An echocardiogram is a popular test that is prescribed to assess the health of a patient’s heart. As a type of ultrasound test that shows the chamber and walls of the heart and the flow of the blood through it, an echocardiogram is prescribed by a primary care doctor to check for any problems with the heart. An echocardiogram can even detect congenital heart defects before birth.
If you have an upcoming echocardiogram and are wondering what you should do to prepare for it, this article is for you. In this article, we’ll walk you through preparation tips for different types of echocardiograms.
Preparing For an Echocardiogram
Typically, preparation needs for an echocardiogram depend on the specific type. An echocardiogram can have several variations, including:
- Transthoracic echocardiogram
- Transesophageal echocardiogram
- Stress echocardiogram
Let’s talk about how you can prepare for these echocardiograms.
Preparing for a Transthoracic Echocardiogram
No special preparations are required for a standard transthoracic echocardiogram. You are allowed to eat and drink as you eat and drink normally. Plus, there is no restriction on taking any medications and supplements. You can wear anything you like before going for a transthoracic echocardiogram.
Preparing For a Transesophageal Echocardiogram
Since this type of echocardiogram takes pictures from the inside of the chest, you must inform your doctor about any problem with the esophagus, swallowing problems, sleep apnea, anxiety, pain, and IV drug use.
Because you will be sedated for the test, you must find someone who can drive you home after the test. Also, you must not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the transesophageal test.
Your doctor will also advise you on how to take your medications. Usually, it’s advised to take medication at your usual time with a small sip of water, but your doctor will likely alter the dose of any diabetes medications.
For this test, you must wear comfortable clothing. You will also likely change into a hospital gown before your transesophageal echocardiogram procedure begins.
Preparing For a Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echocardiogram test requires more preparation than any other echocardiogram. The instructions are usually provided by your doctor and often include:
- Not drinking or eating anything for at least 4 hours before the stress echocardiogram test – you may be allowed to drink water.
- Avoiding caffeine and over-the-counter pain medications for 24 hours before the test
- Avoiding smoking on the day of the test.
Your doctor will also instruct you on how to take your usual medications and may advise you to avoid your heart medications. They will likely change the dose of any diabetes medications as well.
Even though you are not sedated for the test, you may feel tired after the test, so it’s recommended to ask someone to drive you home. Moreover, it’s important to wear comfortable clothes because during the test, as you’ll need to walk or ride a stationary bike.
Echocardiograms in Irmo, SC
If you think you or your loved one is having any heart-related symptoms, consult our highly-trained healthcare providers at SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation. We offer state-of-the-art diagnostic tests, including echocardiograms, to diagnose your problem and get you started on the road to treatment and recovery.
If you have any questions for our provider or would like to schedule an appointment or an echocardiogram, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (803) 749-1111 or by filling out our appointment request form now.
