Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound)
An Echocardiogram, also known as a Cardiac Ultrasound, is a non-invasive test used to assess the structure and function of the heart.
Turnaround time
1 day
Book your test
Choose Service Type
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
+ £{{ home_visit_fee }}
Visit our clinic for your test
{{ clinic_visit_fee > 0 ? '+ £' + clinic_visit_fee : 'Free' }}
Home Visit Details
Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
Select a clinic: Sorting by distance…
{{ clinic.full_address }}
{{ selectedClinic.full_address }}
Select a date
Select an hour
Available time slots: {{ timeSlots.length}}
Details about Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound)
What is an Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound)?
An Echocardiogram is a diagnostic imaging test that uses ultrasound waves to create real-time images of the heart. It allows detailed assessment of the heart chambers, valves, muscle thickness, pumping function and blood flow.
This test provides vital information about how well the heart is working and is widely used to diagnose, monitor and manage a range of cardiac conditions. It does not use radiation and is considered safe and painless.
Echocardiography plays a key role in both preventive cardiovascular screening and investigation of heart-related symptoms.
When an Echocardiogram is recommended
An Echocardiogram may be recommended if there are symptoms or findings suggesting heart disease or abnormal cardiac function.
You may be advised to have this test if you:
- Experience shortness of breath
- Have chest pain or tightness
- Have palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Have a heart murmur detected on examination
- Have high blood pressure affecting the heart
- Have a history of heart disease
- Need monitoring of known cardiac conditions
- Have abnormal ECG or blood test results
What the Echocardiogram assesses
The scan evaluates:
- Heart chamber size and structure
- Heart muscle thickness and movement
- Pumping function (ejection fraction)
- Heart valve structure and function
- Blood flow through the heart (Doppler assessment)
- Presence of fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion)
Benefits of an Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound)
- Comprehensive assessment of heart structure and function
Provides detailed cardiac imaging. - Non-invasive and painless
No needles or radiation exposure. - Detects valve and muscle abnormalities
Identifies heart valve disease and cardiomyopathy. - Assesses heart pumping efficiency
Measures how well the heart circulates blood. - Supports early diagnosis of heart disease
Enables timely management. - Safe and repeatable
Suitable for follow-up and monitoring. - Provides real-time functional assessment
Visualises heart movement and blood flow. - Widely used in cardiovascular care
Standard investigation in cardiology.
How the Echocardiogram is performed
The test is carried out by a trained cardiac sonographer using ultrasound equipment.
- You will lie comfortably on an examination couch
- Ultrasound gel is applied to the chest
- A handheld probe is moved over the chest wall
- Images are captured in real time
The test usually takes 30–45 minutes. No recovery time is required.
Understanding your Echocardiogram results
Normal findings
Heart chambers, valves and pumping function are within expected ranges.
Typical report:
- Normal cardiac structure and function
Structural or functional abnormalities
The scan may show valve disease, reduced pumping function or chamber enlargement.
Typical report:
- Abnormal cardiac findings identified
Reduced heart function
Changes in pumping efficiency may indicate heart muscle weakness.
Typical report:
- Reduced left ventricular function noted
Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, ECG findings and clinical history.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.