WHAT IS AN ECHOCARDIOGRAM?

An Echocardiogram (Echo) is a type of ultrasound exam, which allows cardiologists to view the heart. A registered sonographer will apply a gel to the area of the chest then place a small transducer on the skin to take pictures of the heart that allow the cardiologist to see the heart structure, blood flow etc. The Echo can be an invaluable tool in ruling out the presence of Hypertrophic Cardiomyoapathy (HCM), also known as the enlarged heart, and obstruction of blood flow to the heart. While no tests or screenings can uncover every heart problem, echocardiograms are one of the best tools we have to detect HCM. Screenings are performed by an experienced, registered sonographer and take only 5 to 10 minutes. The tests are evaluated by a cardiologist here in Georgia. Should any abnormalities be detected a recommendation will be made to the student’s parents/guardian to follow up with a physician of their choice for consultation/treatment.