Echocardiogram & Vascular Ultrasound Instructions
Preparing for Your Test: What to Expect
An echocardiogram and vascular ultrasound are non-invasive procedures that use high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart and blood vessels. These tests do not require significant preparation, but for specific tests like the Echocardiogram Stress Test or Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound, patients should avoid food and caffeine for four hours prior.
During the procedure, a transducer is placed on the skin to capture images, and patients may hear their blood flow as a pulsing or whooshing sound. The test is safe, and patients can resume normal activities immediately after.
There are no associated risks or side effects with vascular ultrasounds, making them a reliable and non-invasive diagnostic tool.