What is getting an echocardiogram like?

Echocardiogram: There are two ways to get an echocardiogram. The simplest and least invasive is essentially an ultrasound, like the one they use to check on unborn babies in their mother's womb. It is painless. The other one is a transesophageal echocardiogram, which involves putting the device down through your mouth and throat into the esophagus. It has the advantage of seeing better, but more invasive.

Echocardiogram: This is a non-invasive heart examination with ultrasound much like an obstetric ultrasound study except that it is directed at the heart. It is generally painless and involves no radiation exposure. Of all cardiac studies, it probably tells us more about cardiac structure and function than any other cardiac test. Don't worry about having one done!