What is it?
Echocardiography uses sound waves to show the heart chambers, wall thickness, valve movement and pumping strength. It involves no radiation and is done with a probe placed on the chest.
You are asked to lie on your left side; gel is applied to the chest and images are taken from different angles. Information is gained about valve narrowing or leakage, heart muscle function and the membrane surrounding the heart.
Echocardiography findings are interpreted together with the examination, symptoms and other tests rather than alone. Because their meaning can differ from person to person, the images are reviewed with you at the end and a follow-up interval is set if needed.
Who is it assessed for?
- People in whom a heart murmur is heard on examination
- Those with breathlessness or swollen legs
- People with hypertension whose effect on the heart needs to be assessed
- Those under regular follow-up for heart valve disease
- People who need heart function checked before certain drug treatments
Step by step
- 1
Preparation
No special preparation is needed; you are asked to uncover the chest.
- 2
Imaging
Images are taken from different angles while you lie on your left side.
- 3
Measurements
Heart chambers, wall thickness and valve flows are measured.
- 4
Assessment
Findings are interpreted together with your symptoms and other tests.
Questions
Do I need to fast before echocardiography?
No. Fasting is not required for a standard echocardiogram. A top that is easy to remove is recommended.
Does echocardiography involve radiation?
No. It is based on sound waves and can also be used during pregnancy.
Are results explained straight away?
In most cases findings are discussed with you after the scan. Whether further tests are needed is also considered at that time.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical examination. Results and the suitable approach vary from person to person.