Echocardiogram and What This Heart Test Can Show

When your GP or cardiologist recommends an Echocardiogram, you may have questions about what the test involves and why it has been requested.

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test of the heart. It uses sound waves to create moving images of the heart while it beats.

The test can provide information about the heart's structure and function, including the heart chambers, valves and heart muscle.

What Is an Echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is also known as an echo or echocardiography.

It uses a small ultrasound probe, called a transducer, to create images of the heart.

Unlike an X ray, a standard echocardiogram does not use ionising radiation.

The images can help a cardiologist assess different parts of the heart, including:

• Heart chambers
• Heart valves
• Heart muscle
• Heart movement
• Blood flow

The type of information required will depend on the reason for the test.

Why Might You Need an Echocardiogram?

There are different reasons why a doctor may recommend an echocardiogram.

It may be considered when a person has symptoms such as:

• Chest discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Dizziness
• Reduced ability to exercise
• Unusual tiredness

An echocardiogram may also be recommended if a doctor hears a heart murmur or wants to investigate a known heart condition.

Your doctor will decide whether an echocardiogram is appropriate based on your symptoms, medical history and clinical findings.

What Can an Echocardiogram Show?

An echocardiogram can provide information about the structure and movement of the heart.

Depending on the type of examination, it can help assess:

Heart Chambers

The heart has four chambers that work together to move blood through the body.

An echocardiogram can create images of these chambers and provide information about their size and movement.

Heart Valves

Heart valves help control the direction of blood flow through the heart.

An echocardiogram can provide information about how the valves are functioning.

Heart Muscle

The heart muscle contracts to pump blood around the body.

An echocardiogram can show how the heart muscle is moving and provide information about its function.

Blood Flow

Some echocardiogram techniques can assess blood flow through the heart and its valves.

This can provide additional information during a cardiac assessment.

What Happens During an Echocardiogram?

A standard echocardiogram is generally performed while you are lying down.

A healthcare professional places the ultrasound probe on different areas of your chest.

A small amount of gel is placed on the skin to help the probe create clear images.

You may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath while images are taken.

The healthcare professional will capture the images needed for the cardiologist to review.

Is an Echocardiogram Painful?

A standard echocardiogram is generally not painful.

You may feel some pressure as the ultrasound probe is moved across your chest.

The amount of pressure can vary depending on the images that need to be obtained.



If you have concerns before your appointment, your healthcare team can explain what to expect.

Do You Need to Prepare for an Echocardiogram?

Preparation can depend on the type of echocardiogram you are having.

For a standard echocardiogram, special preparation is often not required.

Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions if any preparation is needed.



It is useful to bring information about your current medicines and previous heart tests if requested by your healthcare provider.

Echocardiogram vs ECG

An echocardiogram and an ECG are different tests.

An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart.

An ECG records the heart's electrical activity using sensors placed on the skin.

A doctor may recommend one or both depending on what needs to be assessed.

Echocardiogram vs Stress Echocardiogram

A standard echocardiogram looks at the heart while you are resting.

A Stress Echocardiogram combines ultrasound imaging with controlled exercise or another form of controlled stress.

The two tests provide different types of information.

Your cardiologist can explain which test is appropriate based on your symptoms and clinical assessment.

You can learn more about Stress Echocardiography at Heartlink Cardiology.

What Happens After the Echocardiogram?

After the images have been collected, they are reviewed by the appropriate healthcare professional.

Your cardiologist can discuss the findings with you and explain what they mean in the context of your health.

Depending on the findings, your doctor may recommend:

• Monitoring
• Further testing
• Follow up appointments
• Lifestyle discussions
• Ongoing management
• Referral for additional care where appropriate

The next step depends on your individual circumstances.

An echocardiogram result should not be considered on its own. Your doctor will consider the result together with your symptoms, medical history and other investigations.

Echocardiogram and Preventative Cardiology

Heart health is not only about investigating symptoms.

Preventative cardiology can involve looking at cardiovascular risk factors and understanding your individual health history.

These factors may include:

• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Family history
• Physical activity
• Previous heart conditions

An echocardiogram may be recommended when there is a clinical reason to assess the structure or function of the heart.

It does not mean that everyone needs an echocardiogram.

You can learn more about Preventative Cardiology at Heartlink Cardiology.

Echocardiogram at Heartlink Cardiology

Heartlink Cardiology provides cardiology consultations and cardiac investigations in Springfield Central.

If your GP has recommended an echocardiogram, your cardiologist can explain why it has been requested and what information the test may provide.

You can learn more about Echocardiography at Heartlink Cardiology.

You can also visit the Heartlink Cardiology home page to learn more about the available cardiology services.

Frequently Asked Questions