When Should I Get an Echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram shows if your heart is working correctly. It uses an ultrasound to determine the function and structure of your heart to see if you have a heart condition. During the test, medical personnel will use an imaging tool to take a picture of your heart, and a cardiologist will read the test.

Every 34 seconds, one person dies from heart disease in the U.S.  

There are several reasons you should get this test, including if you experience medical problems or have an existing heart condition.

Here's more on when you should schedule an echocardiogram.

Sudden Medical Issue

You can often experience a heart-related condition out of the blue. There may be signs of a heart condition during a workout, workday, or even relaxing.

Shortness of breath or fast heartbeat may be a signal something is wrong. You might also feel like you are having a heart attack. You might also be constantly tired.

Dizziness and swelling are other heart condition symptoms.

Don't ignore these symptoms! The echocardiogram imaging tool and medical equipment will determine if your heart is pumping enough blood throughout your body.

Talk with your doctor about the heart problems you are experiencing. They will likely order a test.  

Existing Heart Condition

If heart disease runs in your family, your cardiologist may order an echocardiogram. Heart attacks, stroke, or high blood pressure may trigger the test.

You might also have an enlarged heart or determine the extent of heart-related conditions and abnormalities (especially in infants and children). The imaging tool will scan the heart and give the cardiologist what's happening inside your body.

People with pacemakers also should get a regular echocardiogram for their heart conditions.

A doctor usually orders these tests to ensure everything is working in good condition.

Heart Valve Problems

The medical equipment in an echocardiogram shows the doctor your heart valves. Your doctor might notice a problem immediately, but for others, heart valves deteriorate over time. Faulty heart valves make your heart work harder.

Mild valve problems aren't typically an issue. However, a serious valve problem can lead to a heart attack, stroke, blood clots, or even heart failure.

During a heart exam, your doctor might notice the valves are not working problem, which can signal a heart murmur. An echocardiogram will determine if that's the case.  

If they still can't figure out the problem, the doctor may order more tests.

When You Should Get an Echocardiogram

You should schedule an echocardiogram with your cardiologist for several reasons, including having a sudden medical condition or an existing heart condition. Moreover, if you have a heart valve problem, an echocardiogram can determine the extent of the problem.

Contact us today if you need an echocardiogram. Our doctors and medical personnel in West Palm Beach, FL will care for every need during the process.

We take a variety of insurances and will take care of any billing needs.

An echocardiogram can save your life! Don't wait to get this valuable test done!