Echocardiogram

A painless way to assess heart health

Echocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart muscle. An echocardiogram (or “echo”) is a test that uses sound waves to take pictures of the heart. A specially trained technician places a small, plastic microphone-like device against the chest. This device sends ultrasound waves that bounce off different parts of the heart and create an image of your heart on a computer screen. An echocardiogram can help your physician diagnose problems with your heart and heart valves and plan your treatment.

Echo exams are being used more and more as a screening tool to identify areas of concern. Heart disease can be managed and successfully treated when it’s caught in the early stages, and echocardiography is an extremely quick, painless way to watch out for problems.

There is no special preparation required unless recommended specifically by your physician. For more information about the benefits of an echocardiogram, ask your health care provider or call Huggins Hospital’s Medical Imaging Department at 603.569.7529.