Understanding Echocardiogram Results: What Do They Mean

Echocardiograms play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring heart conditions, providing detailed insights into the heart's structure and function. However, understanding the results of an echocardiogram can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the technical jargon and measurements involved. In this blog post, we'll delve into the common elements found in an echocardiogram report and shed light on their significance. Ejection Fraction (EF): The ejection fraction measures the percentage of blood that the heart pumps out with each contraction. Typically, a healthy EF ranges between 50% and 70%. If the EF is lower, it may indicate a weakened heart muscle or heart failure. Wall Motion Abnormalities: The echocardiogram evaluates how the heart walls move during each heartbeat. Any irregularities in wall motion can suggest areas of the heart that aren't contracting normally, which might indicate a previous heart attack or the presence of coronary artery disease. Valvu...