An echocardiogram, often called an "echo," is a simple, non-invasive ultrasound test that lets your doctor see how your heart is working in real time.

Using sound waves, this test creates live images of your heart—showing how well it’s pumping, how your heart valves are functioning, and whether there are any structural issues or signs of conditions like heart failure or valve disease.

Echocardiograms are:

• Safe and painless

• Typically completed in under an hour

• Essential for both diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions

If you have an existing heart condition, regular echocardiograms help your cardiologist catch any changes early—before symptoms start—so you can get the care you need right away. Following through with recommended echo testing is a powerful way to stay ahead of heart problems and support long-term heart health.