An echocardiogram is used to detect problems in the anatomy and function of the heart. A portable gadget emits sound waves that bounce off your heart, resulting in a moving picture of it on a screen. This allows your doctor to examine your heart’s structure from various perspectives and monitor your heart rhythm. If you are experiencing exhaustion, shortness of breath, or fainting, you may require an echocardiogram Upper East Side test.
Types of echocardiogram
Various types of ECG exams yield different results.
- Transthoracic echocardiogram: This widespread and extensively used ECG test is noninvasive and safe. Gel and electrodes are applied to the chest by the sonographer or echocardiographer. A transducer is firmly pushed against the chest, sending an ultrasound beam to the heart. The technology captures sound waves emitted by the heart and converts them into moving visuals on a computer monitor. A contrast agent may be given intravenously if needed to highlight the heart’s components more clearly.
- Doppler echocardiogram: Sound waves or Doppler signals bouncing off blood flowing through the heart and blood vessels provide a more precise measurement of the speed, pressure, and direction of blood flow in the arteries than standard ultrasonography.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram: A transesophageal echocardiogram may be advised if a normal ECG fails to produce good pictures or if the heart and valves need to be examined in more detail. The transducer is introduced into the neck with a tube to get detailed images. A mild, relaxing sedative is delivered to the throat to facilitate the operation.
- Stress echocardiogram: Before and after walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary cycle, ultrasound pictures of the heart are obtained. Doctors may give those unable to exercise an injection of a medicine that causes the heart to beat as vigorously as if they were exercising.
After the operation
After an echocardiogram, most individuals may continue their usual daily activities. If the ECG is normal, no further action is necessary. If the findings warrant further inquiry, the patient may be sent to a cardiologist for more testing. Treatment is determined by what is discovered during the exam and the patient’s symptoms. In the future, they may require another echocardiogram or other diagnostic procedures, such as a CT scan or coronary angiography.
Limitations of an echocardiogram
While an echocardiogram can reveal a lot about heart structure, it cannot show the coronary arteries or any blockages. If your coronary arteries need to be closely inspected, a procedure known as a cardiac catheterization is usually used. It may be challenging to view the heart during an echocardiogram in patients with specific diseases, such as a thick chest wall or emphysema. If you have one of these problems and require an echo, you may necessitate a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), an invasive ultrasound of your heart. This involves inserting a device into the esophagus to observe the heart.
If you or a loved one requires an echocardiogram, you may be confident that it is a simple and safe procedure. There are several reasons for getting the test and numerous possible outcomes. Most disorders revealed by an echo can be managed with medicine. Heart surgery, which has a very high success rate, is sometimes required to repair the condition. Consult with a doctor if you are unsure what your results signify. Call Upper East Side Cardiology to book a consultation to determine which electrocardiogram treatment suits you.