What is an Echocardiography?

An echocardiogram (echo) is a test that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to make pictures of your heart. The test is also called echocardiography or diagnostic cardiac ultrasound.
Doppler echocardiography.
This Doppler technique is used to measure and assess the flow of blood through the hearts chambers and valves. The amount of blood pumped out with each beat is an indication of the hearts functioning. Also, Doppler can detect abnormal blood flow within the heart, which can indicate a problem with one or more of the hearts four valves, or with the hearts walls.

Why do I needan Echocardiography?

Echocardiography used to find out:
• The size and shape of your heart, and the size, thickness and movement of your heart’s walls.
• The heart’s pumping strength.
• If the heart valves are working correctly.
• If blood is leaking backwards through your heart valves (regurgitation).
• If the heart valves are too narrow (stenosis).
• If there is a tumor or infectious growth around your heart valves.
• Problems with the outer lining of your heart (the pericardium).
• Problems with the large blood vessels that enter and leave the heart.
• Blood clots in the chambers of your heart.
• Abnormal holes between the chambers of the heart.

How to Prepare for Echocardiogram?

• Generally, you dont need to do any preparation such as fasting or having sedation.
• Tell your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements that you are taking.
• Tell your doctor if you have a pacemaker.