Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound) Diagnostic Imaging

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create live pictures of the heart.

Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound) procedure illustration

Overview

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create live pictures of the heart. A small handheld device called a transducer is placed on the chest to show the heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow. Clinicians use it to look for problems with heart function and structure, such as weakened pumping, valve narrowing or leakage, thickened heart muscle, or fluid around the heart. It does not use radiation.

Overview Preparation Clinical Info Recovery FAQ References

Also known as: Cardiac ultrasound, Echo, Transthoracic echo (TTE), Transesophageal echo (TEE), Stress echocardiogram

Recovery
0–1 days
Return to Work
0–1 days

Preparation & Next Steps

Everything you need to know before and after your procedure

Before Care

  • Bring a list of your medicines, allergies, and recent heart tests or imaging
  • Wear a two-piece outfit; you may need to undress from the waist up
  • Avoid lotions or oils on the chest the day of the test so the ultrasound gel works well
  • Confirm whether your test is a standard transthoracic echo, stress echo, or TEE
  • If scheduled for a TEE or stress echo, ask about fasting instructions and timing
  • Arrange a ride if sedation is planned for TEE, as driving is typically restricted afterward
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes if a stress echocardiogram is planned
  • Tell the team about any prior reactions to ultrasound contrast agents or anesthesia
  • Arrive a bit early to check in and complete consent or screening forms

After Care

  • You can usually wipe off the gel and return to normal activities after a transthoracic echo
  • If you had a stress echo, expect mild fatigue or muscle soreness like a workout
  • If contrast was used, follow any instructions provided by the imaging team
  • If you had a TEE, throat soreness or hoarseness may occur and typically improves within 1 to 2 days
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery the day of sedation after a TEE
  • Resume food and drink as advised after TEE once swallowing feels normal
  • Review how and when you will receive results or a report summary
  • Contact the care team if you develop persistent chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, fever, or worsening swallowing pain after a TEE
  • Keep a copy of the report for your records and future comparisons

Clinical Information

Important medical details about this procedure

Indications

  • Heart murmur evaluation
  • Shortness of breath or swelling possibly due to heart failure
  • Chest pain or prior heart attack follow-up
  • Known or suspected valve disease
  • Cardiomyopathy or enlarged heart
  • Congenital (birth) heart defects
  • Pericardial effusion or tamponade concern
  • Pulmonary hypertension assessment
  • Atrial fibrillation or other irregular rhythms
  • Preoperative heart function assessment

Alternatives

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
  • Chest X-ray
  • Cardiac MRI
  • Cardiac CT
  • Stress test without imaging
  • Nuclear stress imaging
  • Cardiac catheterization

Risks

  • Minor skin irritation or pressure discomfort from the probe
  • Allergic reaction to ultrasound gel or adhesive (rare)
  • If contrast is used: risk of allergic reaction (rare)
  • If TEE: sore throat, hoarseness, or temporary difficulty swallowing
  • If TEE: risks from sedation such as drowsiness or nausea
  • If TEE: very rare injury or bleeding in the esophagus

Contraindications

  • For TEE: known esophageal tears, strictures, or recent esophageal surgery
  • For TEE: active upper GI bleeding or severe bleeding risk
  • For TEE: unstable airway or inability to tolerate sedation

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery

Most people resume normal activities right after a standard transthoracic echocardiogram. If the test involves sedation (TEE) or exercise (stress echo), some people take the rest of the day to recover.

Typical Range

0–1 days

Return to Work

0–1 days

Recovery Milestones

Day 0

Resume usual activities after a standard transthoracic echo

Day 0–1

Recover from exercise-related fatigue after a stress echo

Day 0–1

Let sedation wear off after TEE before driving or important decisions

Day 1–2

Throat soreness from TEE typically improves

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and expert answers about this procedure

What does an echocardiogram show?

It shows the size and shape of the heart, how well it pumps, how the valves open and close, and the direction and speed of blood flow.

How long does the test take?

A standard echocardiogram usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Stress echo or TEE may take longer because of preparation and monitoring.

Is there radiation?

No. It uses ultrasound waves, not X-rays.

What is the difference between TTE and TEE?

TTE is done on the chest surface. TEE uses a thin probe in the esophagus for closer images, often with sedation.

Will it hurt?

Most people feel only mild pressure from the probe. TEE may cause a brief sore throat afterward.

Do I need to fast or stop medicines?

Fasting is commonly required for TEE and sometimes for stress echo. Instructions vary by facility, so confirm ahead of time.

Are contrast agents used?

Sometimes a small amount of ultrasound contrast is injected to improve image quality. Reactions are uncommon but possible.

When will I get results?

Preliminary impressions may be available the same day. The final report is typically ready after a cardiologist reviews the images.