They do sedate you for an echocardiogram.
For a transesophageal echocardiogram or TEE you will require sedation through a local anesthesia to relax you and also numb your throat.
You will also be given medication through an IV and a throat spray or gel during the TEE echocardiogram.
For many other echocardiograms you may instead be given a liquid sedative to swallow within 20 minutes to 45 minutes before the echocardiogram test.
When having an echocardiogram you should plan on spending at least 3.5 hours in the hospital for the echocardiogram and will will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the echocardiogram.
You should also not eat anything or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the echocardiogram test.
To stay calm during the echocardiogram you should close your eyes and imagine that the echocardiogram is going smoothly with the results coming back normal.
You can also visualize the medical staff being friendly and supportive throughout the process.
Being able to envision a positive outcome from the echocardiogram can help you ease your fears and put you into a much more happier and optimistic frame of mind.
The echocardiogram often takes between 15 minutes to 60 minutes and you normally are able to go home soon afterwards.