Difference between ECG and ECHO tests: Understand heart health with this crucial guide

The Electrocardiogram (ECG) and the Echocardiogram (ECHO) are two of the most often used tests during heart treatment. (Image: canva)

Diagnostic tests are essential in the field of cardiology for evaluating heart health and identifying potential problems. The electrocardiogram (ECG) and the echocardiogram (ECHO) are two of the most commonly used tests. Both serve different purposes and provide unique insights into the anatomy and functioning of the heart, even though they are both crucial for the diagnosis and monitoring of cardiac disorders. Understanding the differences between these tests can help patients better comprehend their diagnoses and treatment options.

What is an ECG?

An electrocardiogram, or ECG, is a test that measures the heart's electrical activity, says Dr Sanjeev Chaudhary, clinical director, cardiology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram. It uses electrodes applied to the skin to record electrical signals and monitor the heart's rhythm. The primary purpose of an ECG is to identify irregularities in cardiac rhythm and electrical conduction, which may indicate various minor cardiac illnesses.

Purposes and uses

ECGs are essential for diagnosing arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation, says Dr Chaudhary.

Recognising heart attack: An ECG may display patterns that suggest a recent or past heart attack.

Tracking heart health: For patients with established heart conditions, routine ECGs can monitor the state of their heart.

How is an ECG performed?

It is a short, painless, and non-invasive procedure. The electrical activity of the heart is recorded for a few minutes after electrodes are applied to the arms, legs, and chest, says Dr Chaudhary. A doctor interprets the data, which is displayed as a series of waves on a graph, to identify any potential issues.

What is echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram, or ECHO, is a type of ultrasound exam that uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It provides healthcare professionals with a detailed view of the heart's anatomy and physiology, enabling them to diagnose structural abnormalities and assess how effectively the heart is pumping blood.

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Purposes and uses

Assessing the heart's chambers and valves: ECHO studies provide information about how well the heart pumps blood.

Identifying structural problems: They can detect conditions such as cardiomyopathy, congenital heart defects, and valve disorders.

Monitoring progress: ECHOs are used to track changes in heart function over time, particularly in patients with heart failure.

How is an ECHO performed?

A transducer is applied to the chest during the test, generating sound waves that bounce off the heart and appear as images on a screen. The non-invasive exam typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes to complete. It can be used to assess heart function under stress, either at rest or during exercise (stress echo).

Key differences between ECG and ECHO

Function vs structure: The ECG primarily focusses on the heart's electrical activity and rhythm, whereas the ECHO provides detailed images of the heart's structure and function.

Procedure and duration: ECGs are a straightforward procedure, taking only a few minutes on average. ECHOs take longer—often up to an hour—and are more comprehensive.

Information provided: ECGs are ideal for detecting heart attacks and arrhythmias. ECHOs are better suited for assessing structural abnormalities and overall cardiac function.

Both the ECG and ECHO tests are indispensable cardiology tools that offer different perspectives on heart health.