Combining the versatility of sound wave technology with the precision of the electrocardiogram (EKG), an echocardiogram is an essential diagnostic tool whose purposes go beyond merely providing real-time images of your heart. An echocardiogram shows your cardiologist how your heart looks and behaves as well as uncovers signs of potential structural abnormalities and disease. An echocardiogram provides your doctor with detailed information of the size and shape of your heart and the thickness ... [Read More]
Echocardiogram
How Are Echocardiograms Performed
An echocardiogram (echo test) is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that uses electrodes to monitor your heart rhythm and high-frequency sound waves to capture three-dimensional images of the heart. Echocardiograms are used for detecting heart problems, such as damaged cardiac tissue, problems with the heart valves, weakened heart muscles, heart enlargement, among several others. If you have strong risk factors for heart disease or are already showing symptoms thereof, such as chest pains and ... [Read More]
Types of Echocardiograms
An echocardiogram, also referred to as echo or echocardiography, is a type of routine examination for evaluating how well your heart’s chambers and valves are pumping blood. This test is recommended for people who are showing symptoms of heart problems, such as chest pains, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath. There are different types of echocardiograms, each of which uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the heart and its structures and reveal abnormalities and ... [Read More]
Why Your Doctor Ordered an Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a specialized type of ultrasound that displays real-time images of the heart via sound waves. The “-cardi-” root word indicates that this technology is specifically designed to evaluate the heart. Patients appreciate the fact that ultrasound, including that used in an echocardiogram, utilizes no radiation of any kind. Through this test, your doctor can diagnose heart conditions with accuracy. If you’ve recently visited your doctor to consult about your symptoms, they may ... [Read More]
Echocardiograms for Heart Valve Disease
A patient with heart valve disease has a malfunctioning heart valve and is likely experiencing symptoms associated with the condition, such as chest pain, a strong heart murmur, shortness of breath, feeling tired or fatigued, and fainting spells. A heart valve issue needs to be evaluated by a doctor. There are complications associated with heart valve disease that include heart failure, blood clots, and stroke. If you visit the doctor complaining of chest pain and difficulty breathing and they ... [Read More]
