An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. It helps doctors check how well your heart pumps blood, how its valves work and whether there are any problems with its structure. The test is also called an echo heart test or heart ultrasound.
Your doctor may recommend an echocardiogram if you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or an unusual heartbeat. It can also help monitor an existing heart condition and check how well treatment is working.
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that shows your heart as it beats. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart chambers, valves and nearby blood vessels.
During the test, a small device called a transducer sends sound waves towards your heart. These waves bounce back from the heart structures and return to the device. A computer uses the signals to create moving images that your doctor can examine.
If you are wondering what an echo test is in medical terms, it is a non-invasive test that helps assess the structure and function of your heart. The standard echocardiogram does not use X-rays or expose you to radiation.
Your doctor may recommend an echocardiogram to understand the cause of your symptoms or check your heart health. It can help identify problems that affect how your heart works.
An echocardiogram may be recommended if you have:
Doctors may also use an echo heart test to monitor an existing condition, assess heart function after a heart attack or check your heart before or after certain procedures.
An echocardiogram provides information about your heart's size, shape, pumping strength and blood flow. It can help detect several heart conditions, including:
The type of echocardiogram you need depends on your symptoms and the information your doctor wants to obtain.
1. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE)
This is the most common type of echo test. A healthcare professional moves an ultrasound probe over your chest to take pictures of your heart. It is usually painless and does not require any instruments to enter your body.
2. Transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
This test provides more detailed images of certain heart structures. A thin, flexible tube with an ultrasound probe is guided through your mouth into your oesophagus, which lies behind the heart. You are usually given a throat-numbing medicine and sedation to help you feel comfortable.
3. Stress echocardiogram
This test shows how your heart works when it is under stress. Images are taken before and after exercise, usually on a treadmill or stationary bicycle. If you cannot exercise, your doctor may use medicine to make your heart work harder.
4. Doppler echocardiogram
This technique measures the speed and direction of blood flow through your heart and blood vessels. It helps doctors assess blood flow and identify problems such as leaking or narrowed heart valves.
5. Foetal echocardiogram
This test uses ultrasound to examine the heart of an unborn baby. It may be recommended when a doctor needs to check for a possible heart problem before birth.
The echocardiogram process depends on the type of test you are having. A standard transthoracic echocardiogram usually follows these steps:
A standard echocardiogram usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes. The test is generally painless, although you may feel slight pressure from the probe.
Most people do not need special preparation for a standard echocardiogram. You can usually eat, drink and take your medicines as normal. However, follow your doctor's instructions, as preparation may differ for other types of echo tests.
If you are having a transoesophageal echocardiogram, you may need to avoid food and drinks for several hours beforehand. A stress echocardiogram may also require you to avoid caffeine or adjust certain medicines.
After the test, you can usually return to your normal activities. If you have received sedation for a transoesophageal echocardiogram, you will need someone to take you home and follow the advice given by your healthcare team.
Your doctor will review the images and explain the findings. The results may show that your heart's structure and function appear normal, or they may identify a problem that needs further testing, monitoring or treatment.
An abnormal result does not always mean you have a serious heart condition. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history and other test results before deciding what to do next.
No. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart and assess its structure and function. An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical activity of your heart and helps check its rate and rhythm.
A standard echocardiogram does not directly show blockages in the coronary arteries. However, a stress echocardiogram may reveal changes in how the heart muscle works when blood flow is reduced. Your doctor may recommend other tests to check for blocked arteries.
Yes. An echocardiogram can help detect heart failure by showing how well your heart pumps and fills with blood. However, doctors use your symptoms, examination and other test results to make a diagnosis.
A standard echocardiogram is usually painless. You may feel slight pressure as the probe moves across your chest. Other types, such as a transoesophageal echocardiogram, may cause temporary throat discomfort.
A standard echocardiogram usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Other types may take longer, depending on the procedure and the images required.
Usually, no. You can generally eat and drink as normal before a standard echocardiogram. You may need to fast before a transoesophageal echocardiogram or follow specific instructions for a stress test.
Yes. A standard echocardiogram is generally safe during pregnancy because it uses sound waves rather than radiation. A foetal echocardiogram can also be used to examine an unborn baby's heart when needed. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate test based on your needs.
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