What Does an Echocardiogram Show

An echocardiogram checks how your heart's chambers and valves are pumping blood through your heart. An echocardiogram uses electrodes to check your heart rhythm and ultrasound technology to see how blood moves through your heart. An echocardiogram can help your doctor diagnose heart conditions.

1. Can an echocardiogram detect clogged arteries?
2. What if my echocardiogram is abnormal?
3. What does an echocardiogram show that an ECG does not?
4. What are normal results of an echocardiogram?
5. What are the 4 signs your heart is quietly failing?
6. Why would a doctor order an echocardiogram?
7. Can echocardiogram detect heart attack?
8. Does heart failure show up on an echocardiogram?
9. How long does it take to get results from an echocardiogram?
10. What are the warning signs of clogged arteries?
11. Does an echocardiogram show inflammation?
12. What are the 4 stages of heart failure?

Can an echocardiogram detect clogged arteries?

If artery blockages are suspected the echocardiogram may show abnormalities in the walls of the heart supplied by those arteries. These are known as wall motion abnormalities.

What if my echocardiogram is abnormal?

Symptoms include bulging neck veins, swelling in the arms, nausea, and fainting. Abnormal echocardiogram results help doctors determine if further testing is necessary or if you need to be placed on a treatment plan. When it comes to your heart, there is no room for taking risks.

What does an echocardiogram show that an ECG does not?

The echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart that provides moving pictures and provides information on the structure and function of the heart. The EKG is a heart tracing that mainly provides information on the rhythm of the heart. Both tests are often used in conjunction and are complimentary to each other.

What are normal results of an echocardiogram?

A normal result is when the heart's chambers and valves appear typical and work the way they should. More specifically, this means that: There are no visible blood clots or tumors in your heart. Your heart valves open and close properly.

What are the 4 signs your heart is quietly failing?

Heart failure signs and symptoms may include:

• Shortness of breath (dyspnea) when you exert yourself or when you lie down.
• Fatigue and weakness.
• Swelling (edema) in your legs, ankles and feet.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Reduced ability to exercise.
• Persistent cough or wheezing with white or pink blood-tinged phlegm.

Why would a doctor order an echocardiogram?

Your doctor may suggest an echocardiogram to: Check for problems with the valves or chambers of your heart. Check if heart problems are the cause of symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain. Detect congenital heart defects before birth (fetal echocardiogram)

Can echocardiogram detect heart attack?

An echocardiogram can help detect: damage from a heart attack – where the supply of blood to the heart was suddenly blocked. heart failure – where the heart fails to pump enough blood around the body at the right pressure. congenital heart disease – birth defects that affect the normal workings of the heart.

Does heart failure show up on an echocardiogram?

This testing also helps to determine the underlying cause of heart failure. Diagnostic tests for congestive heart failure may include: Resting or exercise electrocardiogram (also known as EKG, ECG, or stress test) Echocardiogram.

How long does it take to get results from an echocardiogram?

If your test was ordered by a cardiologist who can read his or her own echo test results, the doctor should be able to figure out pretty quickly if there's anything abnormal going on with your heart. If it's been ordered by a non-cardiologist, he or she should get the official results report within a day.

What are the warning signs of clogged arteries?

Symptoms

• Chest pain (angina). You may feel pressure or tightness in your chest, as if someone were standing on your chest. ...
• Shortness of breath. If your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs, you may develop shortness of breath or extreme fatigue with activity.
• Heart attack.

Does an echocardiogram show inflammation?

This test can show signs of inflammation of the heart muscle. Echocardiogram. Sound waves create moving images of the beating heart. An echocardiogram might detect enlargement of your heart, poor pumping function, valve problems, a clot within the heart or fluid around your heart.

What are the 4 stages of heart failure?

There are four stages of heart failure (Stage A, B, C and D). The stages range from "high risk of developing heart failure" to "advanced heart failure," and provide treatment plans.