What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is a diagnostic imaging test that looks at your heart. Commonwealth Vein Center is a state-of-the-art vascular, vein, and wound practice that provides echocardiograms to assess heart health and diagnose heart disease.

During an echocardiogram, your provider uses an ultrasound wand to evaluate the size and shape of your heart, examine how your heart works, and look for abnormalities.

Who needs an echocardiogram?

Your provider at Commonwealth Vein Center or your primary care provider may recommend an echocardiogram if you have symptoms that might suggest heart problems. These symptoms may include chest pain or shortness of breath.

The echocardiogram helps the Commonwealth Vein Center team confirm or rule out heart conditions such as:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Valvular disease

• Myocardial disease (heart attack)

• Pericardial disease

• Infective endocarditis

• Cardiac mass or tumor

• Congenital abnormalities

You may also need an echocardiogram if you have a heart condition and the team wants to reevaluate your heart after implementing a cardiac treatment program.

How do I prepare for an echocardiogram?

The Commonwealth Vein Center team provides specific instructions on what steps you need to take to prepare for your echocardiogram. In most cases, there’s no need for any special preparation.

You can eat, drink, and take your medications like normal. The team, however, requests you wear comfortable clothing to the procedure and leave all valuables at home. 

What happens during an echocardiogram?

Before your echocardiogram, your provider at Commonwealth Vein Center explains what you can expect during your test in detail. Commonwealth Vein Center performs your echocardiogram at an echo lab. 

After changing into an exam gown, you sit on the echocardiogram table, and the ultrasound technician places electrocardiogram (EKG) sensors on your chest. The EKG measures your heart’s electrical activity during your echo.

You lie back, and the technician places the ultrasound wand on your chest to get the desired images. Your provider may perform an arterial Doppler during your ultrasound, which assesses blood flow through your heart. 

The test takes about 40 minutes, and you can resume your usual activities afterward. Your provider reviews the images from your echo and schedules a follow-up appointment to discuss the findings and potential treatments. 

To learn more about the echocardiogram at Commonwealth Vein Center, call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.