Echocardiogram
What is Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a painless, non-invasive ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of the heart to evaluate its structure and function. This test can help diagnose heart conditions like heart failure, valve problems, and issues after a heart attack by showing the heart’s size, pumping strength, valves, and blood flow. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and does not involve radiation.
- $300
What an echocardiogram does
Creates
Images
Uses sound waves to produce a moving picture of the heart, which provides more detail than a standard X-ray.
Assesses
Function
Shows how well the heart chambers, walls, and valves are working and measures the heart’s pumping strength.
Diagnoses
Problems
Helps diagnose conditions such as heart failure, heart valve disease, cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart diseases.
Detects
Issues
Can identify problems like leaky valves (regurgitation), narrow valves (stenosis), and blood clots.
Evaluates
Blood Flow
A Doppler echocardiogram can evaluate the motion and speed of blood as it moves through the heart and blood vessels.
How the test is performed
- A technician applies gel to your chest.
- A small device called a transducer is moved across your chest to capture images of the heart.
- Electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm during the test.
- You will be asked to lie still and may need to hold your breath for short periods.
- The test is painless, although you may feel some pressure from the transducer.
- A standard echocardiogram (transthoracic) takes about 30 to 60 minutes, though the time can vary.
What to expect afterward:
Most people can return to their normal activities immediately after a standard test.