An echocardiogram harnesses ultrasound to create detailed images of the heart in a three-dimensional format. Also called an “echo,” this test is done only to evaluate the heart.
Just like a pregnant woman will have an ultrasound for the doctor to see images of the baby, a heart patient will have an echocardiogram ultrasound for the doctor to see images of the heart. Note that this is a different test than an electrocardiogram (EKG).
There are many benefits of this type of scan from a patient’s perspective, including the fact that you do not have to fast beforehand. Plus, there is no radiation, because it is done via ultrasound (sound wave) technology.
A doctor can use an echocardiogram to evaluate how your heart is pumping blood, and the way in which it is pumping. These images can easily reveal the presence of heart disease.
Different Types of Echocardiograms
There are several types of echocardiograms for evaluating the heart in different ways, including the following:
Doppler Echocardiogram
In this type of echocardiogram, ultrasound waves change pitch via Doppler technology when they encounter blood cells that are moving through your heart and blood vessels. It is these changes that allow a doctor to measure the speed and direction of the blood flowing through the heart.
Stress Echocardiogram
Some heart conditions only reveal themselves during physical exertion. Ultrasound images of your heart will be gathered before and after riding a stationary bike or walking on a treadmill.
If you cannot exercise for the test, the doctor will inject a medication into your bloodstream that will cause your heart to mump vigorously, as though you were exercising. The echocardiogram can then be performed to evaluate your heart health and coronary arteries. This test cannot reveal any blockages in the blood vessels, but it can reveal any awkward flowing or pumping of the blood.
Transthoracic Echocardiogram
This is the standard echocardiogram that is typically performed, and it is done similarly to a pregnancy ultrasound. The technician applies gel onto the transducer, and the transducer is placed on your chest over your heart. This then records the echoes of the heart and displays it in real-time video onto a computer monitor.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram
Similar to an endoscopy, your throat will first be numbed so you do not feel discomfort. A long and flexible tube with an ultrasound transducer will be placed down your throat and into your esophagus, and the technician is then able to capture ultrasound images of your heart.
Family Medical Clinic in Midlands, SC
Echocardiograms have come a long way over the last few years. An echocardiogram will need to be done if you have any type of undiagnosed heart condition or have symptoms of heart disease. Once your condition is diagnosed, it can be treated by a skilled medical doctor.
Contact our friendly medical team at SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced physicians. You can call us at (803) 749-1111 or request an appointment online now, and let us help you put your heart at ease.
