
Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound Scan) – Private Echocardiography in Reading
An echocardiogram (echo) is a non-invasive ultrasound scan of the heart that uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. It is commonly used to assess the heart chambers, heart valves, pumping function and blood flow through the heart.
At The Berkshire Clinic, our private echocardiogram service in Reading is performed by experienced cardiac physiologists, with all scans reviewed by a consultant cardiologist.
An echocardiogram may be recommended to investigate symptoms or concerns including:
What happens during an echocardiogram?
During your appointment, you will be asked to lie on a comfortable couch in a dimly lit room while the cardiac physiologist performs the scan. You will need to undress from the waist up and a hospital gown will be provided for your comfort and privacy.
A small ultrasound probe with gel will be gently moved across different areas of your chest to capture images of your heart. The procedure is painless and usually takes approximately 30 minutes.
If you would like a chaperone present during your examination, please let us know when booking your appointment or when you arrive at the clinic, and we will be happy to arrange this.
Following your scan, the cardiac physiologist will prepare a detailed report, which will be reviewed by a consultant cardiologist. Your results will then be shared with you and/or your referring clinician.
Book a private echocardiogram in Reading
If you have private medical insurance, please contact our team to arrange an appointment. We work with many major insurers and can help guide you through the booking process.
If you are a self-paying (non-insured) patient, please book your appointment using the link below.
An echocardiogram (often called an "echo") is a non-invasive ultrasound scan of the heart. It uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart's chambers, valves, and pumping function, helping doctors assess how well the heart is working.
An echocardiogram may be recommended if you have symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, palpitations, dizziness, blackouts, a heart murmur, or abnormal ECG results. It can also be used to monitor existing heart conditions or investigate a family history of certain cardiac diseases.
Most echocardiograms take approximately 30 - 40minutes to complete. The exact duration may vary depending on the images required and your individual circumstances.
No. An echocardiogram is a painless and non-invasive test. A small ultrasound probe is moved across the chest using a gel to obtain images of the heart. There are no injections or needles involved.
No special preparation is usually required. You can eat, drink, and take your usual medications unless you have been advised otherwise by your doctor or healthcare professional.
After your scan, the cardiac physiologist will prepare a report which is reviewed by a consultant cardiologist. The results will then be sent to your referring clinician or discussed with you, depending on your care pathway.