Echocardiogram question

[Paleowoman]

Does anyone know if caffeinated drinks like strong coffee, or even something like a recent meal, can affect measurements such as pressure gradient on echocardiogram ?
I’ve never seen anywhere that one should or should not do specific preparation for echocardiogram but am still curious since I know such things can affect blood pressure.

 

[zee112]

I'm sure if it was a known fact then the hospital would have informed you as a precaution. Don't worry.

 

[Paleowoman]

Thanks for your reply Zee. I'm not worried, just curious !

 

[Eva]

In my case, caffeinated drinks show more unharmful PVCs, but do not have effect on measurement. Measurements results change from one technician to another. My left atrium size is different from one test to another. My cardio assured me not to worry! He explained that though all techs are taught how to measure and where to start measuring, yet some start measuring from above or b low the main point!

 

[Paleowoman]

I’'ve always had the same technician on the same machine do my echos, but now he’s retired and the hospital only has locum technicians at the moment. My cardiologist isn’'t happy about the locums so he’'s arranging for the cardiologist who did my stress echo last May, who’'s an expert in echocrdiography, to do the next echo in November, so at least I know I should have some continuity.

 

[Eva]

Keep us posted. Hope all will be well.