An Echocardiogram (Echo) is an ultrasound of your heart. We use it to assess how your heart is pumping, how your valves are working, and whether there are any blood clots inside or fluid around your heart muscle. We can also use an Echo to detect any problems with your heart’s major blood vessels.
Why do I need an Echocardiogram (Echo)?
Your doctor may recommend an Echocardiogram (Echo) if they suspect you have a heart problem, such as heart failure, a heart murmur or a congenital heart defect (such as a ‘hole in the heart’).
What can I expect?
An Echo is an extremely safe and painless test, which typically takes 30 mins to 1 hr.
Before it begins, we’ll ask you to remove your clothing from the waist up and lie on our exam couch.
The sonographer will apply gel to your chest and move a probe called a transducer over the gel. We may also ask you to hold your breath briefly or lie on your side.
The images of your heart are recorded, interpreted by a Cardiologist and a report is given to your doctor to review