Echocardiogram vs. $49 Heart Scan: Which one should you get?

Introduction:

Your heart is one of the most vital organs in your body. So, when it comes to diagnosing potential heart issues, it's important to choose the right test. With so many different heart screening options available, it can be challenging to know which one is the best for you. In this blog post, we'll explore why you should choose an echocardiogram over a $49 heart scan.

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is a heart ultrasound that uses sound wave technology to create detailed images of your heart. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of your heart's function and structure, including the valves, chambers, and blood flow. The test can detect a range of conditions, such as heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, and abnormalities in the heart's rhythm.

In an echo exam, sonographers take around 40 or more images and video of several areas of your heart and heart valves. It's a very detailed and comprehensive exam that can recognize several heart diseases and abnormalities. It's a go-to exam for cardiologists and family doctors.

Why choose an echo over a $49 heart scan?

While a $49 heart scan may seem like an affordable option, it may not be the most effective way to diagnose heart problems. Heart scans use computed tomography (CT) to create images of your heart. While these scans can detect calcium build-up in your arteries, they can't provide the same level of detail as an echocardiogram. Echocardiograms can detect a wider range of issues and provide a more comprehensive evaluation of your heart's health.

Who is NOT a good candidate for a heart scan?

If you already have plaque buildup in your coronary artery (that's the blood vessel that supplies your heart), or if you're a low-risk individual, especially if you're under 40, you shouldn't go for this test because it's unlikely to make a difference to your treatment. If you've had a serious heart attack before, you're probably already taking statins. And if you're at low risk, you don't really need them. But for those in the middle-risk category, who are between 40 and 75 years old, and have a 10-year risk of heart disease or stroke that's between 7.5% to 20%, you might want to consider a calcium scan. You can find a calculator for your risk assessment at /heart risk.

To summarize, if you already know you have plaque in your arteries, or have had a heart attack, then a heart scan is not the best choice for you. You also may want to consider a Carotid artery ultrasound, and you can always call us to get more specific answers.

Additional advantage of an echo vs. heart scans

Another advantage of an echocardiogram is that it's non-invasive, meaning it doesn't involve radiation exposure, which can be harmful over time. Heart scans, on the other hand, use radiation, which can increase your risk of cancer over time

How much does an echocardiogram cost?

The cost of an echocardiogram varies depending on where you live and the facility where the test is performed. The average cost of an echocardiogram in the United States is around $2,000. However, some healthcare providers may charge as little as $500 or as much as $5,000 for the same test.

If you're worried about the cost of an echocardiogram, don't panic. Some insurance plans cover the cost of diagnostic tests, including echocardiograms. If you're uninsured or underinsured, you can also find affordable echocardiogram services at Atlanta Ultrasound.

What to expect during an echocardiogram

During an echocardiogram, you'll lie down on an examination table, and a technician will apply a gel to your chest. They'll then move a transducer over your chest to produce images of your heart. The test usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes, and it's painless and non-invasive.

While a $49 heart scan may be a tempting option...

it's important to remember that it may not provide the comprehensive evaluation of your heart's health that an echocardiogram can. If you're concerned about your heart health, it's worth investing in an echocardiogram to get a more accurate diagnosis. An echocardiogram is a non-invasive, painless, and effective way to evaluate your heart's function and detect any potential issues early on. Your heart health is too important to leave to chance, so choose an echocardiogram over a $49 heart scan.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post! We hope that you found the information helpful and informative. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms that may require an echocardiogram, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us at Atlanta Ultrasound. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to our patients.

To schedule an echocardiogram, or other ultrasound in Atlanta, please visit our website at www.atlantaultrasound.com or give us a call at 678-590-3300. Our friendly staff is available to answer any questions you may have and to help you schedule an appointment at a time that is convenient for you.

Don't put your heart health on hold. Schedule your echocardiogram today!

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/carotid-ultrasound/about/pac-20393399

https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/do-you-need-a-calcium-scan