When you’re experiencing heart problems, you need a highly skilled specialist with years of experience. That’s Dr. Fahmi Farah at Bentley Heart in Fort Worth, Texas.
As a board-certified invasive and nuclear cardiologist and an adjunct professor of medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, she is one of the state’s leading heart specialists and can help you understand your heart problems.
Dr. Farah often turns to two tried-and-true tests with similar-sounding names among her many diagnostic tools. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of echocardiograms and electrocardiograms
These two heart-monitoring tests use different technologies to gather information.
An echocardiogram (echo) is an ultrasound-based test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of your heart’s structure and function.
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is an electrical test that measures the electrical activity of your heart using electrodes on your skin.
Echoes and EKGs detect different cardiac issues.
Dr. Farah determines which test to use based on your symptoms.
Each test gives Dr. Farah unique information about your heart health, which helps her diagnose your conditions and develop the right treatment plan.
The echo gives Dr. Farah a visual and functional assessment of your heart, allowing her to see how it beats and pumps blood. This test provides her insights into structural abnormalities and tissue damage and lets her see if there’s fluid around your heart.
The EKG records the electrical signals from your heart, helping Dr. Farah detect irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), past heart attacks, and other electrical cardiac issues.
Knowing when to use which test is Dr. Farah’s area of expertise. In general, here are some indicators for each.
You might need an echo if you have:
You might need an EKG if you:
In some cases, Dr. Farah may order both tests.
Both the echo and the EKG are noninvasive and painless. Here’s what to expect:
Neither test has side effects nor requires downtime.
Typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the level of detail required.
Usually lasts about 5 to 10 minutes.
Results are typically available within a few hours to a few days.
Results are usually available immediately, allowing for quick diagnosis and treatment if necessary.
Both echocardiograms and electrocardiograms are invaluable tools in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions. If you’re experiencing heart issues, call Bentley Heart or book online to talk with Dr. Farah about which cardiology test will help you get the answers and treatment you need.