Scheduled for an echocardiogram? Find out what you can expect.

A medical test known as an echocardiogram uses sound waves to create images of the heart’s pumping action and beating. It’s commonly performed by doctors to check for signs of heart disease. Aside from being used to diagnose a heart condition, it can also be used to monitor the development of a baby’s birth defect.

Prior to the Test

Your instructions regarding the procedure and the type of echocardiogram that you’re having performed will vary depending on the procedure that you’re having performed.

For instance, if you’re having a stress echocardiogram, you should avoid eating and exercising for a couple of hours before the procedure. Wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes are also recommended.

A transesophageal echocardiogram is a test that uses a device that’s placed directly down your esophagus to take images of your heart. Before the procedure, you’ll be given sedating medication. You should also arrange to get a ride home once the medication has been taken.

The procedure is usually performed without any prior preparations.

During the Echocardiogram

A cardiac echogram is a type of medical procedure that’s performed in hospitals and doctor’s offices. During the procedure, the technician will dim the lights of your examining table to help them see the images on your screen. They then attach electrodes to various parts of your body to monitor and translate the readings.

A few things to remember during your echocardiogram:

During a medical procedure, a loud whooshing sound is often heard from the machine as it records the blood flow through the heart.

Follow the instructions given by the technician. You may also be asked to take deep breaths while the machine is taking images of your heart.

The machine’s transducer will have a lubricant on its surface to help it glide smoothly across your skin. However, this can be uncomfortable.

In the case of a transesophageal echocardiogram, your throat you will be numbed and you may even be sedated.

After the Echocardiogram

Your doctor will review your test results and talk to you about them in detail. He or she will then recommend a course of action based on the severity of your condition and the nature of the issue. If the results are inconclusive, your doctor may order further testing.

At Tampa Cardiovascular Associates, our doctors use the latest equipment and techniques to diagnose and treat patients. If you are a patient who would benefit from a simple echocardiogram test, call (813) 975-2800 to schedule an appointment. www.tampacardio.com.