Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Aamer Nadeem Chaudhary, M.B.B.S., D.M.R.D., F.C.P.S. (Diagnostic Radiology) — Consultant, Al-Nasar Lab & Diagnostic Centre · Updated June 2026.
Quick answer: These three heart tests do different jobs. An ECG records your heart’s electrical rhythm in seconds. An echocardiography (echo) is an ultrasound that shows the heart’s structure and how well it pumps. An ETT (stress test) checks how your heart copes under exercise. Your doctor chooses based on your symptoms. Al-Nasar Lab in Lahore offers all three.
What is an ECG?
An ECG (electrocardiogram) records the electrical signals of your heartbeat using small stickers on your chest. It’s quick, painless and takes only a few minutes — used to check heart rhythm, detect irregular beats (arrhythmia) and look for signs of a previous or ongoing heart attack.
What is an echocardiography (echo)?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It produces live images of the heart’s chambers, valves and pumping strength (ejection fraction) — used to assess heart failure, valve disease and structural problems. No radiation, completely painless.
What is an ETT (Exercise Tolerance Test)?
An ETT or stress test records your ECG while you walk on a treadmill, so doctors can see how your heart performs under exertion. It helps detect reduced blood flow to the heart (coronary artery disease) that may not show at rest.
ECG vs Echo vs ETT
| Test | What it checks | How |
|---|---|---|
| ECG | Heart rhythm & electrical activity | Chest electrodes, at rest, ~5 min |
| Echo | Heart structure & pumping | Ultrasound probe, ~20-30 min |
| ETT | Heart under exercise (blood flow) | ECG while on a treadmill |
Which heart test do you need?
Your doctor decides based on your symptoms: palpitations or irregular beats often start with an ECG; breathlessness or suspected valve/pump problems need an echo; chest pain on exertion is assessed with an ETT. Often they’re used together.
Heart tests at Al-Nasar Lab
Al-Nasar Lab offers ECG, echocardiography and ETT under one roof in Johar Town, Lahore, with experienced staff and same-day reports. For advanced imaging we also offer cardiac MRI and CT coronary angiography.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an ECG and an echo?
An ECG records the heart’s electrical rhythm; an echo is an ultrasound that shows the heart’s structure and pumping. They check different things and are often done together.
Is an ETT (stress test) safe?
Yes, it’s performed under supervision and stopped if you feel unwell. Tell staff about any chest pain, dizziness or breathlessness during the test.
Do these heart tests use radiation?
No. ECG, echo and ETT use no radiation. Echo uses safe ultrasound waves.
Which test do I need for chest pain?
Chest pain on exertion is often assessed with an ETT, sometimes alongside an ECG and echo. Your doctor will advise based on your symptoms.
Related reading: MRI vs CT Scan
Need an ECG, echo or stress test in Lahore? Book at Al-Nasar Lab — same-day reports. Book on WhatsApp or call 0300 0341944.
