What is Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram, often called an "echo," is a painless ultrasound test that creates moving pictures of your heart. Using sound waves instead of radiation, this test produces detailed images that show your heart's structure, including the chambers, valves, and surrounding blood vessels. Think of it as similar to the ultrasound used during pregnancy, but focused on examining your heart. The test allows your cardiologist to see how well your heart is pumping blood and whether all parts of your heart are working properly.
Why is it Performed?
Doctors order echocardiograms for many reasons. You might need one if you're experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeats, or swelling in your legs. The test can diagnose heart valve problems, heart failure, congenital heart defects, blood clots, fluid around the heart, and damage from a heart attack. It's also used to monitor known heart conditions over time and assess how well treatments are working. Many patients receive echocardiograms as part of routine cardiac care, especially if they have risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes.
What to Expect
During a standard echocardiogram, you'll lie on an examination table, usually on your left side. A technician will place small electrodes on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm, then apply a cool gel to your chest. Using a transducer (a hand-held device about the size of a computer mouse), the technician will press gently against your chest at various angles to capture images of your heart from different perspectives. You may be asked to breathe in certain ways or briefly hold your breath to get clearer images. The test is completely painless, though you might feel slight pressure from the transducer. The procedure typically takes 30-45 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward.
Preparing for Your Test
A standard echocardiogram requires no special preparation. You can eat and drink normally before the test and continue taking all your regular medications. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with a top that's easy to remove, as you'll need to undress from the waist up (a gown will be provided). You may want to avoid applying lotions or oils to your chest on the day of the test, as these can interfere with the ultrasound gel and electrode adhesion.
Understanding Your Results
Your cardiologist will review the images and measurements from your echocardiogram to evaluate several key factors: your ejection fraction (the percentage of blood pumped out with each heartbeat), valve function, chamber sizes, heart muscle thickness, and overall pumping strength. Normal results indicate your heart is functioning well with no structural problems. Abnormal findings might reveal valve disease, weakened heart muscle, abnormal heart chamber sizes, or fluid accumulation. Your doctor will explain what the findings mean for your health and discuss any necessary treatment or lifestyle modifications.
Have questions about Echocardiograms? Our experienced cardiology team is here to help. Contact Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists & Primary Care at (203) 334-2100 to schedule your appointment or discuss any concerns.
