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Echocardiography with color Doppler
An ultrasound scan of the heart that shows its structure and function in motion — without radiation and without pain.
Echocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart. A probe moved across the chest produces a live image of the heart's chambers and valves, while color Doppler displays blood flow through them in color.
The scan shows how the heart muscle contracts, whether the valves are narrowed or leaking, how thick the walls are, and whether there is fluid around the heart. It is therefore one of the core investigations for shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, a heart murmur, high blood pressure, or follow-up of a known heart condition.
The examination is performed while you lie on your left side. Gel is applied to the skin for better contact with the probe. Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation and can be repeated as often as needed. You receive the findings immediately after the scan, with an explanation of what they mean.
The scan shows how the heart muscle contracts, whether the valves are narrowed or leaking, how thick the walls are, and whether there is fluid around the heart. It is therefore one of the core investigations for shortness of breath, chest pain, palpitations, a heart murmur, high blood pressure, or follow-up of a known heart condition.
The examination is performed while you lie on your left side. Gel is applied to the skin for better contact with the probe. Ultrasound uses no ionising radiation and can be repeated as often as needed. You receive the findings immediately after the scan, with an explanation of what they mean.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed. Eat and drink as usual and take your regular medication. Bring any previous medical records and earlier echo reports if you have them. It helps to wear an upper garment that is easy to remove.