Echocardiogram Specialist

What is an echocardiogram?

Sound waves emitted by ultrasound technology are applied to your body during an echocardiogram to create images of your heart. The images show the doctors how your heart beats and pumps blood. An echocardiogram is valuable in identifying heart irregularities and heart disease.

Who needs an echocardiogram?

Dr. Evivie or Dr. Kwaku will recommend you have an echocardiogram if you have a number of risk factors for heart disease. They can use the screening test to look for:

• Potential problems with the valves or chambers of your heart
• The cause of symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath
• Heart rhythm disorders

The results of your echocardiogram help the doctors develop a treatment plan for you.

Does an echocardiogram hurt?

An echocardiogram is noninvasive and painless. The test also uses no radiation. You don’t have to worry about side effects. You can go right back to all your daily activities following an echocardiogram.

What should I expect during an echocardiogram?

During an echocardiogram, you change into a hospital gown and relax on an exam table. The technician applies electrodes to your chest. Ultrasound technology uses these electrodes to detect your heart’s currents. A transducer, or wand, is slid across your chest with the help of a cool gel to conduct the sound waves.

You might need to occasionally breathe deeply or shift position to allow the technician to get an optimal view of your heart.

What information does an echocardiogram reveal?

The results of your echocardiogram offer important information about the health of your heart. Dr. Evevie and Dr. Kwaku might observe:

• Heart defects
• Damage to the heart muscle
• Changes in the size of your heart
• Variations in your heart’s pumping strength
• Problems with the heart valves
• Whether current medications are improving heart function

The doctors at PrimeCare Medical Center discuss their findings with you and present you with viable treatment plans to boost your heart health.

To learn more about the benefits and convenience of the on-site echocardiograms offered at PrimeCare Medical Center, call the office or book an appointment online.