ECG, Echo, or TMT?

What Is an Echo?

An echocardiogram, commonly called an Echo, is an ultrasound examination of the heart. It uses sound waves to create images that help doctors assess the heart's structure and function.

Unlike an ECG, which primarily evaluates electrical activity, an Echo allows the doctor to examine how the heart looks and moves.

An Echo can assess:

• Heart chambers
• Heart muscle movement
• Pumping function
• Heart valves
• Blood flow
• Thickness of heart walls
• Certain structural abnormalities

It can be particularly useful when a doctor suspects heart failure, valve disease, structural heart problems, or other conditions affecting how the heart functions.

When Is an Echo Recommended?

Your doctor may recommend an Echo if you have:

• Shortness of breath
• A heart murmur
• Suspected valve disease
• Heart failure symptoms
• Abnormal ECG findings
• Swelling of the legs
• Known heart disease
• Certain congenital heart conditions

The exact type of echocardiogram depends on the clinical question. A standard transthoracic Echo is performed externally through the chest and is commonly used to evaluate heart structure and function.

What Is a TMT?

A TMT, or Treadmill Test, is an exercise stress test used to evaluate how the heart responds when the body is physically active.