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]
Echocardiogram
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]
How to prepare for an echocardiogram
An echocardiogram (ECG) is a test performed to assess a patient’s heart health. It may be included in the annual physical exam or performed when a patient complains of symptoms associated with heart disease, such as heart palpitations, chest pain, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. An ECG is a type of ultrasound test that shows the valves and chambers of the heart as well as the flow of blood through it. The test requires minimal preparation. If you have an upcoming ECG test, here’s ... [Read More]
What is an abnormal echocardiogram?
Your heart is one of the most important organs in the body. If your heart is having issues, it must be diagnosed and treated quickly to ensure you don’t have long-term effects on your health. One of the most common diagnostic tests used to check the heart is an echocardiogram. Similar to an ultrasound, it utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the heart. Unlike other diagnostic tests, the echocardiogram is painless and does not make use of radiation. The results of an ... [Read More]
Benefits of getting an echocardiogram
If you go to your doctor for chest pain or breathing issues and your heart murmur is strong, you may be asked to get an echocardiogram done. It is a diagnostic tool for patients who may have heart problems. An echocardiogram can reveal a lot about your heart and cardiovascular health. An echocardiogram produces an image of your heart using sound waves. Therefore, it is essentially an ultrasound of the heart. Through it, a doctor can identify abnormalities and diseases that are affecting your ... [Read More]
