Sound waves are used in an echocardiogram to produce images of the heart. This basic test can demonstrate how the heart and its valves are functioning. The images from the test can be used by your doctor to identify heart disease and other cardiac issues.

An echocardiogram is done to look for heart problems. The test shows how blood moves through the heart chambers and heart valves. Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have chest pain or shortness of breath.

Types of echocardiograms

There are different types of echocardiograms. The type you have depends on the information your healthcare provider needs.

Transthoracic: This echocardiography is typical. Another name for it is a cardiac ultrasound. It is a non-invasive method of examining the heart’s and heart valves’ blood flow. Through a TTE, images of the heart are produced from outside the body. Contrast, a dye, can be administered intravenously. It makes the architecture of the heart more visible on the photographs.

Transesophageal: Your healthcare provider might do this test if a typical echocardiogram is unable to offer all the necessary information. It provides a thorough examination of the heart and the aorta, the body’s principal artery. From inside the body, a TEE can produce images of the heart. It’s frequently done to look at the aortic valve. If you have an esophageal tumour, rip, or bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal system, you shouldn’t undergo this test.

Fetal: To examine the baby’s heart during pregnancy, this kind of echocardiography is performed. It is a non-invasive test that includes scanning the pregnant woman’s tummy using an ultrasound probe. It enables a medical professional to view the developing baby’s heart without the need for surgery or X-rays.

Stress: Before and after you exercise, a stress echocardiography is performed in a doctor’s clinic. It examines the heart’s reaction to stress or physical exertion. If your doctor suspects you have coronary artery disease, they could request this test. You might be given medication to make your heart work harder if you are unable to exercise.

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