An echocardiogram is one of the most common heart tests that doctors recommend. If your doctor has suggested echocardiogram testing, it is natural to have questions. What does the test do? Why is it important?
Here are the primary reasons a doctor might order this test.
What Is an Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create moving images of your heart structure. You might hear it referred to as a heart ultrasound. This non-invasive test gives your doctor detailed visuals of your heart’s structure and function.
Echocardiogram testing captures critical information, such as how well your heart pumps blood, the shape and size of your heart chambers, and whether there are any structural abnormalities.
There are several types of echocardiograms, including:
- Transthoracic Echocardiogram – This is the standard type where a handheld device is moved across your chest.
- Transesophageal Echocardiogram – A probe is inserted into your esophagus for a more detailed view of your heart.
- Stress Echocardiogram – The test is conducted while your heart is under stress, often achieved through exercise or medications.
Reasons a Doctor Orders an Echocardiogram Testing
Doctors use echocardiogram testing to evaluate various heart concerns. Below are some of the most common reasons for echocardiogram testing.
1. To Investigate Symptoms of Heart Problems
If you report symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, heart palpitations, or swelling in your legs, your doctor might order an echocardiogram. These symptoms could indicate underlying heart issues.
The test helps determine if your heart is functioning normally or if there are signs of problems such as heart disease or heart failure.
2. To Diagnose Heart Conditions
Doctors often use echocardiograms to diagnose conditions related to the heart. Some conditions that this test can help identify include:
- Valve disorders such as stenosis or regurgitation
- Cardiomyopathy (disease of the heart muscle)
- Congenital heart defects (present from birth)
- Pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart)
- Blood clots within the heart
- Aneurysms (weakened artery walls)
By identifying these issues early, your doctor can develop an effective treatment plan.
3. To Monitor Chronic Heart Conditions
If you have already been diagnosed with a heart condition, echocardiogram testing is often used to monitor your status. For example, it is common for patients with heart valve disease or cardiomyopathy to undergo regular echocardiograms. These tests track changes in your heart’s structure or performance over time.
Monitoring helps ensure treatments, medications, or lifestyle changes are working effectively.
4. To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Treatment or Surgery
After undergoing treatment or heart-related surgery, your doctor may use an echocardiogram to evaluate its success. For example, if you have undergone valve replacement or repair surgery, the test can check how the new valve is functioning.
Similarly, it is often used in patients receiving medication for heart conditions. The results help guide any adjustments to the treatment plan.
5. To Assess Risk Before Surgery
Patients undergoing major surgeries sometimes need an echocardiogram beforehand. This test helps assess the risk of potential heart complications during surgery.
For example, knowing how well your heart functions prepares your surgeon and medical team to take necessary precautions.
What Happens During an Echocardiogram Testing
Echocardiogram testing is painless and non-invasive. A technician applies gel to your chest area and moves a handheld device called a transducer across your skin. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off your heart, creating real-time images on a monitor.
If you are having a transesophageal echocardiogram, you will receive sedation, and the transducer is guided through your esophagus for clearer images. Stress echocardiograms may involve physical activity or medication to simulate physical stress.
Most echocardiogram appointments last 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of test you are undergoing.
What Are the Benefits of Echocardiogram Testing
Echocardiogram testing provides vital information that cannot be obtained through a physical exam alone. Some of the benefits include:
- Non-Invasive – No surgery or incision required.
- Detailed Information – Offers high-quality visuals of heart muscle, valves, and blood flow.
- Early Detection – Helps identify issues before they cause severe symptoms.
- Quick and Safe – Minimal risks are involved, and the test is completed within an hour.
Echocardiogram Testing Near Me in Irmo, SC
If you are looking for echocardiogram testing, look no further than SC Internal Medicine Associates and Rehabilitation. We provide state-of-the-art diagnostic services, including echocardiograms.
Our team of caring medical professionals focuses on providing comprehensive care and patient-centered services. Whether you need testing or are looking to better manage a chronic condition, we are here to help.
For more information or to schedule your consultation, call us today at (803) 749-1111 or use our appointment request form. Your better health starts here.
