What is an echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram uses high-frequency soundwaves to create images of your heart. Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates uses this test to visualize the structures of your heart and assess its functioning.
Why would I need an echocardiogram?
Echocardiograms provide Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates with a lot of information about your heart, like its size, shape, and movement. They can also evaluate your heart’s pumping strength and make sure the valves work properly.
You may need an echocardiogram for a variety of reasons, including to:
- Check for blood clots in the heart
- Determine the cause of symptoms like dizziness or chest pain
- Evaluate the health of the blood vessels that enter and leave the heart
- Look for problems with the pericardium, or outer lining of the heart
Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates may also perform an echocardiogram to determine how well a treatment works.
What happens during an echocardiogram?
Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates uses different types of echocardiograms, including:
Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE)
This standard type of echocardiogram involves placing a probe called a transducer on your chest. Your provider may first apply a small amount of gel to your skin to improve the echo signal.
The transducer sends soundwaves into your body that bounce, or echo, off of your heart. A computer changes these soundwaves into images on a video monitor.
Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
A transesophageal echocardiogram can create a clearer image of your heart with more detail. This procedure involves guiding a transducer down your throat through a flexible tube. Your throat is numb when this happens and you receive medications to help you relax.
What risks are involved in an echocardiogram?
A standard transthoracic echocardiogram doesn’t involve any risk. However, you may feel some discomfort from the pressure of the transducer on your chest.
You may have a sore throat after a transesophageal echocardiogram, but this usually resolves in a few hours. Rarely, the tube may scratch the inside of your throat.
Unlike other imaging tests, like X-rays, echocardiograms don’t involve exposure to radiation.
To schedule your echocardiogram, call Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates or book an appointment online today.
