[vc_row el_class=”blue_bg”][vc_column width=”2/3″ el_class=”white_box”][vc_empty_space height=”30px”][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” font_container=”tag:h3|font_size:35px|text_align:left|color:%2312223d|line_height:40px” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”3/4″][vc_column_text el_class=”inner_content_box unlink_list”]An echocardiogram (echo) is an imaging test. It helps your doctor evaluate your heart. This test:
- Is safe and painless.
- Can be done in a hospital, test center, or doctor’s office.
- Bounces harmless sound waves (ultrasound) off the heart. A transducer (device that looks like a microphone) is used.
- Helps show the size of your heart. It also helps show the health of the heart’s chambers and valves.
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Before Your Echo
- Discuss any questions or concerns you have with your doctor.
- Mention any over-the-counter or prescription medications, herbs, or supplements you’re taking.
- Allow extra time for checking in.
- Wear a two-piece outfit for the test. You may be asked to remove clothing and jewelry from the waist up. If so, you’ll be given a short hospital gown.
During Your Echo
- Most echo tests take 10-20 minutes.
- Small pads (electrodes) are placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat.
- A transducer coated with cool gel is moved firmly over your chest. This device creates the sound waves that make images of your heart.
- At times, you may be asked to exhale and hold your breath for a few seconds. Air in your lungs can affect the images.
- The transducer may also be used to do a Doppler study. This test measures the direction and speed of blood flowing through the heart. During the test, you may hear a “whooshing” sound. This is the sound of blood flowing through the heart.
- The images of your heart are stored on a computer or recorded on video. This is so your doctor can review them later.
After Your Echo
- Return to normal activity unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
- Be sure to keep follow-up appointments.
Your Test Results
Your doctor will discuss your test results with you during a future office visit. The test results help the doctor plan your treatment and any other tests that are needed.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″ el_class=”darkred_box”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1470250659443{background-color: #bf1e2d !important;}”][vc_row el_class="iconz padding-top" css=".vc_custom_1470250069801{background-color: #bf1e2d !important;}"][vc_column width="1/2"][vc_column_text el_class="icon_box icon-box border-right border-bottom"]
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