Is An Echocardiogram Necessary? Here Is What You Should Know

The heart is responsible for managing the overall function of the human body. As a result, it is best to seek immediate professional attention as most heart-related issues are often life-threatening. Whenever your specialist suspects a heart condition, an echocardiogram is one of the very first diagnostic procedures conducted. An echocardiogram is a type of heart ultrasonography that utilizes sound waves to generate highly-detailed images of the internal dynamics of your heart, including murmurs, valves, blood flow, and more. At Cardiovascular Institute, P.A., you can access a wide range of specialized echocardiograms, ranging from Transesophageal to Stress and Doppler ultrasounds. Meanwhile, here is all you should know about common reasons doctors suggest Tomball echocardiograms and what you should expect from the procedure.  

Why Would You Require An Echocardiogram?

Whereas your cardiologist may request a cardiac ultrasound for various reasons, some are more prevalent. Echocardiograms, for example, are frequently performed after a heart attack to examine the harm and present functionality of the heart. They could also check for blood clots or monitor a heart murmur or cardiac birth abnormality. Other prevalent reasons your cardiovascular specialist might recommend an echocardiogram include:

• Diagnosis of a possible heart problem that might be causing concerns such as chest discomfort or difficulties breathing
• Examine and test blood circulation across the heart
• Keep an eye out for lung and heart functionality in persons who are critically or chronically unwell
• Examine chest pain
• Spot and keep track of tumors or other developments within the heart

Nonetheless, this is not a comprehensive list. There are numerous other reasons your physician might want echocardiography. Therefore, you must heed your doctor’s advice if they have requested or suggested it.

How to Prepare For Your Echocardiogram?

No extra preparation is required for a typical echocardiogram. You are free to drink, eat, and take prescriptions as usual. However, your doctor might request you not to consume anything for some hours before your procedure because of the medication you will receive. What’s more, you should make plans for your transport following the ultrasound.

What to Expect From an Echocardiogram Procedure?

Contrary to what you might think, the moment your cardiologist mentions an echocardiogram, there is no associated discomfort or risk. An EKG machine will also watch you throughout most of these procedures. This device utilizes tiny metal plates to track your cardiac function and provide a comprehensive picture of your heart’s condition.

The echocardiography itself will be straightforward. Your specialist applies a cooling gel to your chest then the handheld ultrasound probe is dragged across to obtain detailed images of your heart. Based on your specific test and operator, you may be requested to turn slightly or hold your breath to modify the image. Images are presented on a monitor instantaneously and captured so that your cardiologist can review them later.

Your hearts’ health is part of your body’s healthy; hence, problems with it could impact your whole body, from your brain to your lungs and blood. Fortunately, an echocardiogram can assist you in identifying any potential concerns early enough, thus, guaranteeing that you obtain appropriate care. Irrespective of why you require an echocardiogram, cardiovascular expert Dr. Daljit Muttiana and his staff at Cardiovascular Institute, P.A. can help. Call the Tomball, TX office or request an appointment online to get started.