An echocardiogram, often called an echo, is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It creates moving images that help doctors assess heart chambers, valves and pumping function. It is different from an ECG, which records the heart’s electrical activity rather than producing images of its structure.
At PrivateScans, we provide echocardiogram appointments with a clear reporting pathway and results within 3 days of your scan. Our team can help you understand how to access your report and what to discuss at follow-up.
What can an echocardiogram show?
An echo can provide information about the size of the heart chambers, how strongly the heart pumps, how the valves open and close, and how blood moves through the heart. It may be used when symptoms or a known condition mean that a doctor needs to assess heart structure and function.
An echo is only one part of an assessment. Depending on symptoms, a doctor may also recommend an ECG, blood tests, other imaging or specialist review. A normal echo does not rule out every possible heart condition.
What happens during a standard echo?
For a transthoracic echocardiogram, you usually lie on a couch, often on your left side. Small sticky electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor heart rhythm. The sonographer applies gel and moves a handheld ultrasound probe over different areas of your chest to obtain images.
The test is generally painless, although pressure from the probe can feel uncomfortable in places. It commonly takes around 30–45 minutes, but timing varies. You can ask about a chaperone or support arrangements before the appointment.
Are there different types of echocardiogram?
A standard transthoracic echo takes images through the chest wall. Other types include stress echocardiography, which assesses the heart during exercise or after medication, and transoesophageal echocardiography, where a probe is passed into the oesophagus to obtain different views. These are different procedures and may have different preparation and safety requirements.
Make sure you know which type has been arranged. Follow the instructions from the provider, particularly if sedation, fasting or additional monitoring is planned.
What might the report include?
The report may describe heart chamber size, pumping function, valve appearance and function, and blood-flow measurements. It may also mention limitations if some views were difficult to obtain. A number or phrase in the report should not be interpreted without the full clinical context.
your doctor will consider the report alongside symptoms, examination, medical history and any other tests. If a result is abnormal, it does not always mean an emergency or a need for treatment; the significance depends on the finding and your circumstances.
How should you prepare?
For many standard echocardiograms, you can eat and drink normally and continue medicines as prescribed, unless your provider tells you otherwise. Wear clothing that is easy to change out of and let the team know if you have an adhesive allergy or need a chaperone.
If you are having a stress or transoesophageal echo, the instructions may be different. Contact the provider if the type of test or preparation is unclear.
What happens after the test?
The images are reviewed and a report is prepared for the doctor looking after your care. You may need a follow-up appointment to discuss the findings or any recommended tests or treatment. Ask when and how you will receive your results.
Seek urgent medical help for severe chest pain, severe breathlessness, collapse or other symptoms that could indicate an emergency. Do not wait for a routine echo appointment or report if you are acutely unwell.
What measurements may appear in an echocardiogram report
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to assess the heart’s chambers, valves and pumping function. A report may describe the size of the chambers, how well the left ventricle contracts, the appearance and movement of valves, and estimates of blood flow or pressure. Ejection fraction is one measure of the proportion of blood pumped out of the left ventricle with each beat, but it is only one part of the assessment.
Measurements must be interpreted in context. A result slightly outside a reference range does not always mean a serious condition, and a reassuring result does not rule out every cause of symptoms. Heart rate, blood pressure, image quality, the reason for the test and other investigations can affect how the findings are understood.
What happens after the report
The reporting doctor or cardiologist considers the images and measurements and communicates the findings to the referring doctor. Depending on the result and symptoms, next steps might include reassurance, monitoring, medication review, an ECG, blood tests, another type of heart investigation or a specialist appointment. Not everyone needs additional testing.
Ask who will explain the result and how you will receive follow-up advice. If the echocardiogram was arranged privately, make sure you know how to share the report with your GP or NHS team if needed. The scan report is one part of the overall assessment and should be considered alongside your symptoms and medical history.
Symptoms that should not wait for a routine echocardiogram
Call 999 for severe chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, collapse or fainting with ongoing symptoms, or other signs of a medical emergency. New or worsening breathlessness, swollen legs, persistent palpitations or reduced exercise tolerance should be assessed by a doctor promptly, especially if they are getting worse.
An echocardiogram is not an emergency treatment and may not be the first investigation needed. If you have new symptoms, seek clinical advice rather than booking a test without assessment. your doctor can decide whether an echocardiogram is appropriate and whether another test or urgent pathway is needed.
Sources and further reading
These NHS resources provide further information. They do not replace individual clinical advice.
This article is for general information only and does not replace an individual assessment or advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Scan suitability and preparation depend on your circumstances and the specific examination. If you are worried about symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional. Seek urgent help for emergency symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about your scan, how to prepare and what happens next.
Is an echocardiogram the same as an ECG?
No. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create images of the heart. An ECG records the electrical activity and rhythm of the heart.
Does an echocardiogram use radiation?
A standard echocardiogram uses ultrasound sound waves, not X-rays.
Can an echo detect every heart problem?
No. It assesses heart structure and function but does not detect every condition. Other tests may be needed depending on symptoms and clinical assessment.
When will I get my echocardiogram results?
The timing varies by service and clinical pathway. Ask the provider who will explain the report and when you should expect to hear.
Ready to arrange your scan?
At PrivateScans, we make arranging your scan straightforward. Appointments can usually be arranged within 1–3 days, and your results are provided within 3 days of your scan. When you’re ready, book online. If you have questions before booking, our team is here to help.