CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
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What is an echocardiogram?
If you’ve been referred for heart tests, you may be wondering what an echocardiogram involves and how it helps diagnose heart conditions. Over 19,000 echocardiograms are carried out across HCA UK’s network of hospitals and outpatient centres each year. Dr Carl Shakespeare, Consultant Cardiologist from The Lister Hospital London, explains what the test is and why you might need one.
How an echocardiogram helps assess your heart health
An echocardiogram, sometimes called a heart echo test or simply an "echo", is a safe, painless ultrasound scan that allows doctors to see your heart in action. It uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart, helping specialists assess its structure and how well it is working. Unlike an X-ray, an echo does not use radiation.
The test shows the size and shape of the heart, how effectively it pumps blood, the condition of the heart valves and whether there are any abnormalities affecting the heart muscle.
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What happens during an echo test?
The test itself is quick and straightforward. During an echo you’ll lie comfortably on a couch. Small electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart using ultrasound, and a specialist will use a handheld probe to scan your heart. There’s no recovery time needed – you should be able to return to your normal activities straight away.
Why would I need an echo?
If you're experiencing symptoms such as breathlessness, chest discomfort, unusual fatigue or dizziness, your doctor may recommend a heart echo test. Early assessment can help identify potential heart problems sooner and ensure you receive the right care as quickly as possible.
An echo may also be recommended to investigate abnormal findings from other tests or to check for inherited heart conditions in people with a family history of heart disease.