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3 Reasons to Invest in an Echocardiogram

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Medical professionals use all types of diagnostic tests to identify health problems in their patients. One of the diagnostic tests available to modern doctors is an echocardiogram. This test is designed to give your doctor a unique overview of the function of your heart.

Despite the fact that an echocardiogram is a low-risk and minimally invasive procedure, many patients don't invest in these tests as often as they should. Here are three reasons why your doctor might want you to invest in an echocardiogram in the future.

1. Evaluate the Anatomical Structure of the Heart

An echocardiogram uses sound waves to produce an image on a screen. Your doctor can manipulate the wand that emits these sound waves to obtain a clear view of your heart without having to open your body cavity.

Being able to see the heart clearly allows your doctor to evaluate the overall anatomy of this vital organ.

Any abnormalities or malformations that may not show up on other forms of testing can be identified. Without the help of an echocardiogram, many anatomical issues with the heart would go untreated until they cause major medical issues.

2. Check the Function of the Heart

Your heart must function as efficiently as possible in order to circulate blood throughout your body. If one part of the heart fails to perform at maximum capacity, the other parts must overcompensate. This can lead to serious heart problems over time.

An echocardiogram gives your doctor the ability to see how the heart is working.

The results of blood analysis and other diagnostic testing can be combined with an echocardiogram to determine exactly where your heart's performance may be suffering. This information allows your doctor to formulate a treatment plan that will preserve your health over time.

3. Monitor Treatment Progress

An echocardiogram can be a valuable tool when monitoring the progress of treatment for heart-related diseases.

Doctors can use an echocardiogram machine to keep tabs on the growth of tumors, the development of valve issues, and the efficacy of surgical stents.

The images that are generated during an echocardiogram can help identify potential problems early, which gives your doctor time to adjust your treatment plan before your disease or condition develops any further.

If you are concerned about the health and function of your heart, reach out to a clinic such as Alpert Zales & Castro Pediatric Cardiology about taking advantage of the benefits an echocardiogram can offer.


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