ECG and echocardiography: checking your heart
What is an ECG?
An electrocardiogram records the heart's electrical activity. It gives information about rhythm disturbances, signs of ischaemia and traces of past heart attacks.
What is an echocardiogram?
Echocardiography uses ultrasound to show the heart's structure and pumping function. Valves and pumping strength are assessed.
Who should be checked?
People with chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, high blood pressure or risk factors. Both tests are painless and need no preparation.
This is general patient education, not individual medical advice. Do not stop or change medicines yourself. Fast or make other preparations only when instructed by your care team.
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