Echocardiogram Scan Referral

• Breathlessness
• Discomfort in the chest
• Swelling in the ankles or legs
• Presence of heart murmurs
• Episodes of dizziness or fainting
• Arrhythmias (Palpitations)

Note: If you are experiencing acute chest pain, severe difficulty breathing, or sudden collapse, do not seek an online consultation. Call 000 immediately or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

An echocardiogram can help identify the following conditions:

• Heart valve issues, such as narrowing or leaking of the heart valves.
• Heart failure: characterised by a diminished ability of the heart to pump effectively.
• Congenital heart defects: structural irregularities in the heart present since birth.
• Cardiomyopathy: that entails either thickening or weakening of the heart muscle.
• Fluid surrounding the heart: indicating a buildup of fluid in the sac encasing the heart.

Various echocardiograms may be used based on the specific clinical scenario.

• Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) – a standard ultrasound of the chest area.
• Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) – involves placing a probe into the esophagus for clearer imaging.
• Stress echocardiogram – performed both before and after physical activity or medication.
• Doppler echocardiogram – assesses blood flow through the heart.

An echocardiogram displays the heart’s anatomy, the size of its chambers, its pumping capability, blood flow patterns, and the movement of its valves. It is useful for evaluating how well the heart is functioning.

• The quality of images can differ based on body type or lung issues.
• A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) may necessitate sedation.
• Additional cardiac tests might sometimes be required.
• It does not provide a direct evaluation of the coronary arteries.

Note: While an online GP can discuss your heart-related concerns and provide a referral if appropriate, telehealth has limitations. Specifically, a physical examination such as a GP listening to your heart for murmurs or checking for fluid in the legs cannot be performed remotely. You may be advised to see a GP in person for these assessments.

• For a transthoracic echocardiogram, no special preparations are necessary.
• Fasting might be needed for a transesophageal echocardiogram.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Notify the healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking.