An echocardiogram is a very important investigation done when evaluating the heart. The most common type done is called a transthoracic echocardiogram.
It is a non-invasive and painless ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart. It shows the structure (chambers, valves, walls) and function (pumping ability, blood flow) of the heart in real time.
An echocardiogram may be ordered if you are experiencing signs or symptoms that suggest heart disease, such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat or racing of the heart
- Heart murmur
- Swelling in the legs (edema)
- High blood pressure
- History of heart disease or stroke
An echocardiogram is also used to:
- Diagnose heart valve problems (stenosis, regurgitation)
- Evaluate heart function after a heart attack
- Monitor known heart conditions
- Detect congenital heart defects
At Hope & Grace Cardiac Centre, echocardiograms are available in a safe and comfortable environment. We are here to guide you through your cardiac evaluation and management process.