Echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) for children and infants
Echocardiography is a safe and painless examination that allows the doctor to carefully evaluate the structure, function, and valve function of the child's heart. This examination helps to detect possible changes in time and to ensure the health of the child's heart, both preventively and if there are any complaints.
What is it?
Echocardiography (EchoKG), or cardiac ultrasound for children, is a safe, painless, and accurate test that allows the doctor to see how a child's heart is working. The test is performed with an ultrasound machine – similar to how a baby is examined during pregnancy.
An echocardiogram can see how the heart contracts, how the heart valves work, how blood flows through the heart, and whether the heart's dimensions are appropriate for the child's age.
This test helps to detect various heart conditions or diseases in time, as well as to monitor an already known heart problem. The examination is completely safe for infants and children of any age, as it does not involve X-rays, is painless, and does not cause any discomfort. Many children even watch the screen with interest, where they see the “moving heart”.
How is it done?
During the examination, the child usually lies on his back on a special couch. The doctor applies a transparent gel to the chest, which helps the ultrasound probe see the heart better. The image is displayed on a monitor, where the doctor can see the child's heart movements and blood flow. To make the procedure more interesting and reduce anxiety, children can watch colorful lights or animations to help keep their attention.
For younger children who do not yet feel safe, the examination can be performed on a parent's lap – this gives the child a sense of warmth and security.
The examination usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the child's age and cooperation.
When is it needed?
The doctor may recommend a cardiac ultrasound for a child if:
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the child is short of breath or breathing rapidly;
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heart murmurs or suspicion of heart disease;
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the child has had episodes of fainting or rapid heartbeat;
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it is necessary to check the heart after a previous infection (for example, streptococcal or viral infection);
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a congenital heart problem should be monitored, or heart function should be monitored during treatment;
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the doctor wants to make sure the heart is working properly before a planned surgery,
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in other cases, upon the doctor's advice.
How to prepare?
No special preparation is required for cardiac ultrasound, but some recommendations will help the procedure go smoothly and quickly:
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Bring the child's previous tests with you, if they were done elsewhere – they will help the doctor compare heart measurements.
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Explain to your child that the doctor will only “look at the heart with a special camera” – this will help reduce anxiety.
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Choose comfortable clothing for your child that is easy to take off or allows the chest to be exposed.
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Avoid using creams or oils on the chest so that the gel and probe can make good contact with the skin.
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For younger children, you can bring a stuffed animal or pacifier to help them feel more secure.
Learn how to prepare for a doctor's consultation at the Medica Riga clinic.