Your Appointment: How Long Does An Echocardiogram Take?
When it comes to your heart health, understanding what to expect during medical appointments can alleviate anxiety and simplify your experience. If you’re scheduled to attend an echo appointment, you might be wondering how long does an echocardiogram take and what does the process involve?
In this blog post, we’ll break down the duration of an echocardiogram, what happens during the test, and what to expect in terms of results and preparations.
What happens during an Echocardiogram test?
During the test, you’ll lie on an examination couch while one of our Doctors applies a gel to your chest and places small electrodes on your skin. These electrodes help to capture the sound waves produced by your heart.
A transducer is then moved over your chest, emitting ultrasound waves that create moving images of your heart. The Doctor may ask you to change positions to capture various views. It’s a painless and non-invasive procedure that provides valuable insights into your heart’s structure and function.
How long does an Echocardiogram take?
An echocardiogram appointment typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, which includes both the preparation for the test and the actual procedure. The echocardiogram itself generally takes about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case and the specific views needed for a comprehensive assessment of your heart.
How long does it take to get results?
At EchoMed, our Doctors perform the tests themselves, so you get your results immediately at the appointment. You will be talked through your images and any findings whilst at our clinic, and will then be sent a full report and letter within 24 hours of your appointment.
If requested, your GP will also be sent a copy.
How do you prepare?
Preparing for an echocardiogram is relatively straightforward. You should wear comfortable clothing and avoid heavy meals before the test. You may take any regular medications as usual. Arriving a little early can help ease any nerves and allow time to review your history in detail.
In summary, while your echocardiogram appointment will take a little time, the insights gained into your heart health are invaluable. With a skilled team like EchoMed and the variety of services available, you can feel confident in your heart health journey.
If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your health is our priority!
ECG testing
In addition to echocardiograms, we also offer various types of ECG tests, including resting ECGs, which measure the heart’s electrical activity while you are at rest, and exercise or stress ECGs, which assess how your heart performs under physical activity.
We also deliver Holter monitoring, which is a type of continuous (or ‘ambulatory) ECG, and can also be conducted to track your heart rhythm over an extended period. Each type of test serves a specific purpose and can provide insights into your cardiovascular health.
Getting stress & ambulatory ECG results
For resting or exercise (stress) ECGs, you will receive your results immediately. Copies of your results will then be emailed to you and your GP within 24 hours of your appointment. If further tests are needed, your healthcare provider will discuss the next steps with you.
After your appointment, you are welcome to keep in touch with your Doctor via email.
For ambulatory (Holter) ECGs, the device is posted to our data centre for analysis. Your results will then follow within 24 hours.
The specialist EchoMed team
The EchoMed team consists of highly trained Doctors who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and a comfortable experience. Our team includes experienced and award-winning Heart Specialists, accredited by the British Society of Echocardiography. They work collaboratively to ensure that you receive a comprehensive assessment of your heart health. Their expertise and attention to detail ensure that you are in good hands throughout the entire process.
