Echocardiography adults with Doppler

What is a heart echo?

Cardiac echo (echocardiography) is an imaging test that allows an assessment of the structure and function of the heart. The examination uses ultrasound waves, making it non-invasive and painless. This is performed together with a Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in the vessels.

Indications for the examination

The heart echo is a test used to diagnose heart disease and monitor treatment. Indications for the examination include:

symptoms such as chest pain, rapid fatigue and breathlessness;

• murmurs in the heart;
• coronary artery disease;
• venous thromboembolism;
• heart defects;
• hypertension;
• myocarditis;
• endocarditis;
• heart failure;
• history of heart attack.

Course of the examination

During the examination, the patient lies on their left side with their hand placed under the head. The doctor applies the gel to the patient’s exposed chest and then moves the head of a specialised device over the area. The doctor may ask the patient to change position, such as lying on their back or tilting their head.

The examination takes approximately 15-30 minutes. Once it is completed, you can return to your daily activities straight away.