What Is an Echocardiogram (Echo) and Why Is It Done?

Ultrasound technology to evaluate heart structure, pumping capacity, and valve function.

What Is an Echocardiogram?

Echocardiography (Echo) is an ultrasound examination of the heart. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed, moving video images of the heart in real time.

This test allows physicians to instantly observe the size of the heart chambers, muscle function, and how effectively the heart valves pump and regulate blood flow.

Why Do Doctors Recommend an Echo?

Heart Failure and Blockages

It plays a critical role in diagnosing chest pain (angina), evaluating post-heart attack muscle damage, and assessing reduced heart pumping capacity or heart failure.

Valve Disorders and Leakage

Doctors use an Echo to evaluate whether the heart valves open fully or if there is backward blood leakage (regurgitation or stenosis).

Congenital Heart Defects

An Echo is essential for detecting congenital heart defects in children and adults, such as structural heart holes or abnormal blood vessel development.

Preparation Before the Test

No Fasting Needed for Standard Echo

A standard transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) does not require fasting. You can eat, drink, and take your prescribed medications normally.

Special Guidelines for Stress Echo

If you are undergoing a Stress Echo (involving exercise on a treadmill or bike), avoid heavy meals for 3 to 4 hours prior to the procedure and wear comfortable, loose cotton clothing and suitable shoes.

Special Preparation for Transesophageal Echo (TEE)

If undergoing a specialized Transesophageal Echo (TEE), where a tiny probe is passed down the esophagus, fast for at least 4 to 6 hours beforehand according to your physician's instructions.

Bring Previous ECGs and Prescriptions

Always bring your previous ECG reports, prescriptions, and any other relevant cardiac medical records for the cardiologist to review on the day of the test.

Estimated Cost of Echocardiogram in Bangladesh

Test Name Government Hospital Private Diagnostic Center
2D Echocardiography (Standard Echo) ৳ 800 - ৳ 1,000 ৳ 1,500 - ৳ 2,000
Color Doppler Echocardiography ৳ 1,000 - ৳ 1,500 ৳ 2,500 - ৳ 3,500
Stress Echocardiography (Stress Echo) ৳ 1,500 - ৳ 2,500 ৳ 4,000 - ৳ 6,000
Pediatric Echocardiography (Children's Echo) ৳ 1,000 - ৳ 1,500 ৳ 3,000 - ৳ 4,000

Key Indicator in Your Echo Report

57% - 70%

Normal Heart Pumping Capacity (EF Level)

What Is Ejection Fraction (EF)? The most critical value in an Echo report is Ejection Fraction (EF %). In simple terms, EF measures the percentage of blood your heart pumps out with each contraction.

 

Understanding Normal and Low Ranges:

  • 55% to 70%: Your heart’s pumping capacity is healthy and normal.
  • Below 50%: May indicate weakened heart muscle or signs of heart failure (requires physician consultation).

Do you have any questions?

An echocardiogram is a completely safe, painless procedure with no side effects. Always trust expert medical advice to keep your heart healthy.

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