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An echocardiogram uses sound waves to tell doctors how well your heart is working. It's a type of ultrasound test.

For this test, an instrument that sends and picks up sound signals is put on your chest. The sounds (echoes) it picks up appear on a screen as a picture.

This test is safe and it doesn't hurt.

From this test, your doctor can tell:

• How well your heart chambers fill with blood and pump it to the rest of your body
• If your heart muscle has any damage
• If your heart is a normal size
• If your heart valves are working properly.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.