An echocardiogram is one of the most widely used tools in cardiology and for good reason. It offers a safe, noninvasive way to evaluate the heart’s structure and function in real time. Whether you are experiencing symptoms like shortness of breath or simply undergoing a routine cardiac evaluation, your provider may recommend an echocardiogram to gain a clearer picture of what’s going on inside your heart.
What Is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram, often called an “echo,” is an imaging test that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to produce detailed, moving pictures of the heart. It allows providers to see the size and shape of the heart, how well it is pumping, and how the heart valves are working.
The test is painless and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. A small device called a transducer is placed on your chest. It sends out sound waves that bounce off your heart and return as echoes. These echoes are converted into images by a computer, allowing the provider to observe the heart’s function in real time.
What Can an Echocardiogram Detect?
Echocardiography is used to evaluate a wide range of heart conditions. It provides important information about:
1. Heart Size and Structure
- Enlarged chambers, thickened walls, or abnormal anatomy
- Changes related to high blood pressure, heart failure, or valve disease
2. Pumping Strength (Ejection Fraction)
- Measures how well the heart is pumping blood to the body
- Helps assess for heart failure or weakened heart muscle
3. Valve Function
- Identifies valves that are leaking (regurgitation) or narrowed (stenosis)
- Can detect valve infections or congenital defects
4. Blood Flow Abnormalities
- Color Doppler imaging shows how blood moves through the heart
- Helps detect blockages, clots, or holes in the heart
5. Fluid Around the Heart (Pericardial Effusion)
- Excess fluid can signal inflammation, infection, or injury
6. Heart Muscle Motion
- Irregular movement of the heart wall may indicate damage from a previous heart attack
These findings give cardiologists essential information to make a diagnosis, plan treatment, or monitor the effects of a condition over time.
Why Might a Provider Recommend an Echocardiogram?
You may be referred for an echocardiogram if you have symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
- Chest discomfort
- Fatigue or dizziness
It is also a helpful tool in people with:
- Known heart murmurs
- History of heart valve disease or heart failure
- High blood pressure
- A previous heart attack
- Risk factors for heart disease
Even if you are not having active symptoms, an echocardiogram can provide valuable baseline information if you have a chronic condition or are preparing for surgery.
What to Expect During the Test
For most echocardiograms, no special preparation is needed. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown and lie on your left side on an exam table. A water-based gel is applied to the chest to help the transducer get clearer images.
You may be asked to hold your breath briefly or change positions so the provider can capture views from different angles. The procedure is noninvasive, does not involve radiation, and causes no pain.
After the test, a cardiologist will review the images and provide a report. In many cases, results are available quickly and help guide your next steps in care.
Taking the Next Step
If your provider has recommended an echocardiogram, it means there is a reason to take a closer look at how your heart is functioning. Whether you are experiencing symptoms or simply being proactive about your cardiovascular health, an echocardiogram is a safe and effective tool for early detection and treatment planning.
Epic Cardiology serves patients from across Greater Los Angeles, with locations in Chino, Pomona, San Dimas, Sherman Oaks, Lynwood, and Inglewood. Contact us today to learn more about services near you and take a closer look at your heart health with confidence.