Cardiac ultrasonography, more commonly referred to as an echocardiogram, is a tool used to create a moving image of the heart through waves of sound, explains the American Heart Association. Sound waves sent into the cardiac region of the chest bounce off the heart and are recorded by the echocardiogram to create a moving image. It's used to help diagnose issues occurring within the valves and chambers of the heart.
Types
There are two basic types of echocardiograms. Transthoracic is the most commonly used. It targets beams of ultrasound over the chest to arrive at an image of the heart, according to the Mayo Clinic. A transesophageal echocardiogram is used when the transthoracic is unable to provide a proper image. In this procedure, a tube is guided down the throat and into the esophagus behind the heart, where the ultrasound gives a more detailed image of the organ.
Subsequent Testing
Both transthoracic and transesophageal tests are often accompanied by another test known as a Doppler echocardiogram. This type of ultrasound measures blood flow. A patient may also be subjected to a stress echocardiogram. This test is usually reserved for measuring the heart during times of physical exertion. An image of the heart is taken before, after and even during physical activity to garner an idea of how it functions while under stress.
Function
The first two echocardiograms give doctors an idea of the shape, texture and movement of the valves in the heart, as well as the size and function of its chambers, according to the American Heart Association. With such a detailed image, the causes of heart problems are better discerned, which allows the proper treatment to aid in recovery. The measurements provided by a Doppler echocardiogram can identify valve leakages, regurgitations within the valves and narrowing of the arteries. Stress echocardiograms help diagnose coronary heart disease.
Features
With the moving images, a doctor can tell whether or not your heart is of an abnormal size because of high blood pressure, weakened valves or damaged valves, notes the Mayo Clinic. It can also give doctors an idea of the strength of your heart by showing how much blood leaves the ventricles during contractions, which can help diagnose the potential of heart failure. The actual movement or activities of the muscles that make up the heart are seen, helping identify damage caused by coronary artery disease or heart attack. Echocardiograms are also essential in the diagnosis of heart defects in infants.
Safety
Undergoing an echocardiogram really poses no risk to your health. The waves of sound do nothing more than create a moving image of the heart so a doctor can see exactly how it beats and pumps blood, as well as the size and structure of its chambers and valves. However, you may experience a slight discomfort after a transesophageal echocardiogram from the scope fed through the throat. You may also experience irregular heartbeats or heart palpitations during a stress echocardiogram. These are temporary, and monitored by a trained medical professional.
