Medically reviewed by Nachiket J. Patel, MD, FACC, FSCAI. Last reviewed July 2026.
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create moving images of the heart. It does not use radiation and provides information that an electrocardiogram or chest X-ray cannot.
The study can show how strongly the heart pumps, whether a chamber is enlarged, how the valves move, and how blood flows through the heart. It can also provide clues about pressure and fluid around the heart.
The value of an echocardiogram comes from answering a clinical question and comparing the findings with symptoms and prior studies—not from treating every small variation in the report as disease.
Why might an echocardiogram be ordered?
- Shortness of breath or swelling
- A heart murmur or known valve disease
- Chest symptoms or suspected heart-muscle disease
- Atrial fibrillation or another arrhythmia
- Fainting with concern for structural heart disease
- High blood pressure with suspected heart changes
- Follow-up after a heart attack or heart-failure diagnosis
- Monitoring a known aortic or congenital condition
What happens during a transthoracic echocardiogram?
Small electrodes monitor the rhythm. A sonographer places gel and an ultrasound transducer on several areas of the chest. You may be asked to turn onto your left side or briefly hold your breath.
Doppler measurements assess the direction and speed of blood flow. Color on the screen represents flow information, not a photograph of blood.
Most studies are painless, though firm pressure may be needed between the ribs to obtain a clear view. The appointment often takes less than an hour, depending on image quality and complexity.
Do I need to prepare?
A standard transthoracic echocardiogram usually requires no fasting or medication changes. Wear clothing that allows access to the chest.
A stress echocardiogram or transesophageal echocardiogram has different preparation requirements. Follow the instructions for the exact test on your order rather than general internet advice.
What measurements are commonly reported?
The ejection fraction estimates the percentage of blood pumped from the left ventricle with each beat. It is important, but it is not a complete description of heart function.
The report may also address wall motion, chamber dimensions, wall thickness, valve stenosis or regurgitation, right-heart function, filling pressure clues, aortic size, and pericardial fluid.
Strain imaging can detect subtler changes in heart-muscle deformation in selected settings. Three-dimensional imaging may improve assessment of certain valves or chamber volumes.
How are echocardiogram results used?
A normal study can be reassuring, but it does not exclude every rhythm problem, coronary blockage, or cause of breathlessness. An abnormal finding may require monitoring, medication, another imaging test, or referral.
Minor valve leakage is common and may have no clinical consequence. Conversely, a meaningful change from a prior study can matter even before symptoms become severe.
Dr. Patel reviews the images and measurements in the context of the reason for testing and explains which findings are important now, which need surveillance, and which require no action.
Frequently asked questions
Is an echocardiogram the same as an ECG?
No. An ECG records electrical activity. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to evaluate structure and motion.
Does a normal ejection fraction rule out heart failure?
No. Heart failure can occur with a preserved ejection fraction when filling pressures are abnormal or the heart is stiff.
Can I drive after a standard echocardiogram?
Usually yes. A standard transthoracic study does not require sedation. Other echo types may have different restrictions.
Related heart and vascular information
Schedule an appointment
If you have a stable heart or circulation concern, request an appointment with Flow Heart & Vascular in Mesa, Arizona. Call 911 for emergency symptoms.
This page provides general education and does not replace individualized medical advice.
