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ECHO-CARDIOGRAM
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What Is an Echocardiogram?
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An echocardiogram (also called “echo") is a test that uses ultrasound waves to
examine the heart. It is a safe and painless procedure that helps doctors
diagnose a variety of heart problems.
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Why Is the Echo Done? |
The echo test gives doctors useful information about the heart, such as: - Size
of the heart. The echo is used for measuring the size of the heart chambers and
thickness of the heart muscle.
- Pumping strength. The test shows whether the
heart is pumping at full strength or is weakened. It can also help determine
whether the various parts of the heart pump equally.
- Valve problems. The echo shows the shape and
motion of the heart valves. It can help determine if a valve is narrowed or
leaking and show how severe the problem is.
- Other uses. The test may also be used to detect
the presence of fluid around the heart, blood clots or masses inside the heart,
and abnormal holes between heart chambers. Sometimes, the echo is combined with
an exercise test, to see how well the heart pumps when made to work harder.
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Before Your Echo
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No special preparations are necessary. You may eat and go about your normal
activities, unless you are told otherwise. Make sure you wear a two-piece
outfit. The echo may be done at a hospital, test center, or doctor's office.
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How Long Does It Take? |
An echo exam usually takes from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of
views and whether the Doppler echo is also used. Be sure to allow extra time to
check in. When the test is over, you may eat and return to your normal
activities.
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Is the Echo Safe? |
The echo test is very safe. There are no known risks from the ultrasound waves.
It is also painless, even though you may feel a slight discomfort when the
transducer is held firmly against the chest. |
What Are the Benefits?
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A major benefit of the echo test is that it gives information about the heart's
structures and blood flow without anything entering the body. The major
limitation is that it is often difficult to obtain good quality images in
patients who have broad chests, are obese, or are suffering from chronic lung
disease (such as emphysema).
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Your Test Results
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If a doctor is present during the test, you may be able to get the results
before you leave. Otherwise, your own doctor will discuss the test results with
you during a future office visit. The information gained from the echo test
helps your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that's
best for you.
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