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Overview ECO

Echocardiogram refers to the image of the heart that is produced with the help of sound waves. In this test, an ultrasound is done by placing a wand over the chest.

Why is ECO done?

Echocardiogram is performed to check the problems related to the heart and also lets the doctor check the problem in the chamber of the heart.

Types of ECO

There are four types of ECO: 1. Doppler Echocardiogram: It helps the doctor to know the movement of blood flow in your heart. It is also used to check the problems that are related to blood pressure. 2. Transthoracic Echocardiogram: In this type of echocardiogram, a sonographer puts gel on the transducer and is pressed over the chest. With the help of transducer sound waves echoes from the heart are recorded. Then the echo is converted into the image with the help of a computer. 3. Transesophageal Echocardiogram: This type of echocardiogram is recommended when the doctor does not get a clear image of the heart through the standard echocardiogram. 4. Stress Echocardiogram: This echocardiogram is recommended when a doctor needs to check the problem related to coronary artery.

Risks ECO

There is no such risk involved in standard echocardiogram. You will only feel a little discomfort when the transducer is pressed on the chest. If you have experienced stress echocardiogram then you will be asked to do exercise or need to take proper medicine. If your test is done through transesophageal echocardiogram then you will feel a little sore in your throat for a few hours after the test.