An echocardiogram is a diagnostic test, similar to an ultrasound, that is used to produce images of the heart. The procedure is used to observe how well the heart is able to pump blood and to look for signs of heart disease, as well as monitor certain heart conditions and determine the necessary course of treatment. When a doctor orders an echocardiogram, it can be frightening if someone is unfamiliar with the procedure. Here is what to expect during the test.
An echocardiogram is a type of non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart to aid in diagnosing various types of heart diseases and defects, check for structural issues in the heart and monitor the heart’s ability to pump blood. The test also gives insight as to how the heart valves are functioning.
The procedure requires no prior preparation. Before the test begins, patients are given a hospital gown to change into. They will then lay down on an examination table, and the echocardiographer will place a small amount of gel onto the chest and attach electrodes onto certain areas of the chest. The transducer, a small wand which produces the sound waves needed to get images of the heart, is placed upon and moved around on the chest. The echocardiographer will ask the patient to change positions and take several deep breaths during the duration of the procedure to get images of the heart from various angles. The test is usually done in half an hour, but in some cases, it can take up to an hour to complete.
The echocardiographer will occasionally have to press down with the transducer during the procedure; this is necessary to produce clearer images and results in a mild amount of pressure that can be slightly uncomfortable. If patients find themselves feeling very uncomfortable, they should mention it to the echocardiographer. The test, however, is painless.
Echocardiograms are safe. The procedure does not use radiation as other imaging tests do, and it is non-invasive. There are no known risks or side effects to the test.
Patients can resume their normal activities following the test. Results usually come back in a short amount of time, and doctors will thoroughly go over the details of the results. If there is any cause for concern in the results, the doctor may order additional tests. Further testing will likely not be needed if there are no significant findings.
An echocardiogram is a painless, non-invasive test that uses sound waves to produce clear images of the heart for examination. It is used to check the heart and heart valves, diagnose a variety of heart diseases and check for any abnormalities in the heart’s structure. More tests may be ordered if any results are concerning.
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