Your guide to Echocardiogram
Ultrasound images of the heart and its valves. What to expect, how to prepare and what to ask before booking.
Last reviewed 7 Oct 2026 · Information onlyWhat is it?
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to look at the heart’s structure and how it pumps. It is not the same as an ECG.
What is it used for?
It may assess heart valves, heart muscle function and some causes of breathlessness. New chest pain or sudden breathlessness needs urgent assessment, not an online scan booking.
How does it feel and how long does it take?
For a standard scan, gel and a probe are placed on your chest while you lie on your side. It commonly takes 30 to 40 minutes.
How should I prepare?
A standard chest ultrasound usually needs no special preparation. Other types, such as stress or transoesophageal echocardiograms, have different requirements.
Who needs extra safety checks?
A standard external echocardiogram does not use ionising radiation. Other types carry different risks and require specific clinical advice. Confirm the scan type and who interprets the report.
A scan is not a substitute for clinical assessment. A normal result does not rule out every condition. Partner clinics include a clinician or GP call before the scan to confirm the right test.
Echocardiogram availability and booking
Your chosen provider handles the clinical review and booking. Confirm suitability before the scan.
from £250
Clinician or GP call includedPrices from partner clinics, checked Oct 2026. Final price confirmed before you pay.
Explore other scan guides
Different scans answer different questions. Your clinician can help you choose.
Prices from partner clinics, checked Oct 2026. Final price confirmed before you pay.