When someone experiences a sudden chest pain, irregular heartbeat or shortness of breath, doctors suggest they get an echocardiogram done. What is it, and why do doctors ask for it? Let’s break it down in this blog.

What is an Echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram, commonly called an echo test, evaluates the functioning of the heart along with heart valves and chambers.

It is performed with the help of high-pitched sound waves sent through a transducer device. The echoes of sound waves get converted to digital images of the heart, which are visible on the monitor. On examining these images, the cardiologist understands how your heart and its valves are functioning.

The images provide information like:

• Change in the size of the heart
• Problems with heart valve and /or aorta
• Difficulties in pumping the heart
• Blood clots in the heart chamber
• Any fluid in the sac around the heart chambers
• Any pressure in the heart

Why is Echocardiograph Done?

If your doctor finds abnormalities in your heartbeat or discovers some problems in your heart, they may suggest an echo test. Any unusual pattern in the electrocardiogram report also needs further evaluation.

After the heart attack, an echocardiogram detects the condition of the heart muscle. It also helps reveal any heart defects and irregularities in unborn babies.

Types of Echo Test

Transthoracic Echocardiogram: The most common type of echocardiogram in which the transducer (device) is placed on the chest over the position of your heart. With the help of the ultrasound waves, the images are seen on the monitor. These images help the doctor to examine the condition of the heart.

Doppler Echocardiogram: This test determines the pressure with which the blood flows through your heart chambers, valves and blood vessels. The computer measures the speed and direction of the blood flow. The measurements of Doppler are shown as images on the screen.

Stress Echocardiography: This echo test measures the stress level in your heart. It also shows different irregularities in the muscle function or heart wall and whether your heart is receiving adequate blood flow.

Transesophageal Echocardiography: In this echo test, the probe is moved down the oesophagus and does not involve moving over or outside the chest wall. Since no obstruction of sound waves are created, it provides a better image of your heart.

Preparing for an Echo Test

To carry out the transthoracic test, transesophageal test, and doppler test, you do not need to prepare yourself in advance. For the stress test, you should avoid eating fried or heavy food before the test. It’s better to wear comfortable, loose clothing. You must consult your doctor on whether you should continue your regular medicines or insulin.

Get the Best Service at Affordable Echo Test Price in Kolkata

An echo cost in Kolkata depends on the location and the quality of the diagnostic centre. Generally, a diagnostic centre at a prime location with modern equipment and supported by experienced medical staff may have high charges for their services.

However, you’ll be happy to know that AccuHealth Diagnostics Baruipur provides those same benefits at a lower echocardiography price in Kolkata. That’s because our primary goal is to make quality diagnostics accessible to all.

If you’re looking for reliable and affordable echo test of the highest standards in and around Baruipur, we are here to serve you. You can visit our Baruipur branch or call us at our toll-free no. 1800-120-3877 to know more.