Heart health is a topic of utmost importance. The good news is that medical advancements continue to improve our ability to detect and diagnose various cardiac conditions.
One such technology that has revolutionized cardiovascular care is the echocardiogram. Find out more about echocardiogram at related procedures on this page: https://sunriseheart.com.sg/cardiac-investigations/.
This blog post explores echocardiogram’s purpose, benefits, and potential role in detecting heart blockages. So, by the end of this article, you should have a comprehensive understanding of echocardiograms, if they can detect heart blockages, and, most importantly, how they contribute to the evaluation of heart health.
Can Echo Detect Heart Blockage?
To begin, an echocardiogram is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create real-time images of the heart. It allows your heart specialist to visualize your heart’s structures and assess its function.
It also allows them to identify potential abnormalities in the heart. The burning question on many minds—especially if your doctor has referred you for an echocardiogram in Singapore is whether it can detect heart blockages.
Here’s a direct answer, an echocardiogram is a valuable tool in assessing heart health. But, it may not directly detect coronary artery blockages.
However, it can provide crucial information that aids in the evaluation of heart blockages indirectly. There are different types of echocardiograms.
These include the commonly used transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) and the more specialized transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). These tests can provide valuable information about your heart’s overall health. Thanks to these pieces of information, your cardiologist can make accurate an diagnosis and develop appropriate treatment plan designed just for you.
So, Can you have a Normal Echo and still have Blocked Arteries?
During your echocardiogram in Singapore, your heart specialist will assess several measurements and features to get proper insights into your heart’s health. The ejection fraction is one such measurement that indicates the heart’s pumping efficiency.
A normal ejection fraction typically ranges between 50% and 70%. A reduced ejection fraction may suggest a weakened heart muscle or compromised blood flow.
Another important aspect evaluated during an echocardiogram is the assessment of wall motion abnormalities. These abnormalities may indicate areas of the heart muscle not receiving adequate blood supply due to narrowed or blocked arteries.
Now, even though the wall motion abnormalities can be indicative of a compromised blood flow, they do not directly confirm the presence of blocked arteries. So, the echocardiogram can provide valuable information but it is not the primary diagnostic tool for detecting blocked arteries.
If your heart specialist suspects the presence of blocked arteries based on symptoms or other risk factors, they may recommend further testing for you. A good example of the tests you may be recommended in this case is the angiogram.
It may specifically be recommended if you experience worrisome symptoms that are suggestive of a heart attack. It may also be suggested if you have risk factors for coronary artery disease.
An angiogram is an invasive diagnostic procedure that involves the injection of a contrast dye into the arteries. The doctors would then use X-ray imaging to visualize blood flow.
It allows the heart specialist to directly assess the presence and severity of blockages in the coronary arteries. Echocardiograms, on the other hand, are used in varied clinical scenarios to assess heart health.
Your heart doctor may recommend an echocardiogram in Singapore if you experience or exhibit symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations. If you have pre-existing heart issues, an echocardiogram may also be performed as part of routine cardiac evaluations and for monitoring your health. Your heart specialist will determine if an echocardiogram is necessary based on your symptoms, medical history, and individual risk factors.
What are the Benefits of Echocardiogram?
The fact that an echocardiogram does not detect blocked arteries doesn’t make it less helpful. Here are some of the notable advantages you may want to know about when getting ready for your echocardiogram in Singapore;
- Non-Invasive and Painless Procedure: Echocardiograms are non-invasive, meaning they do not require any surgical incisions or instruments inserted into the body. This makes the procedure well-tolerated by patients. Its non-invasive nature also helps eliminate the need for anesthesia and reduce the risk of complications associated with invasive procedures. The non-invasive nature of echocardiograms also allows for repeated evaluations over time to monitor changes in heart health.
- Real-time Imaging Capabilities: One of the significant advantages of echocardiograms is their ability to provide real-time imaging of the heart. This means that your heart doctor can visualize your heart’s structures and assess its function immediately during the procedure. Real-time imaging allows for the dynamic evaluation of the heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow, providing valuable insights into the heart’s overall health and detecting abnormalities or irregularities.
- Comprehensive Evaluation of the Heart: Echocardiograms offer a thorough evaluation of the heart, providing valuable information beyond just the measurement of ejection fraction and wall motion abnormalities. These tests enable healthcare providers to assess valve function, detect abnormal heart rhythms, and evaluate overall cardiac performance.
- Aid in Accurate Diagnoses and Personalized Treatment Plans: The comprehensive evaluation provided by echocardiograms plays a crucial role in making accurate diagnoses and developing personalized treatment plans. Your heart doctor can identify underlying conditions or abnormalities that may require specific interventions or ongoing management by assessing multiple aspects of the heart’s health. This information allows for tailored treatment plans that address individual patient needs, potentially leading to improved outcomes and better overall heart health.
The Bottom Line
Echocardiograms play a crucial role in evaluating heart health. However, they may not directly detect coronary artery blockages.
Thanks to the valuable insights into the heart’s structure and function they give, echocardiograms can contribute to the overall assessment of cardiac conditions. If you have concerns about your heart health, consult with an experienced healthcare provider to help you understand if you may need an echocardiogram.
Do you need an echocardiogram in Singapore but are unsure where to get one or where to start? We can help. Get in touch with our team now to schedule your consultation. Remember that early detection and timely intervention are key to maintaining a healthy heart. Call or contact us at:
Sunrise Heart Clinic – Heart Check Up | Treadmill ECG Test | Echocardiogram
365 Sembawang Cres,
#01-02,
Singapore 750365