What is an ECHO or ECHOCARDIOGRAM?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound that uses sound waves to image your heart. This test has no x-rays and is completely safe for pregnant patients. At the Salem Clinic we do two different exams, an echocardiogram and a stress echocardiogram.
How is it performed?
Echocardiogram = A clear gel is applied to your chest and a small transducer is placed over your chest to image your heart. You will be lying on your back and left side during this procedure. It is a completely painless exam. Your echocardiogram will take approximately 1 hour to complete.
Stress echocardiogram = You will have an echocardiogram right before and after you walk on a treadmill. This will increase your heart rate and blood pressure so that it can be monitored. A clear gel is applied to your chest and a small transducer is placed over your chest to image your heart. You will be lying on your back and left side during this procedure. It is a completely painless exam. Your stress echocardiogram test will take 1.5 hours to complete.
What is the prep for my exam?
Echocardiogram = There is no preparation before your exam. You may eat and drink your regular diet. You will need to remove your clothing from the waist up and put on a gown before your procedure. A highly trained cardiac sonographer will perform your exam.
Stress echocardiogram = Please do not eat or drink for at least 2 hours before your test and check with your doctor regarding any heart medication you may be taking; you will not be able to take any beta blockers the day of your appointment. Please do not smoke 4 hours prior to your appointment. To make your exam more comfortable please wear loose, comfortable clothing including walking or tennis shoes for your test on the treadmill. Showering before your appointment is suggested because you will not be allowed to shower after your appointment. A highly trained cardiac sonographer will perform your exam.
How will I get my results?
Echocardiogram = Your physician will contact you in the normal way they usually contact you with test results.
Stress echocardiogram = Your physician will contact you in the normal way they usually contact you with test results.
To ensure you make it to your ECHO appointment on time:
• You will schedule your ECHO appointment through our main clinic radiology desk.
• You will then check-in for your appointment at the Inland Shores location at 5900 Inland Shores Way inKeizer, Oregon.
• Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in. You will check in at our LAB/X-RAY/ECHO desk at Inland Shores.
• Be sure to sign in on the clip board if there is not a staff member at the desk.
