Echocardiogram vs. Electrocardiogram: What’s the Difference?  

When it comes to heart health, two important tests that doctors may recommend are the echocardiogram (echo) and the electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). Though they sound similar, these tests serve different purposes and provide valuable insights into your heart’s health. Let’s break down what each test does, how they’re different, and why they might be important for you. 

What is an Echocardiogram (Echo)? 

An echocardiogram is a detailed test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart. It’s similar to the ultrasound that’s used during pregnancy, but instead of looking at a baby, it looks at your heart. This test lets doctors see how your heart is pumping, how well your heart valves are working, and if there are any problems with the heart’s structure. 

During the test, a special gel is applied to your chest, and a small device called a transducer is moved around on your chest. The transducer sends sound waves into your heart, which bounce back to create a moving image of your heart on a screen. 

An echocardiogram can help doctors: 

• See how well your heart is pumping blood
• Check whether your heart valves are working properly
• Look for any damage to the heart from a heart attack or other conditions

An echo usually takes around 30 minutes and is painless and non-invasive.

What is an Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)? 

An electrocardiogram (EKG), on the other hand, is a quick, simple test that checks the electrical activity of your heart. It measures how your heart beats, whether the rhythm is normal, and how strong the electrical signals are as they travel through your heart. 

During the test, small sticky patches (called electrodes) are placed on your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes pick up the heart’s electrical signals and send them to a machine that produces a printout, showing your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity. 

An EKG can help doctors: 

• Detect irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) 
• Check for signs of heart attacks or damage 
• Monitor heart health over time 

An EKG is quick, is also painless, and usually takes just a few minutes to complete. 

How Are They Different? 

• What They Measure:
  • EKG: Measures the electrical signals of your heart. 
  • Echo: Takes pictures of your heart’s structure and movement. 
• Why They’re Done:
  • EKG: Used to check for irregular heart rhythms or heart attack damage. 
  • Echo: Used to assess how well the heart is pumping, how the valves are working, and to look for structural issues. 

The Process: 

• EKG: Involves sticking electrodes to your chest for a few minutes. 
• Echo: Uses a gel and a transducer to create images of your heart over about 30 minutes. 
• What They Show:
  • EKG: Shows your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity. 
  • Echo: Shows pictures of your heart and how well it’s working. 

Which One Do You Need? 

• Both tests can be important tools in understanding your heart health. Your doctor will decide which test is best based on your symptoms, risk factors, and overall heart health. If you’re experiencing symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, an EKG or an echo might be part of the process to help your doctor understand what’s going on. 
• At Covenant Health, we offer both EKGs and echocardiograms, along with other heart health services, to help you take care of your heart. If you have questions about your heart health, or if you’re due for a checkup, reach out to us to schedule an appointment today. Go to our Find a Doctor page if you need help finding a primary care physician or heart specialist.