An echocardiogram employs ultrasound, or harmless sound waves, to acquire crucial information about your heart swiftly and effectively. When doctors have concerns about the size, shape, or performance of your heart and its valves, they will conduct an echocardiogram or echo. Echocardiography is a powerful diagnostic method for detecting cardiac problems. Your doctor can help you learn more about echocardiogram Upper East Side, so schedule an appointment today.
What is an echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram (echo) is a visual representation of the action of your heart. During an echocardiogram, your doctor uses high-frequency sound waves – known as ultrasound – from a hand-held wand set on your chest to photograph your heart’s chambers and valves. This permits the doctor to evaluate the pumping action of your heart.
To assess blood flow across your heart’s valves, providers typically combine echo with color Doppler treatments and Doppler ultrasonography.
Echocardiography does not utilize any radiation. This separates an echo from other exams that use small amounts of radiation, such as a CT scan and X-rays.
Who performs an echocardiogram?
Your echo is performed by a professional known as a cardiac sonographer. They have been taught to do echo testing and use cutting-edge technologies. They can work in various settings, including catheterization labs and hospital rooms.
Why is it performed?
Echocardiography is used to detect cardiac abnormalities. The test demonstrates how blood flows via the heart chambers and valves. Your doctor may recommend this test if you have chest discomfort or shortness of breath.
Types of echocardiogram
Echocardiograms are classified into several categories. The kind you have is determined by the information required by your healthcare practitioner.
- Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
This is a typical echocardiogram. It is also known as cardiac ultrasound. It is a non-invasive method of examining blood flow via the heart and valves. TTEs generate images of the heart from outside the body. IV may administer contrast dye. It improves the visibility of the heart’s architecture in pictures.
- Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
Your clinician may do this test if a regular echocardiogram does not offer enough information. It provides a comprehensive view of the heart and the body’s major artery, the aorta. A TEE generates images of the heart from within the body. It is frequently used to assess the aortic valve. This test should not be performed if you have upper gastrointestinal bleeding, a tumor, or a rupture in your esophagus.
- Fetal Echocardiogram
This echocardiography is used to examine the baby’s heart during pregnancy. It is a noninvasive test in which an ultrasound wand is moved over the pregnant woman’s tummy. It allows a doctor to glimpse the heart of an unborn infant without requiring surgery or X-rays.
There are other types of echocardiograms as well. Your doctor can tell you which one you need, so speak to your doctor today.
