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An echocardiogram ("echo") is a test that produces an image of the heart by using harmless high-frequency ultrasound waves.
In this test, ultrasound waves are sent through the body with a hand-held device called a transducer. The sound waves bounce off of the heart and return to the transducer. The transducer then transmits the sound waves (also called echoes) to a computer, which uses the pattern of the waves to create images of your heart.
Your doctor may want you to have an exercise test along with an echocardiogram. This is called an exercise echocardiogram. An exercise echo is sometimes used to view how your heart works under stress. It may help diagnose coronary artery disease (blockage in the blood vessels that supply blood to your heart).
In this test, an echocardiogram is done before, during and immediately after exercise. By comparing the echos your doctor can see if the heart muscle is pumping as it should when you exercise. A decrease in pumping suggests that one or more of the arteries are blocked.
Before your test:
A nuclear stress test shows how well blood flows through your heart and arteries while you are resting and during physical exertion. In this test, a small amount of a radioactive substance is injected into your body. This substance allows images of the heart to be recorded so your doctor can see:
Preparing for your test:
For people with diabetes:
A nuclear stress test usually takes 2 to 3 hours.
This study is useful in detecting the presence and significance of coronary artery disease. The test consists of taking pictures after an isotope injection at rest and pictures after an isotope injection while given the vasodilator, adenosine.
Instructions
Two days before your test (48 hrs.):
On the day of your test:
Please notify us if:
This test is also called a stress electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). It records your heartbeat while you walk on a treadmill. This test helps your doctor evaluate the cause of chest pain. It also measures the strength of your heart after a heart attack or surgery. Don't worry about having to exercise. The test measures your heart, not your athletic ability. It is done in hospitals, test centers, and doctors' offices.
Guidelines to follow prior to your test.
New Mexico Cardiac Care provides cutting-edge heart care from some of the leading cardiologists in the region along with a team of highly experienced providers and techs. We employ the latest techniques in non-surgical treatment of heart disease. Trust us with your heart.