An eco test most likely refers to an echocardiogram, often shortened to "echo." It's a type of ultrasound scan used to examine the heart and nearby blood vessels.
Here's a breakdown:
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Purpose: An echocardiogram allows doctors to visualize the heart's structure and function in real-time. It can help detect a variety of heart problems.
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How it works: The test uses a small probe (transducer) that emits high-frequency sound waves. These waves bounce off the different parts of the heart, creating echoes. A computer processes these echoes to generate moving images of the heart.
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What it shows: An echocardiogram can reveal information about:
- The size and shape of the heart
- The thickness of the heart walls
- How well the heart is pumping
- The function of the heart valves
- The presence of any abnormalities or damage
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Types of Echocardiograms: There are several types of echocardiograms, including:
- Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE): The most common type, where the probe is placed on the chest.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): The probe is inserted down the esophagus to get a clearer picture of the heart.
- Stress echocardiogram: An echocardiogram performed before and after exercise to assess heart function under stress.
- Doppler echocardiogram: A technique that measures the speed and direction of blood flow within the heart.
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Source: Information regarding echocardiograms is readily available at reputable sources such as the NHS inform website.
In summary, an "eco test" generally refers to an echocardiogram, a non-invasive ultrasound test used to assess the structure and function of the heart.
