Menu
service_detail1

Echocardiography

Choosing the right cardiovascular specialist is a significant step toward better health. At Cardiovascular Specialists, our team of professionals prioritizes your heart health by leveraging state-of-the-art technologies and providing comprehensive cardiovascular care. One such technology that an experienced heart doctor can utilize is echocardiography. Keep reading to learn more about this remarkable diagnostic tool and what it can do for patients.

How Does Echocardiography Work?

Echocardiography, often referred to as an echo test or heart ultrasound, is a non-invasive technique that employs sound waves to create detailed images of the heart's anatomy and performance. But how exactly does this happen? The echocardiogram device, when placed against your chest, transmits high-frequency sound waves into your body, which then bounce off your heart and are recaptured by the device.The returning echoes are converted into moving images that can be viewed on a monitor, providing a real-time, dynamic picture of your heart.

service_detail2

When is an Echocardiogram Needed?

An echocardiogram is a versatile tool that helps diagnose, assess, and monitor various heart conditions. Your doctor might recommend this test if they suspect:

  • Heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and diseases of the heart valves.
  • Abnormalities in your heart's structure, such as issues with heart chambers or valves.
  • Problems with your heart's function, like difficulties in pumping blood effectively.
  • Heart defects you've had since birth.

An echocardiogram can also help guide treatment plans and monitor their effectiveness over time.

service_detail3

The Process of Conducting an Echocardiogram: What to Expect

You might feel a little apprehensive if you're about to have your first echocardiogram, but there's no need to worry. It's a simple, non-invasive procedure that doesn't involve radiation or discomfort. On the day of the examination, the sonographer will apply the gel on your chest to facilitate the transmission of sound waves through your skin. They'll then place the echocardiography transducer on your chest, moving it around to capture images from various angles. You can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the test.

Understanding Your Echocardiogram Results

Once your echocardiogram is complete, a cardiologist specializing in echocardiography will interpret the images. The results can provide a wealth of information about your heart, including:

  • Examining the size and form of your heart, along with the dimensions, thickness, and movement of your heart's walls.
  • Assessing your heart's pumping capacity.
  • Determining the functionality of your heart valves.
  • Checking for any backward leakage of blood through your heart valves.
  • Detecting overly narrow heart valves.
  • Inspecting for the presence of tumors or infectious growths around your heart valves.
  • Evaluating the operation of the heart chambers.
  • Identifying any issues with the heart's outer lining.
  • Detecting any problems with the large blood vessels that both enter and exit the heart.
  • Searching for blood clots within the heart chambers.

While these results may sound complex, your doctor will discuss them with you in a clear and straightforward manner, guiding you through any next steps or treatment plans as necessary.

Do You Need a Local Cardiologist for Echocardiography? 

At Cardiovascular Specialists, we understand that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your heart health. That's why we're dedicated to offering the latest in cardiac diagnostics, including comprehensive echocardiography services. If you’re looking for a heart doctor in your community, call or visit our office to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment. 

Treatments

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a condition that can pose a significant danger to our health, often without any noticeable symptoms. Early detection and intervention are critical to preventing life-threatening…

Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Varicose veins and spider veins not only impact physical appearance but also have the potential to cause discomfort and affect overall well-being. At Cardiovascular Specialists, we help local patients…

Achial Brachial Index ABI 
Achial Brachial Index ABI 

Cardiovascular diseases are on the rise, posing a significant threat to our well-being. The key to tackling these diseases lies in early detection and prevention. At Cardiovascular Specialists, we…