Confusing Experience During Echo Examination: Is This Common?
Greetings. I'm a 21-year-old female, standing at 5'1" and weighing 240 pounds. My medical history, as noted in my patient portal, includes conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, GERD, BRBPR, an elevated heart rate, DOE, Obesity, and Iron deficiency anemia caused by chronic blood loss. My current medications consist of Vyvanse, Pepcid, Iron supplements, Zoloft, and I've also been using NuvaRing. Recently, I underwent a Transthoracic Echocardiogram due to experiencing a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath, particularly during activities like exercising or even playing with my nephew in a bounce house, which left me feeling faint and in need of a significant recovery period before my breathing and heart rate returned to normal. I have been under observation using a Zio Patch as well. Upon arriving for the echo, I was instructed to remove my shirt and lie on the examination table. The doctor proceeded with the procedure by applying gel to the transducer and beginning the scans on my chest, while also operating her computer. I was guided through a series of breathing techniques: short breaths followed by deep ones, ostensibly to help position my lungs for better imaging. This initial phase lasted around 15-20 minutes and was mostly quiet, aside from her reminders to hold my breath. She then indicated that the images weren't sufficient and that I would need to receive a medication to enhance the clarity of my heart images. A nurse came in to place an IV for administering this medication. Unfortunately, the experience was quite painful as he struggled to locate a suitable vein, resulting in discomfort with the needle moving around—which is something I usually find unpleasant, and this particular attempt left a strange bruise surrounding the entry point. After the IV was successfully placed, the doctor injected what I later learned was Difinity into the line. Communication about the procedure was lacking; she hadn’t provided much information as she resumed with the ultrasound. Almost immediately, I started to experience a tightening in my throat and chest, which made me visibly uneasy and caused me to lean back. When she asked about the tightness, I nodded, feeling too suffocated to respond verbally. Pain began to spread throughout my body, accompanied by dizziness and an intense heartbeat. I found myself twisting in discomfort and crying out, overwhelmed by the sensation, shouting "it hurts!" I genuinely felt like I was on the brink of collapse. She reassured me that what I was experiencing was typical and that I needed to remain calm, mentioning that it often feels worse before it gets better. Despite her reassurances, I couldn't help but feel frightened and exhausted as I laid there while she continued the exam by pushing more medication through the IV. This lasted for another ten minutes, during which my limbs felt strangely cold and I broke into a sweat. Eventually, she finished up and asked if I felt any relief before allowing me to dress. She offered no further explanation about my reaction or the procedure, stating that the doctor would reach out with the results. As we walked to the exit, she inquired again about my well-being, and I expressed that while I felt somewhat better, the ordeal was terrifying. She admitted that it was alarming and noted that the experience often feels worse than it actually is. I departed feeling both shocked and drained, recalling the experience as among the most distressing I’ve ever endured. I keep wondering why I wasn't forewarned about the potential side effects. Was her demeanor towards my discomfort too casual? Was my reaction typical? Am I right to be concerned? My feelings of frustration and confusion persist as I try to process everything that happened.
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 3:30:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel confused and distressed after such a challenging experience during your echocardiogram. Let’s address your concerns regarding side effects, communication, and the overall procedure to help clarify things for you.
Main Points:
-
Reactions to Contrast Agents: Your symptoms during the test may be linked to the contrast agent used (in this case, Difinity). It's not uncommon for patients to experience side effects like tightness in the throat, chest discomfort, and anxiety after receiving this medication.
-
Communication & Experience: Your feelings of fear and frustration about the lack of information and the way the procedure was conducted are valid. Patients should be adequately informed about potential side effects, especially when they are experiencing distressing symptoms.
-
Normalizing Your Experience: While your feelings during the procedure were alarming, it’s important to know that experiencing discomfort or anxiety during an echocardiogram with contrast is not unusual. However, communication is key, and it should be improved for future procedures.
Explanation:
The echocardiogram you underwent involved using a contrast agent to improve the image quality of your heart, especially given your symptoms of a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath. The reactions you experienced—tightness, pain, dizziness—can occur with contrast agents, especially if a patient is anxious or if it is a new experience for them.
The doctor and nurse should be able to explain what to expect and provide reassurance before, during, and after the procedure. It's vital for healthcare providers to communicate openly about procedures, especially when using medications that can cause discomfort or unexpected reactions.
Next Steps:
-
Post-Procedure Monitoring: Continue to monitor how you feel physically and emotionally after the echocardiogram. If the discomfort persists or worsens, consider reaching out to your healthcare provider for advice.
-
Communication with Your Healthcare Team: If you haven’t already, contact the office to discuss your experience. Share your feelings about the lack of communication and express any ongoing concerns. It’s important for your comfort and to improve the process for others.
-
Consider Supportive Resources: If feelings of anxiety or distress continue after the experience, it might be helpful to speak with a therapist or counselor, especially given your history of anxiety and depression. Talking through your experience in a supportive environment can help you process these feelings.
-
Future Appointments: For any further procedures, don't hesitate to ask lots of questions beforehand. Inquire about what to expect and express your previous concerns to ensure better communication.
It's completely normal to feel shaken after a distressing medical experience. Remember, your feelings are valid, and seeking clarity and support is always a good path forward. If you need more specific advice or additional support relating to your conditions or reactions, feel free to ask!
Related Questions
Advice Needed for My Toddler's Unexplained Pain
**Background** I have a 2.5-year-old son who is generally healthy, without any known chronic illnesses or symptoms related to cold, flu, or respiratory issues. Lately, he has been experiencing discomfort, specifically complaining about pain on the left side of his head, including his head, eye, cheek, and occasionally his teeth. He often squints with his left eye and has been waking up during the night due to this pain. These symptoms started around three weeks ago. Since then, we've sought care from various specialists: an eye doctor at a children's hospital, a dentist, and our primary care physician. Both the eye doctor and dentist found nothing concerning, clearing him completely. His primary care doctor conducted standard examinations, checking his eyes, ears, throat, heart, and lungs, all yielding normal results. In light of these evaluations, he was prescribed a precautionary round of antibiotics and referred for a head MRI, both with and without contrast, scheduled for the following week. **Current Concern** The hospital could only schedule the MRI for the afternoon of the 18th, meaning results won't be available until the doctor reviews them on the 19th. As of today, I am emotionally drained and extremely worried. This past weekend was particularly challenging; my son struggles to sleep at night due to discomfort, even though he plays and eats normally during the day. However, he has painful episodes that leave him lying on the couch with a washcloth resting on his forehead. It pains me to see him suffer. While he has been taking acetaminophen and ibuprofen, they no longer seem to alleviate his discomfort as effectively as before. The thought of waiting four more days and three more nights feels overwhelming. This morning, I contacted his primary care provider to voice my concerns, but the doctor was unavailable. The nurse basically indicated that we must wait for the MRI results before any new steps can be taken. I am hesitant to take him to the emergency room because I fear the long hour-plus drive could agitate him further, only to receive the same advice: administering Tylenol and suggesting we wait for the scheduled MRI. Now, I find myself seeking any advice or professional insights regarding our situation. **I recognize that this forum cannot provide actual medical recommendations.** I've endeavored to pursue every possible option, but I'm feeling lost on how to assist my son effectively. As a medical professional, do you believe there’s a significant likelihood that the emergency room could provide much-needed help, or is it wiser to remain patient and manage his situation at home? **I understand entirely that the ultimate decision rests with me and that responses from this Reddit community should not replace professional medical counsel.** I’m simply hopeful that someone might share their perspective or experience regarding similar situations.
Unexpected Swelling Behind My Ear
Hello, I’m a 39-year-old Caucasian woman, standing at 5 feet 4 inches and weighing 135 pounds. I used to smoke but quit over fifteen years ago. I have a medical history that includes thyroid cancer and am currently taking Synthroid at a dosage of 100 mg. Recently, a lump appeared unexpectedly behind my ear lobe, where it seems to be attached. This occurred about a week ago. In the past, I’ve experienced cystic acne in that area, although usually further up. The lump is somewhat tender but not excessively painful. I have an appointment with a dermatologist later this week, but I’m reaching out for any thoughts or insights. Given my previous battle with thyroid cancer, I experience health-related anxiety, so any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you in advance for your support!
Confused About Specialist Referrals at 29 Years Old: Seeking Advice
At 29 years old, with a height of 6’1” and weighing 280 pounds, I recently visited my primary care physician regarding a concerning issue near my anus that I suspect might be a fistula. My doctor recommended that I see a gastroenterologist. However, upon discussing this referral on r/analfistula, the community advised me that what I actually need is a colorectal surgeon (CRS). Given my insurance allows me to self-refer, I decided to take the initiative and arrange an appointment with a CRS myself. When I contacted the office of the CRS to make the appointment, they informed me that according to my insurance policy, a referral is still necessary. They went ahead and scheduled the appointment but cautioned me that there was a possibility of it being cancelled due to the lack of a proper referral. In search of clarity, I posted on r/healthinsurance, asking for guidance on this referral situation. The responses made me feel rather foolish for considering direct access to a CRS; many insisted I should stick with the route my doctor provided. Feeling even more conflicted, I returned to r/analfistula for further input and was once again told that a CRS was indeed the specialist I should pursue. Now, I find myself in a predicament, uncertain about which direction to take or who to consult next. I would appreciate any advice on how to proceed with my situation.
Inquiry Regarding MRI Results
A 22-year-old woman, measuring 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 125 pounds, recently underwent a pelvic MRI. The findings revealed a mild thickening in the peritoneum noted specifically within the cul-de-sac, characterized as T2 hypointense. This outcome is relatively common and may indicate superficial endometriosis or some degree of general scarring. Importantly, there were no indications of deep infiltrating endometriosis. While I understand that these results are not alarming, I struggle with health-related anxiety. Could someone please reassure me that this is nothing to worry about? Thank you!
Seeking Clarity on MRI/MRA Results for My Father, Age 58
Greetings, everyone. I’m reaching out on behalf of my father, who is 58 years old and recently underwent an MRI and MRA of the brain. We just received the findings, and I’m hoping to get some insight from those familiar with these types of reports. **Findings Overview:** - **White Matter Alterations / Small Vessel Disease:** The MRI indicates numerous T2/FLAIR hyperintensities located in both cortical and subcortical areas of the brain, particularly affecting the occipital lobes and the white matter around the ventricles. According to the radiologist, these alterations are likely related to chronic small vessel disease or previous minor vascular events rather than a current stroke. There is no indication of diffusion restriction, which rules out any acute issues. - **Signs of Gliosis and Initial Brain Atrophy:** There are signs of gliosis, meaning there may be scarring in the brain tissue caused by past insults or diminished blood flow, along with mild early-stage cerebral atrophy that may be attributed to his age. - **Ventricular Changes:** The third and lateral ventricles appear slightly enlarged; however, the fourth ventricle remains normal. Additionally, the subarachnoid spaces are normal, and there’s no evidence of any masses, bleeding, or midline shifts. - **Pituitary Region Assessment:** The examination of the sellar/suprasellar region shows no tumors or abnormalities. - **Cerebellum and Brainstem Evaluation:** Both are reported as normal. **Primary Concern - Aneurysm:** The MRA has identified a 7.5 x 7.5 mm saccular aneurysm located on the anterior communicating artery (ACOM). All other major arteries (internal carotid, middle cerebral, anterior cerebral, posterior cerebral, basilar, and vertebral) exhibit normal size and blood flow without any stenosis. **Radiologist’s Summary:** - Chronic alterations due to small vessel issues and gliosis likely from past vascular problems. - Mild early cerebral atrophy noted. - Presence of a 7.5 mm ACOM aneurysm that requires follow-up and further evaluation. I’m left wondering about the implications of a 7.5 mm aneurysm on the ACOM. How serious is this condition? What typically comes next—would it involve monitoring, coiling, or clipping? Should we prioritize a visit to a neurosurgeon, or is this something that can be scheduled without urgency? For anyone who has faced similar findings, I’d appreciate hearing about your experiences. The mention of the aneurysm has understandably made me quite anxious. Thank you in advance for any guidance you can provide!