An echocardiogram is a type of diagnostic test that uses sound waves to create a visual representation of the heart live and in action, pumping and beating. It can be performed by your doctor or a technician in the office if it is suspected that something is amiss with your heart’s valves or if you have other conditions that affect its function. It can also be used to check for the development of heart disease.

Before the Echocardiogram

Your echocardiogram instructions may vary depending on the type of test that you’re having performed.

For instance, if you’re having a stress echocardiogram, you should avoid eating for a couple of hours before the procedure. Also, make sure that you’re wearing comfortable clothes and good quality well fitted walking shoes.

Transesophageal echocardiograms are performed using an ultrasound transducer that’s placed directly down your esophagus. During the procedure, you’ll be given sedating medication. In order to avoid driving, you should arrange to get a ride home after the test.

A transesophageal echocardiogram is a type of test that uses an ultrasound transducer that’s placed directly down your esophagus. During the procedure, you’ll be given sedating medication. You will need a driver for this procedure as well.

No preparation is needed for transthoracic echocardiograms, which are performed when the images are taken directly from the heart.

During the Echocardiogram

Echocardiograms, sometimes simply called “echos” for short, are performed in both hospitals and some doctors’ offices. After changing into a gown, you’ll lie down on an examining table and the technician will dim the lights – this helps them to better see the images on their screen. They will also attach electrodes to various locations on your body, which will conduct electrical currents to your heart and monitor and translate the readings.

A few things to remember during your echocardiogram:

Although you may hear a loud whooshing sound during the echocardiogram, it’s not a sign that something is wrong with your heart. The machine is simply recording the flow of blood.

The transducer will have a lubricating lotion on its surface to enable it to glide more smoothly and comfortably across your skin, the technician may have to press firmly at times, and this should not be overly uncomfortable.

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

After the Echocardiogram

After the test, your doctor will analyze the results and talk to you about them in detail. He or she will then recommend a course of treatment depending on the severity of the condition and the findings. If the results of the test are inconclusive, your doctor may order additional tests to check for other conditions.

At Tampa Cardiovascular Associates, we use only the most state-of-the-art equipment and up-to-date diagnostic methods when addressing the concerns of our patients. If you think that you have a condition that might be best detected through a simple echocardiogram test, schedule an appointment with us today by calling (813) 975-2800. Visit www.tampacardio.com to learn more!