Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram, or 'echo', is an ultrasound scan of the heart. Painless and radiation-free, it uses sound waves to create moving images that show the heart's size, the strength of its pumping, and how well its valves open and close. It is one of the most common and useful heart tests.
Overview
What is an echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram, or 'echo', is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It is painless and radiation-free, using sound waves to create moving images that show the heart's size, the strength of its pumping, and how well its valves open and close.
Why is it done?
It is one of the most common and useful heart tests, used to investigate breathlessness, a heart murmur, suspected heart failure or valve disease, and to check the heart after a heart attack or before certain treatments.
Test Details
What happens during the test?
You lie on a couch while a small amount of gel and a hand-held probe are moved across your chest (a transthoracic echo). It usually takes 20 to 45 minutes. Sometimes a stress echo (with exercise or medication) or a transoesophageal echo (a probe passed gently down the throat) is used for more detailed views.
How do I prepare?
A standard echo needs no special preparation. Your team will tell you if you are having a stress or transoesophageal echo, which may require fasting or adjusting certain medicines.
Results and Follow-Up
What do the results show?
The scan measures things like the ejection fraction (how well the heart pumps), how the valves are working, and the size of the heart's chambers. A cardiologist interprets these alongside your symptoms and other tests to guide any treatment.
Additional Common Questions
Does an echocardiogram use radiation?
No. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound — harmless sound waves — to create images of the heart. There is no ionising radiation, which is part of why the test can be repeated safely and used in children and during pregnancy when needed.
Is an echocardiogram the same as an ECG?
No, although the names sound alike. An ECG (electrocardiogram) records the heart's electrical activity through stickers on the skin. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to show the heart's structure and movement. The two tests give different, complementary information.
Do I need to prepare for an echocardiogram?
For a standard transthoracic echo, usually no special preparation is needed and you can eat and drink as normal. A transoesophageal echo requires fasting beforehand, and a stress echo may have specific instructions about medicines. Your team will tell you what applies to you.
How long does an echocardiogram take?
A standard transthoracic echocardiogram typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Specialised versions, such as a stress echo, may take a little longer because of the exercise or monitoring involved.
Sources
This health topic is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician about your individual situation. See our medical disclaimer.