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]
Stress 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]
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]
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]
