If you are experiencing heart-related symptoms, it may be beneficial to investigate what is happening within your heart. Board-certified cardiologist Sanul Corrielus, MD, MBA, FACC, and his colleagues at Corrielus Cardiology use an echocardiogram in Philadelphia, PA, to monitor electrical impulses in their patients’ hearts. An echocardiogram may offer the details your specialist requires to make sure you receive the best therapy possible. Contact the office of Corrielus Cardiology through mobile or request an appointment online to learn more about this simple outpatient procedure.
What Exactly is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a type of diagnostic test that employs ultrasound technology. It examines how your heart beats and pumps blood, as well as how blood is flowing in and out of your heart.
The Corrielus Cardiology group uses echocardiograms to diagnose problems such as:
o Congestive heart failure
o Aortic stenosis
o Hypertension of the lungs
o Heart attack
o Valvular sclerosis
o Coronary artery disease
o Regurgitation of the valves
o Cardiomyopathy
o Congenital cardiac defect
o Pericardial effusion
Heart conditions are responsible for thousands of male and female fatalities in the United States and globally. An echocardiogram is a risk-free, highly efficient test, which can aid in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
What is the Purpose of an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram creates moving images of your heart using sound waves.
A transducer, a hand-held device that sends sound waves into your chest, is used by the echocardiography machine. The sound waves return to the transducer, which transmits the data to a server.
The varied patterns formed by sound waves as they bounce off your heart provide the Corrielus Cardiology specialists with a clear picture of your heart’s structure and size, as well as how it functions.
What to Expect During an Echocardiogram?
The process varies based on the type of echocardiogram you have. The transthoracic echocardiography, which is similar to an abdominal ultrasound, is the typical test.
The physician administers a slick lubricant to your chest and slides the transducer across your skin. The gel makes the transducer glide more smoothly and increases image quality.
This procedure should not be uncomfortable. Nevertheless, you may feel pressure on your chest if the operator has to push harder to obtain a better image.
Is there a Variety of Echocardiograms?
A specific variety of echocardiograms, such as transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), may be required in some situations. The transducer in TEE is designed more like a skinny probe.
While under sedation, the physician inserts the transducer down your throat. A TEE draws closer to your heart. Thus, you may require one if your Corrielus Cardiology practitioner requires a closer look at your heart.
When Would You Require an Echocardiogram?
If you are experiencing any of the following signs of heart disease, your provider may advise you to have an echocardiogram.
o Breathing difficulties
o Heart murmur
o Atrial fibrillation (rapid, irregular heartbeat)
o Chest discomfort
o Presyncope (feeling lightheaded and faint and)
o Malignant hypertension (life-threatening high blood pressure)
If you have a transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke or TIA) or suffer congestive heart failure, you may also require an echocardiogram.
Corrielus Cardiology provides a one-of-a-kind approach to cardiovascular care. Call or schedule a consultation online to learn more regarding echocardiograms and other cutting-edge diagnostic technologies.
