Echocardiogram: Understanding This Common Heart Test
When your doctor recommends a heart test, it is normal to have questions about why you need it and what will happen during the appointment.
An Echocardiogram is a commonly used heart imaging test that uses ultrasound to create moving images of the heart. It can provide information about the heart's structure and how it is working.
Your GP or cardiologist may recommend an Echocardiogram based on your symptoms, medical history or findings from another examination or test.
Understanding the purpose of an Echocardiogram can help you feel more prepared before your appointment.
What Is an Echocardiogram?
An Echocardiogram is an ultrasound examination of the heart.
It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart as it beats. Unlike an X-ray or CT scan, an Echocardiogram does not use ionising radiation.
The images can allow a cardiologist to assess different parts of the heart, including:
- Heart chambers
- Heart valves
- Heart muscle
- Movement of the heart
- Blood flow through the heart
The type of Echocardiogram performed depends on what your doctor needs to assess.
Why Might You Need an Echocardiogram?
An Echocardiogram may be recommended for different clinical reasons.
Your GP or cardiologist may consider one if you have symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Palpitations
- Dizziness
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
It may also be recommended when a doctor needs more information about a heart murmur, an existing heart condition or findings from another investigation.
Having an Echocardiogram does not necessarily mean that you have a heart condition. The test is used to gather information that can help your healthcare professional assess your individual circumstances.
What Can an Echocardiogram Show?
An Echocardiogram can provide information about several aspects of the heart.
Depending on the type of examination, it may allow a cardiologist to assess:
Heart Chambers
The heart has four chambers that work together to move blood through the body.
An Echocardiogram can provide images of these chambers and their movement.
Heart Valves
Heart valves control the direction of blood flow through the heart.
An Echocardiogram can provide information about how the valves are moving and how blood is flowing through them.
Heart Muscle
The test can provide information about the movement and function of the heart muscle.
Blood Flow
Doppler ultrasound can be used during an Echocardiogram to assess blood flow through the heart and its valves.
The findings are interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional alongside your medical history and other relevant information.
What Happens During an Echocardiogram?
A standard Echocardiogram is generally performed while you are lying down.
During the examination:
- You may be asked to remove clothing from the upper body as required.
- Small electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm.
- Ultrasound gel is applied to the chest.
- A trained professional moves an ultrasound probe across different areas of your chest.
- Images of your heart are recorded from different positions.
- The images are reviewed as part of your clinical assessment.
You may feel some pressure from the ultrasound probe as images are taken, but the examination does not involve needles or radiation.
How Long Does an Echocardiogram Take?
The length of an Echocardiogram can vary depending on the type of examination and the information required.
Your healthcare team can explain how the appointment will be conducted and how long you may need to allow for the visit.
If additional imaging is required, the appointment may take longer.
Do You Need to Prepare for an Echocardiogram?
For a standard Echocardiogram, special preparation is generally not required.
However, preparation can vary depending on the type of heart imaging test you are having.
Before your appointment, follow the instructions provided by your healthcare team.
It may also be helpful to bring:
- Your referral
- Medicare details
- A list of current medications
- Relevant previous test results
- Any questions you would like to ask
Is an Echocardiogram Safe?
An Echocardiogram uses ultrasound rather than ionising radiation.
It is a commonly used diagnostic imaging examination and is generally considered safe.
Your healthcare team will explain the procedure before it begins and can answer any questions you have about the examination.
What Happens After the Test?
After your Echocardiogram, the images are reviewed and interpreted by the appropriate healthcare professional.
Your results may then be discussed with you by your cardiologist or referring doctor.
Depending on the findings and your individual circumstances, your doctor may recommend:
- No further testing at that time
- Monitoring or follow-up
- Additional heart investigations
- Referral to another healthcare professional
- Changes to your ongoing management
The next step depends on your individual health needs and the results of your assessment.
Echocardiogram vs Stress Echocardiography
Although the names are similar, these are different investigations.
A standard Echocardiogram looks at the heart while you are resting.
A Stress Echocardiography combines heart ultrasound with controlled exercise or medication-induced stress to assess how the heart responds when it is working harder.
Your cardiologist will recommend the type of test that is appropriate based on your symptoms and clinical circumstances.
When Should You Speak With Your Doctor?
If you have ongoing symptoms such as chest discomfort, breathlessness, palpitations or reduced exercise tolerance, speak with your GP.
Your GP can assess your symptoms and determine whether further investigation or referral to a cardiologist is appropriate.
If you experience severe or sudden chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, collapse or another medical emergency, call
000.
Echocardiogram at Heartlink Cardiology
If your GP or healthcare professional has recommended an Echocardiogram, Heartlink Cardiology provides cardiac assessment and diagnostic services in Springfield Central.
The Heartlink Cardiology team can assess your individual circumstances and explain the investigation recommended for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Echocardiogram?
An Echocardiogram is an ultrasound examination that creates images of the heart and can provide information about its structure, movement and blood flow.
Does an Echocardiogram use radiation?
No. A standard Echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves and does not use ionising radiation.
Is an Echocardiogram painful?
A standard Echocardiogram is generally not painful. You may feel some pressure from the ultrasound probe while images are being taken.
How long does an Echocardiogram take?
The appointment length varies depending on the type of Echocardiogram and the information required. Your healthcare team can provide more specific information before your appointment.
What is the difference between an Echocardiogram and a Stress Echocardiography?
A standard Echocardiogram examines the heart at rest. A Stress Echocardiography combines ultrasound imaging with controlled exercise or medication-induced stress.
