In case you are suspected of any cardiac issues, it is quite obvious that you would be ordered an echocardiogram, commonly called an echo test. If you have been ordered an echo test, it is obvious that you might be wondering what it is and why it is necessary. 

This blog is an attempt to help you understand the essence of echo test and what makes it an important test in cardiac issues.  We will also have a clear understanding of the normal ranges.We will also check how they help the doctors in understanding important aspects of treatment. 

What is an Echocardiogram (Echo Test)?

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test of the heart. It produces detailed, moving pictures of your heart's structure and function. The test is also known as an echo scan, a heart echo test, or heart ultrasound. This diagnostic test uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your heart as it beats.

The echo medical test is completely painless and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. The time taken would be largely be dependent on the type of  echocardiogram being performed. The test can reveal information about your heart's size, shape, pumping ability, and how well blood flows through each valve.

Which Disorders Can Be Diagnosed by an Echo Test?

The echo test offers a comprehensive insight with multiple diagnostic capabilities. This test can be used for various reasons, and the test can reveal numerous heart conditions.

Structural problems 

The test can give an idea int the physical structure of your heart. These could include abnormal valve function, thickened heart walls, or an enlarged heart chamber. In fact, the test can even detect birth defects of the heart. 

Valve diseases 

Echo test for heart also helps the doctors find if the valves of your heart are opening and closing properly. It can also help you detect the issues like valve stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leaking). 

Cardiomyopathy

Your heart muscle can become weak and enlarged. This is clearly visible on an echo test diagram. The test shows how well your heart is pumping and whether the muscle walls are functioning properly.

Heart failures 

The echo test can also detect your heart's ejection fraction. It provides you the percentage of blood your heart pumps out with each beat. This is crucial information for diagnosing and monitoring heart failure.

Blood clots 

If you have had an earlier episode of a stroke or transient ischemic attack, an echocardiogram can help locate the source of a blood clot.

Infections 

The test can help you reveal info about the infections of the heart valves or inflammation in the sac surrounding your heart.

Other heart conditions 

An echocardiogram can also detect pericardial effusion (fluid around the heart), high blood pressure in the lungs, tumors, and various other cardiac abnormalities.

Types of Echocardiogram tests 

There are different types of echo tests used. Each of these tests serve different purposes. Understanding each of these tests will help you know what to expect from these tests. 

Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)

The test involves placing  a transducer directly on your chest. A TTE typically takes 20 to 40 minutes and requires no sedation. You can usually return to your normal activities immediately after the test. There are virtually no known risks associated with this procedure.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

The test is used when doctors need a clear and more detailed image of your heart. In this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a transducer at its tip is gently inserted down your oesophagus. The test typically takes up to 90 minutes. After a TEE, you'll need someone to drive you home, as you cannot drive for 24 hours due to the sedation.

Stress Echocardiogram

A stress echo test combines an echocardiogram with exercise or medication to stress your heart. You'll exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while your heart is monitored, and images are taken both before and after exertion. This test helps doctors see how your heart performs under physical stress.

Other Echocardiography Techniques

• Three-Dimensional (3D) Echocardiography test : This advanced technique creates a three-dimensional model of your heart. That should offer an enhanced visualization of complex cardiac structures.
• Contrast Echocardiography: In some cases, a special dye is injected into your bloodstream to improve the visibility of certain heart structures. This is helpful when lung or rib issues interfere with standard imaging.

How to Prepare for the Test?

The exact preparatory steps before a test should be dependent on the test you are going through. 

For Transthoracic Echocardiogram

The preparations before the test would include –

• Fast for a few hours before the test.
• Remove all the jewellery that may interfere with the test.
• Wear comfortable and loose clothes.
• Take your prescription medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Avoid caffeine for at least 2 hours before the test.
• Avoid smoking for a day before the test. 

For Transesophageal Echocardiogram

Before the test, you should take the following preparatory steps –

• Do not eat or drink anything at least 6 hours before the test.
• Remove dentures
• Wear comfortable and loose fitting clothes.
• Inform your doctor of any allergies.
• Take medications only on your doctor’s advice. 

General Preparation Tips

The preparatory tests would include 

• Arrive 15 minutes before the test
• Prepare the paper work in advance 

Echo Test Procedure: What to Expect?

Well, understanding what happens during the test should help you prepare for the same. 

Before the test 

On the day of the test, you are taken to the examination room. You will be explained about the procedure and any questions you have will be answered. Electrodes (sticky patches) will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm throughout the procedure. 

During the Transthoracic Echo

Here is what happens during the echocardiogram procedure –

Step 1 - Gel Application: The sonographer applies a special ultrasound gel to your skin where the transducer will be placed. This gel is water-based and may feel cool initially, But it's essential for allowing the sound waves to travel effectively.

Step 2 - Transducer Positioning: The sonographer places the transducer firmly against your chest and moves it slowly over different areas of your chest. You may feel moderate pressure, but there should be no pain.

Step 3 - Image Capture: As the transducer moves, it captures images from various angles and positions. The sonographer may ask you to take deep breaths or hold your breath briefly to improve image quality.

Step 4 - Monitoring: Throughout the procedure, you'll see your heart on a monitor. The sonographer may take still images and record moving video clips of your heart beating.

Step 5 - Additional Techniques: The sonographer may use specialized Doppler techniques to measure blood flow through your heart and valves, providing valuable information about your cardiac function.

The entire transthoracic echo procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. However,  the actual scanning time is often much shorter.

After the test

The ultrasound gel is removed from your body. You can dress and return to your normal activities immediately. 

Echocardiography Report & Results

The reports should be available within a day of the test in most of the cases. 

Normal Results 

The normal results will indicate that your heart is working normally. It also confirms that the pumping action of your heart is fine. The normal results also indicate that there are no blood clots and abnormal structures in your heart. 

What Abnormal Results Mean

Abnormal echocardiography results can indicate various conditions requiring further investigation or treatment. Common abnormal findings include:

Ejection Fraction Issues

If your ejection fraction is below 50%, it suggests your heart isn't pumping as efficiently as it should. This could indicate heart failure or other conditions.

Valve Problems

Abnormal results might show stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leaking) in one or more heart valves, which may require monitoring or treatment.

Structural Defects

The test might reveal congenital heart defects, previous damage, or other structural abnormalities. 

It's crucial to remember that abnormal results don't necessarily mean you have a serious condition. Some findings are minor and require only monitoring, while others may need treatment. Your cardiologist will explain what your specific findings mean and recommend appropriate next steps.

Risk Factors of an Echo Test

The echo test is one of the safest cardiac tests currently used for assessing the cardiac health. This test is reported to have minimal  health risks. 

Having said that, in rare cases, you may come across the following issues –

Transthoracic Echocardiogram Risks

This echo test is known to have no risk factors. The procedure uses ultrasound technology. It does not expose you to any sort of radiation. 

Transesophageal Echocardiogram Risks

The test is slightly invasive in nature. You may have a few risk factors –

• Mild sore throat: Some patients experience a sore throat for a few days after the procedure
• Allergic reaction: Rarely, patients may have an allergic reaction to the sedative used
• Esophageal perforation: Extremely rare, but the tube could potentially cause a small tear in the esophagus
• Bleeding: Minimal risk of bleeding, especially if blood thinners are being taken

Stress Echocardiogram Risks

It may come with a few higher risk rates –

• Chest discomfort: You may experience chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath: Normal during exercise stress testing
• Heart palpitations: Your heart may beat irregularly
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Can occur during intense exercise
• In rare cases: Heart attack (extremely uncommon in medically supervised settings)

Contrast Echocardiography Risks

The test may use a contact dye. That would mean you may have allergic reactions. 

Your cardiologist will discuss all relevant risks before your procedure and will monitor you carefully throughout. The benefits of an echocardiogram far outweigh the minimal risks for the vast majority of patients.

Conclusion

An echocardiogram is a powerful diagnostic tool. It provides invaluable information about your heart's health and function. The test may be ordered when your doctor wants to investigate your symptoms or assess your risk factors. 

The echo medical test offers a safe, radiation-free way to visualize your heart in motion. The blog here provides you a complete info on what expect as part of the test. That would be quite helpful in getting rid of any anxiety. 

Take the first step toward better cardiac health. Schedule your echocardiogram and invest in your heart's future today.

FAQs

What is the difference between an echocardiogram and echocardiography?

The two terms are used interchangeably. When your doctor orders an "echo test," they're ordering echocardiography to produce an echocardiogram.

How long does an echocardiogram test take?

A standard transthoracic echo heart test typically takes 30 to 60 minutes total. However, if there is anything that needs to be specifically investigated, the scanning time may increase. A transesophageal echo may take up to 90 minutes and an stress echo also usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.

What do abnormal echocardiography results mean?

Abnormal results could indicate various conditions such as valve disease, heart failure, previous heart attacks, enlarged heart, blood clots, infections, or congenital heart defects. However, the abnormal results would need additional tests. 

What should you not do before an echocardiogram?

You should avoid caffeine, nicotine, and large meals for several hours before your test. For a transthoracic echo, avoid caffeine for at least 2 hours. For a TEE, avoid all food and drink for at least 6 hours.

What does an echocardiogram show?

An echo test shows your heart's size, shape, wall thickness, chamber dimensions, valve function, blood flow patterns, pumping ability (ejection fraction), and the presence of any fluid around the heart.

What if an echo test is positive?

A "positive" echo test typically means abnormal findings were detected. However, that should not mercenarily mean you have any other health issues. You will need additional tests to confirm any issues.