How do I Understand Echocardiograms?

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that sends sound waves through an instrument called a transducer. The transducer picks up echoes of the sound waves and generates pictures as they bounce off different areas of the heart.

Significance

• A physician may schedule an echocardiogram to evaluate, diagnose or monitor heart conditions including heart murmurs, the pumping function of the heart and abnormal heart valves. Echocardiograms are commonly performed to examine any damage to the heart after a heart attack.

Types

• According to WebMD, the most common test is a transthoracic echocardiogram. This test is performed by moving a transducer across the chest area. A stress echocardiogram test is given before and after the heart is stressed by exercising or taking medication. A doppler echocardiogram test monitors the blood flow through the heart. A transesophageal echocardiogram uses a probe passed down the esophagus to obtain pictures of the heart.

Results

• The results from an echocardiogram are usually available in one week. Abnormal results of the echocardiogram can be minor or an indication of heart disease. A physician will discuss the results of the test and any further treatment needed if necessary.