ECHO (Echocardiogram) Services with MHWS

What is an ECHO?

An Echocardiogram (Echo) uses ultrasound waves to produce images of the heart that are interpreted by a Consultant Cardiologist.

Benefits of an Echo

An Echocardiogram can catch early signs of heart disease, identify heart abnormalities, and guide doctors in treating the condition accordingly.

Symptoms may include:

• Breathlessness and tiredness
• Persistent ankle swelling
• A persistent cough
• Rapid heart rate
• Weight loss

Echocardiogram scans are used to detect:

• Heart failure
• Assess Left & Right ventricular function
• Valvular heart disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Pericardial Disease
• Aortic dissection

Benefits of an Echo with MHWS

Availability, our waiting times are short meaning that you can have your check-up and get on with life quickly.

An Echocardiogram is conducted by a Consultant Cardiologist - a leading expert in the field of heart-health.

What to Expect?

The whole procedure will usually take between 45 and 60 minutes.

On arrival, you will meet your Consultant Cardiologist and be shown to the consultation room. A brief history will be taken and the procedure explained to you.

The procedure requires full access to the chest area surrounding your heart and therefore any clothing covering that area will need to be removed.

The procedure takes place in a private room with full-length screens providing further privacy.

You will be required to lie on your left side on an examination table, the same as you may have seen in your GP’s surgery.

The Echo’ uses an ultrasound probe and the Consultant Cardiologist will apply a lubricating gel to either your chest or the probe to enable it to glide across your skin.

The probe will then be applied to your chest you may feel pressure and some mild discomfort as the Consultant Cardiologist moves the probe across the area of your heart to capture the information that they require.

You will be provided towels to remove any residual gel and then left to replace any removed clothing.

You will then meet with the Consultant Cardiologist to discuss the findings of the investigation.

Following the appointment the Consultant Cardiologist will prepare a report that will be sent on to you and if required your GP too.

Next Steps

For more information or to find out how to book an appointment then please contact us.