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An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to produce moving images of your heart. The procedure looks at the size and structure of the heart and allows the doctor to assess how well your heart is pumping blood. The test is safe, simple and takes approximately 15-30 minutes to perform.
An echocardiogram is usually requested if your doctor suspects there may be something wrong with your heart, or you are displaying symptoms that could be the result of a heart problem. Echocardiograms are incredibly safe. There is no known risk for using ultrasound in heart screening. It does not use radiation, it's non-invasive, and has no after-effects.
An ECG is good for identifying electrical problems in the heart, whereas an echocardiogram provides pictures of the heart?s structure. If your ECG result suggests that there might be a problem then, if appropriate, you will also have an echocardiogram scan. The echocardiogram can help the doctor to make a diagnosis or to confirm that your heart is fine.
An echocardiogram can help your doctor check the following:
The overall size and shape of the heart
The size, thickness and movement of the heart walls
How the heart moves during each heartbeat
The heart's pumping strength
If the heart valves are working correctly
If blood is "leaking" through the heart valves
If the heart valves are too narrow
If there are problems with the outer lining of the heart
If there are problems with the large blood vessels that enter and leave the heart
If there are blood clots in the chambers of the heart
If there are abnormal holes between the chambers of the heart
What: An echocardiogram carried out and reported by a Cardiologist. It uses ultrasound to creates images of your heart's movement, valves, and chambers, helping cardiologists diagnose a variety of heart conditions.
Who is it for: For anyone with serious concerns regard the function of their heart. An echocardiogram is typically carried out if there is a suspicion of a structural problem with your heart or the surrounding blood vessels.
Cost: £595
What: An ECG and Echocardiogram is carried out by a Cardiac Physiologist, with the scan then reviewed and reported, on the day, by a Cardiologist. Our nurse will also take your height, weight and blood pressure measurements.
Who is it for: For those that are asymptomatic (have no symptoms), who would like to screen for potential abnormalities. Suitable for those >18 years of age with no existing heart conditions.
Information: When you book an appointment you will receive a confirmation email which will include a questionnaire and consent form that will need to be completed online before your appointment.
Time: 1 Hour
Cost: £250
All our heart screening services are provided by a team of cardiology consultants and heart specialists. These services are diagnostic in nature and are focused on the diagnosis of cardiac abnormalities in adults.
Appointment Cost: £695.00
An echocardiogram is carried out by a doctor or technician who has been specially trained to do this. The doctor/technician will place some clear gel on your chest and then move a small scanning device around your chest (in contact with the gel). As it moves across the chest the scanner uses sound waves to create pictures of the inside of your heart, which will be displayed on a monitor. These pictures are constantly updated, so the scan can show the movement of your heart too.
No, you can eat and drink as normal on the day of your Echocardiogram, however it is recommended that you avoid caffeinated products for 24hrs before your test, as it can affect your blood pressure and heart rate.
No, you will need to remove your clothes from the waist up, but a gown will be provided, and you are free to bring, or request a chaperone whilst you are having your echocardiogram.
Typically, an echocardiogram will take around 20min, however it can last up to an hour, depending on the type and number of heart conditions that are being investigated.
Depending on the outcome of your echocardiogram, you may be able to have your results at the end of your consultation. However, if the cardiologist needs to analyse your test data further, your results will be sent to you via post.Your results will only be sent to your GP at your request, unless the cardiologist thinks it is necessary to do so. This will be discussed with you during your consultation.
If an abnormality is detected during your screening the cardiologist will discuss, if appropriate, any recommendations, treatment or referrals that may be required, at your consultation afterwards.
If you have been referred by Calon Hearts, please arrange your payment directly with the charity. If you are an individual, payment can be made over the telephone on booking, or when you attend your appointment.
We want to ensure that all of our patients receive the information they need to make an informed decision about their healthcare. If you have any questions or if you require assistance with anything, please let us know.
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