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An echocardiogram, or echo, is a non-invasive imaging test that uses ultrasound waves to create detailed pictures of the heart. It helps doctors evaluate the structure and function of the heart, including its chambers, valves, and blood flow. Echocardiograms are essential in diagnosing and monitoring a range of heart conditions, such as heart murmurs, valve disorders, and cardiomyopathy.
This test is safe, painless, and suitable for people of all ages. It is often recommended for individuals that are experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations. Additionally, echocardiograms can detect congenital heart defects, assess the effectiveness of treatments, and guide decision-making for surgeries by medical professionals at Gleneagles Hospitals.
Common Reasons for an Echocardiogram
Doctors may use an echocardiogram to evaluate various heart conditions, grouped as follows:
Structural Abnormalities
- Congenital Heart Defects: Birth defects in heart structures, like holes in the heart.
- Septal Defects: Holes in the heart walls, increasing stroke risk.
- Shunts: Abnormal blood flow pathways.
Heart Muscle and Function Issues
- Cardiomyopathy: Enlarged or weakened heart muscle.
- Heart Failure: Weak heart muscle causing inefficient blood pumping.
- Atherosclerosis: Hardened arteries affecting heart function.
Valve and Circulation Problems
- Heart Valve Disease: Issues with heart valves, such as narrowing or leakage.
- Aneurysms: Bulges in the heart muscle or aorta.
Inflammatory and Fluid Conditions
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the heart's outer lining.
- Pericardial Effusion/Tamponade: Fluid buildup around the heart that may cause compression.
Unusual Growths or Tumors
- Cardiac Tumors: Abnormal growths within or on the heart.
Types of Echocardiograms and Their Applications
Different types of echocardiograms cater to specific diagnostic needs:
Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
This is the most common type, where a transducer is placed on the chest to capture images. It’s often used for initial evaluations.
Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
A transducer is inserted into the oesophagus for clearer images of the heart’s structures, especially for detecting clots or infections.
Stress Echocardiogram
This involves imaging the heart before and after exercise or medication-induced stress to identify issues that occur under physical strain.
Doppler Echocardiogram
Used to measure blood flow and identify abnormal patterns, such as backflow through valves.
Foetal Echocardiogram
Performed during pregnancy to assess a baby’s heart development.
Each type is tailored to specific situations, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
Benefits of an Echocardiogram at Gleneagles Hospitals
Calcium scoring and angiograms are essential diagnostic tools extensively used to assess heart health and detect coronary artery disease (CAD), a leading cause of heart attacks and cardiovascular complications. Although both tests aim to evaluate cardiovascular risk comprehensively, their methodologies, application, and the insights they offer differ significantly. Calcium scoring measures calcified plaque accumulation in the coronary arteries to predict the likelihood of future heart events. In contrast, angiograms provide detailed visualisations of the arteries, precisely locating and quantifying blockages or narrowing that could lead to critical cardiovascular conditions.
Echocardiograms conducted at Gleneagles Hospitals offer multiple significant advantages:
Timely and Accurate Diagnosis: Early detection and precise evaluation of heart abnormalities, such as valve disorders, heart muscle dysfunction, or congenital heart defects, allow for timely intervention, significantly reducing the risk of severe complications and improving patient outcomes.
Expert Analysis: Our team of highly skilled cardiologists and specialised technicians interpret echocardiogram results with exceptional accuracy, ensuring reliable and clear diagnostic conclusions. This expert interpretation supports tailored treatment plans that address individual patient needs effectively.
Comprehensive Patient Care: Gleneagles Hospitals provides holistic, integrated care that spans initial diagnosis, detailed consultation, personalised treatment planning, and ongoing management. This seamless approach ensures continuity of care, improving patient experience and treatment effectiveness.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced imaging equipment, Gleneagles Hospitals guarantees optimal imaging quality, enhanced diagnostic precision, and maximum patient safety, setting a benchmark for cardiac care standards.
Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Your heart health is too important to ignore. Whether you have symptoms of a heart condition, a family history of cardiac issues, or require routine monitoring, an echocardiogram is a vital diagnostic tool during a heart check-up. At Gleneagles Hospitals, our expert team is dedicated to providing world-class cardiac care in a comfortable and supportive environment. Take the first step towards better heart health today by scheduling an appointment with us. Let us help you ensure your heart stays strong and healthy. You may also book an appointment by downloading the MyHealth360 application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.