Echocardiogram

What Is an Echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) uses sound waves to create a moving picture of your heart. It shows your heart’s chambers, valves, walls, and blood vessels in real time, letting your doctor see how well your heart is pumping and whether its structures are healthy. It’s the same safe ultrasound technology used during pregnancy, and no radiation is involved.

Why Is It Done?

Your doctor may recommend an echocardiogram if you have symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling in your legs, or an abnormal heart sound (murmur). It helps diagnose heart valve problems, heart failure, fluid around the heart, and other structural issues. It’s also used to monitor known heart conditions over time.

What to Expect

You’ll lie on your left side on an exam table. A technician (sonographer) will apply a warm gel to your chest and move a small handheld device called a transducer across different areas. You may hear a whooshing sound. That’s the sound of blood flowing through your heart. The test typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and is completely painless.

How to Prepare

No special preparation is needed for a standard echocardiogram. You can eat, drink, and take your medications as usual. Wear a comfortable, two-piece outfit since you’ll need to remove clothing from the waist up and change into a gown.