Echocardiogram Specialist

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is a painless and non-invasive test that creates moving images of your heart and blood vessels. It uses sound wave technology to create images. 

Your provider may recommend the test to get a better look at the function and structure of your heart and check for heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or a problem with one of your heart valves.

What information does an echocardiogram provide?

The echocardiogram provides information related to the structures in your heart and how it functions. With an echocardiogram, your provider can:

• Assess the size of your heart
• Determine how strongly your heart is pumping
• Look for holes in your heart
• See how well your heart valves open and close
• Find blood clots or tumors

The echocardiogram can also determine the extent of heart damage after a heart attack or the underlying cause of your heart murmur.

How do I prepare for an echocardiogram?

The team at Levine Heart & Wellness provides specific instructions on what you need to do to prepare for your echocardiogram. 

In most cases, you don’t need to make any special preparations or changes to your usual routine. You can eat and take your medication as you usually would unless recommended otherwise.

However, you may be advised to wear comfortable clothing that allows you to take your shirt off.

What can I expect during an echocardiogram?

Levine Heart & Wellness performs your echocardiogram at the office, and it shouldn’t take longer than an hour. 

Before your test begins, you may need to change out of your shirt and into a gown. You lie on the examination table, and electrodes are attached to various spots on your chest and hooked up to an electrocardiogram (EKG) to monitor the electrical activity in your heart.

Your provider applies a special gel to your chest and moves the transducer wand across your chest to produce the desired images. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort at all during the test, and the lights may be dimmed to make it easier to see the images on the computer monitor.

Once the test is complete, you can resume your usual activities. The team at Levine Heart & Wellness schedules a follow-up appointment to review the results of your echocardiogram and your treatment plan.

To learn more about the echocardiogram and whether the test would benefit you, call Levine Heart & Wellness or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.