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]
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Interpreting Your Results After an Echocardiogram
If your recent checkup uncovered a possible heart issue, your internist may have ordered an echocardiogram. This is an ultrasound of the heart, showing real-time video of its function and structure just like an ultrasound of a fetus during a pregnancy. Note that this is different than an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), which is a graph-like tracking of a heart’s rhythm. An echocardiogram is performed to monitor your heart and valves for issues such as infection or heart disease. Your internal ... [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]
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]
