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What is an echocardiogram?
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What are the different types of echocardiograms?
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What techniques are used in echocardiography?
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M-mode echocardiography: This technique creates a one-dimensional image of the heart's movement over time. It is used to measure the thickness and movement of the heart walls and the size and function of the heart valves.
Two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography creates real-time heart images from different angles. It is used to assess the size, shape, and function of the heart and its chambers, as well as the movement of the heart valves.
Doppler echocardiography: This technique uses the Doppler effect to measure blood flow velocity through the heart and its chambers. It is used to identify areas of narrowing or blockage in the heart valves and assess the heart's pumping function.
Colour Doppler echocardiography: This technique combines Doppler echocardiography with colour to create images that show the direction and velocity of blood flow through the heart. It is used to identify areas of regurgitation (leaking blood) and stenosis (narrowing) in the heart valves and assess the heart's pumping function.
Other techniques that may be used in echocardiography include:
Tissue Doppler imaging measures the velocity of the heart muscle tissue.
Strain imaging is used to assess the heart muscle's function and identify areas of damage.
Contrast echocardiography is used to diagnose various heart conditions.
When would I need an echocardiogram?
Symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness
A history of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, or cardiomyopathy
High-risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking
A family history of heart disease
A congenital heart defect (a heart defect that you were born with)
If you have shortness of breath
What does an echocardiogram show?
Size and shape: show whether the heart is enlarged, reduced in size, or has an unusual
Wall thickness: show whether the heart walls are thickened, thinned, or normal.
Valves: show how well the heart valves are opening and closing and whether there is any regurgitation (leakage) or stenosis (narrowing).
Pumping function: shows how well the heart is pumping blood.
Abnormalities: show any other abnormalities in the heart, such as blood clots, tumours, or infections.
How is a transthoracic echocardiogram done?
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Preparing for a transthoracic echo
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What to expect during a transthoracic echo
Before the test
You will be asked to remove any jewellery or clothing that may interfere with the test, such as a necklace or bra.
You may be asked to drink plenty of fluids before the test to help fill your bladder. A full bladder can help to improve the images of the heart.
You will be asked to lie on your back on a table.
The technician will place a transducer on your chest. The transducer is a small, handheld device that emits ultrasound waves.
The technician will move the transducer around your chest to obtain heart images.
During the test
You may feel pressure from the transducer on your chest, but the test is not painful.
The test typically takes about 30 minutes
You may be asked to hold your breath briefly to improve the image quality.
After the test
You can resume your normal activities immediately after the test.
The technician will review the images with the doctor to provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendations.
How is a transesophageal echocardiogram done?
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Preparing for an exercise stress echo
To prepare for an exercise stress echo, you should:
Avoid caffeine for 24 hours before the echocardiogram test. Caffeine can interfere with the results of the test.
Avoid eating a large meal for 3-4 hours before the echocardiogram test. A full stomach can make it uncomfortable to exercise.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can walk or run in.
Take any medications that your doctor has prescribed for you unless they tell you not to.
If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor before the echocardiogram test.
What to expect during an exercise stress echo
Before the test
You will be asked to change into a gown and remove any jewellery or clothing that may interfere with the test.
You will be connected to an electrocardiogram (EKG) monitor to track your heart rate and rhythm throughout the test.
A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm to monitor your blood pressure.
A transducer (a small, handheld device that emits ultrasound waves) will be placed on your chest.
You will be asked to warm up by walking or running slowly for a few minutes.
During the test
You will begin walking, running on a treadmill, or riding a stationary bike.
The technician will gradually increase the speed and incline of the treadmill or bike to increase the intensity of the exercise.
You will continue to exercise until you reach your target heart rate or until you experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
The technician will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and rhythm throughout the test. They will also take images of your heart using ultrasound.
After the test
You will be able to rest and cool down.
The technician will remove the EKG monitor, blood pressure cuff, and transducer.
The technician will review the images of your heart and discuss the results with you.
How do I get the results of my echo test?
Here are some tips for getting the results of your echo test:
Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor as soon as possible after the test.
Ask your doctor how long it will take to get the results of your echo test.
If you do not receive a copy of the echo test report, ask your doctor for one.
During your follow-up appointment, ask your doctor any questions about the echo test results and what they mean for you.
What should you not do before an echocardiogram?
Here are some things you should not do before an echocardiogram:
Eat or drink anything except water for at least four hours before the test. A full stomach can make obtaining clear images of the heart difficult.
Smoke or use any nicotine products on the day of the test. Nicotine can constrict the blood vessels, making it difficult to see the heart.
Drink coffee or anything with caffeine for 24 hours before the test. Caffeine can increase your heart rate and make it difficult to get accurate readings.
Take any medications that may affect your heart rate or blood pressure. This includes medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitroglycerin.
