An Ultrasound Test to Look for Heart Problems
Anechocardiogramis an ultrasound imaging test used to observe the heart.
It is also called a cardiac echo.
Your healthcare provider may order this test to help diagnose a heart condition.
Illustration by Cindy Chung, Verywell
This article explains why an echocardiogram may be used and what kinds of heart problems it can detect.
Also Known As
Other terms for an echocardiogram include:
Why Is an Echocardiogram Done?
A cardiac echo is used to identify abnormalities in the heart’s structure and function.
If you have symptoms offatigue,shortness of breath, orfainting, you may need a cardiac echo.
Another test calledcardiac catheterizationis commonly performed if your coronary arteries need to be examined closely.
Risks and Contraindications
An echocardiogram is considered a safe procedure with no known risks.
Types of Echocardiograms
There are a few different types of echocardiograms.
Transthoracic Echocardiogram
This is the standard echocardiogram test.
It is similar to the ultrasound tests that are used during pregnancy to view a fetus.
This test uses high-frequency sound waves to create a picture of your heart.
With this, a rig is placed in the esophagus to make it view the heart.
Stress Echocardiogram
Astress testmeasures your heart’s function while it is under stress.
A stress test can also be done using a medication that makes your heart beat faster.
A medication stress test is usually only done if you have difficulty exercising.
A stress echocardiogram uses sound waves to create a picture of your heart while it is under stress.
A transesophageal echo takes between 20 and 40 minutes and a stress echo takes between 45 and 90 minutes.
Location
Most medical offices will recommend that you have your echo at a cardiac testing center.
If you have health insurance, your carrier may require you to go to an approved location.
What to Wear
You will need to wear an examination gown for the test itself.
Once it is over, you’re able to change back into your clothes.
Food and Drink
There are no food and drink restrictions before a transthoracic echocardiogram.
This is because caffeine can speed up your heart rate.
Cost and Health Insurance
Your health insurance may require a pre-authorization for a diagnostic echo.
You also may be responsible for a copay.
If you are paying for the test yourself, it is likely to cost you several thousand dollars.
This includes facility fees, technical fees, equipment fees, and a professional fee.
you might ask the facility what the total cost is and for a breakdown of the fees.
Echocardiogram Procedure
A technician or a doctor will perform your echo.
Your own doctor may be present at your echo test, or another cardiologist may be there.
Pre-Test
You will be asked to change into an examination gown for the test.
During a Transthoracic Echo
The test will proceed differently depending on which bang out you are having.
Then they will place a transducer, or a small machine shaped like a microphone, on that area.
The transducer sends sound waves toward your heart.
The technician moves the transducer around to visualize your heart from different angles.
Your throat will be numbed and your provider will insert a flexible tube down your throat.
Then you’ve got the option to change back into your clothes and leave.
You do not have to adjust your activities, and there are no side effects after having an echo.
you’ve got the option to drive home after an echocardiogram.
What Results Will I Receive?
The results of your echo will be prepared in a written report by your doctor.
The report will describe the heart anatomy, heart movements, and any defects observed during the test.
It may take several days to several weeks for you to receive the report.
The report should include:
Your report may also include a comment about the quality of the images.
If the images did not come out clearly, that might make the results less reliable.
A cardiac echo is used to assess many different conditions.
As such, follow-up recommendations are highly variable and depend on the findings.
In general, follow-up after an echo is focused on the treatment of your heart condition.
A TEE may also be used for surgical planning.
Summary
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create a picture of your heart.
After the test, your doctor will write a detailed report of the results.
A treatment plan will be put in place depending on the findings.
American Heart Association.Symptoms and diagnosis of cardiomyopathy.
American Society of Clinical Oncology.Electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Echocardiography.
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American Heart Association.Cardiac catheterization.
American Heart Association.Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).
Heart and Stroke Foundation.Transesophageal echocardiogram.
