Consult an Expert about an Echocardiogram
Diagnostic tests are required in order to determine your current health status and the efficacy of your treatment. In light of this, an echocardiogram is one of the tests that are commonly requested by a physician to check how well your heart is functioning.
Don’t put your heart in danger by stalling. If you require an echocardiogram, you can rely on Apex Heart and Vascular Center to have executed reliably for you. We have a team of experts that can help you overcome your existing condition and treat any heart problems connected to it at the same time.
Common Questions You May Have About an Echocardiogram
What is an echocardiogram?
It is a type of diagnostic test that makes use of sound waves in order to create images of your heart. An echocardiogram can also give details on your heart’s size, shape, location, capacity, and even the extent of tissue damage that has sustained.
As of now, there are different types of echocardiograms and each of them present little to no risk. This test is typically performed to collect data on how well your heart is beating and pumping blood. Apart from that, it can also aid your physician in determining the presence of a heart problem as it is a common test undergone by follow-up patients who are suspected to have heart disease.
What are the reasons why an echocardiogram might be needed?
An echocardiogram is often requested when a patient presents with symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, and other observable signs that may be related to a heart problem.
The test is often requested by a physician in order to:
- Review the valves and chambers of the heart for any abnormalities.
- Determine the possible connection between symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pains to a heart problem.
- Detect the presence of a congenital heart defect (even before birth).
What happens during an echocardiogram?
The test procedure is fairly easy and does not require any special preparations (unless advised otherwise by your doctor).
For the most part of the test, you will simply be asked to lie down an exam table, either on your side or on your back.
Clothing will usually be removed starting from the waist upwards, but female patients will be provided with a drape during the procedure.
The test begins with the application of a gel on your chest (which will enhance the transmission of ultrasound waves) for the purpose of recording pictures of your heart.
At a time, you may be asked to change your position or hold your breath in order to best capture the data needed. After the procedure, you should be able to resume your daily activities without hassle or delay.