Echocardiogram

You might feel slightly nervous about having an echocardiogram carried out for the first time if you don’t know what to expect. Rest assured that this type of test is painless and usually only takes 30 to 45 minutes. You likely won’t feel or notice anything while the scan takes place.

Here’s what it will involve:

1. You’ll be asked to remove any clothing covering your upper half. 

2. You’ll be given a gown to put on that’s open at the front. 

3. You may be given an injection of contrast agent (dye) to help make the images clearer.

4. You’ll be asked to lie on the couch. 

5. 3 small stickers will be attached to your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm during the test. 

6. You’ll usually be asked to lie on your left side. This is to improve the image quality of the echocardiogram. 

7. Your consultant will take the images by placing the ultrasound gel and probe (a handheld wand) on your chest. You may feel some pressure from the wand against your chest.

8. They’ll move the probe around your chest to give different views of your heart. 

9. When your consultant has taken enough images, they’ll wipe any remaining gel from your skin, and the test is complete.

10. You’ll be able to get dressed and leave.

An echocardiogram itself doesn’t harm your health or come with any potential complications. This is because ultrasound scans are very safe and don’t involve radiation like X-ray scans.

If you were given a contrast agent, there’s a small chance of mild allergic reactions such as headaches or rashes. Severe allergic reactions are rare. If you feel unwell after an injection of contrast agent, be sure to let your consultant know.

Your consultant will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your echocardiogram. 

You may need to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine in the run-up to the test. You should keep taking any medications unless your consultant advises otherwise. Your consultant will tell you if you need to stop eating or drinking for a period of time before the test.

There are no special recovery or aftercare instructions to follow after an echocardiogram. You’ll be able to go about your normal activities after your scan.

Your consultant will explain how and when you’ll get your results, what your next steps will be, and whether you’ll need any follow-up appointments.

The self-pay price for a private echocardiogram is £720.

At Welbeck, our cardiologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book an echocardiogram, you must be referred by either your GP or a cardiologist following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a cardiologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.