Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is a noninvasive diagnostic test that assesses heart health and function. Cyrus Medical Office in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, offers many in-house outpatient procedures, including echocardiograms. Golali Nejati, MD, and the team offer this test to diagnose heart conditions and monitor treatment for heart disease. To learn more about echocardiograms, call the New York City office or request an appointment online today. 

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is a noninvasive ultrasound test that assesses the structure and function of your heart. 

During the test, your provider places a special tool on your chest called a transducer. The transducer emits sound waves into your body, which then bounce off your organs and back to the transducer.

The sound waves are sent to a computer, which translates the information into live-action images.

Echocardiograms assess many different parameters of the heart, including strength, function, and structure. 

Why would I need an echocardiogram?

During your appointment, Dr. Nejati explains why you need an echocardiogram. 

You may benefit from an echocardiogram if you have symptoms that indicate heart disease, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Arrhythmias
• Chest pain

You may also need an echocardiogram if you have a heart condition, such as heart failure, an arrhythmia, or congenital heart disease that requires monitoring. 

Dr. Nejati may also recommend an echocardiogram if the results of your in-office electrocardiogram (EKG) were inconclusive. 

How do I prepare for an echocardiogram?

At your initial consultation, Dr. Nejati discusses the steps you need to take to prepare for your echocardiogram. In most cases, you don’t need to make any changes to your usual routine.

However, it’s important to share your medical history with Dr. Nejati before you have the test. This includes the types of medications and supplements you take, as well as any prior heart health history. 

What happens during an echocardiogram?

Your echocardiogram is an in-office procedure. Before the test, you change into an exam gown. Then, the echocardiogram technician places a special gel on your skin to improve the transducer’s conduction. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort during your echocardiogram.

The entire test takes 30 minutes or less. 

What happens after an echocardiogram?

There’s no downtime following an echocardiogram, and you can resume your usual activities afterward unless otherwise directed. 

Dr. Nejati may review the results of your test on the day of the procedure or schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss findings and your treatment options. 

For comprehensive care from an experienced and compassionate team, call Cyrus Medical Office or request an appointment online today.