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What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to create images of your heart. This procedure allows your doctor to see how your heart is beating and pumping blood, and to identify any structural or functional abnormalities.
What to Expect:
- Preparation: You will be asked to remove clothing from the waist up and put on a hospital gown. You may be asked to lie on your left side.
- During the Procedure: A technologist will apply a gel to your chest to help transmit sound waves. A transducer (a small device) will be moved across your chest to capture images of your heart. You may hear the sound of your heartbeat during the procedure
- Duration: The test typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.
What are the benefits of an echocardiogram?
The echocardiogram helps in:
- Assessing the overall function of your heart.
- Evaluating the size and shape of your heart.
- Checking for diseases of the heart muscle or valves.
- Identifying the presence of any fluid around the heart.
- Monitoring heart conditions over time.
What are the risks of an echocardiogram?
All procedures involve an element of risk and patients shold be aware of them. You may experience:
- Mild discomfort from the pressure of the transducer.
- Skin irritation from the gel.
There are no known serious risks associated with an echocardiogram.