What is an echocardiogram and how can it diagnose certain heart conditions?

The heart is one of the most important and powerful organs of the body. It needs to be well cared for in order for it to function at its best. At CVAM (Cardiovascular Associates of Mesa) Cardiology, patients of Arizona have access to a cardiovascular team that can provide quality care. We focus on providing the diagnosis and treatment of certain heart health conditions. To properly diagnose many heart problems, we use an echocardiogram.

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is a special device that utilizes special sound waves that produce images of the heart for evaluation purposes. This test is commonly performed by a doctor to visualize the heart as it beats and pumps blood throughout the body. The images resulting from echocardiograms can assist in diagnosing a wide selection of heart problems, including heart disease and deformities of the heart.

What can be evaluated with an echocardiogram?

Echocardiograms are effective at checking for problems:

• Impacting the chambers of valves of the heart

• Such as symptoms that might be caused by heart concerns

• Like congenital heart defects

• Including heart disease

What types of echocardiograms are used for diagnosis?

There are a variety of echocardiograms which may be ordered by a physician, including:

• Transesophageal echocardiogram

• Transthoracic echocardiogram

• Doppler echocardiogram

• Stress echocardiogram

What can I expect during an echocardiogram?

Echocardiograms are not painful and are completed in a short period of time. Patients will undress from the waist up before lying on a bed or examination table. Electrodes are attached to the body to check the heart’s electrical currents. A gel may also be applied as a transducer to help in administering sound waves. The transducer is then moved across the test to record and show images of the heart. Patients will often hear a pulsing sound from the ultrasound energy recording the heart’s blood flow.

Schedule a visit with us today!

If you are interested in working with a cardiologist in Arizona who can provide the diagnosis and treatment of various heart conditions, contact the office of  CVAM Cardiology today. Our team is located at four locations in Arizona and can be reached by phone at (480) 641-5400.