Echocardiogram Scan
At Sussex Private GP, we offer high-quality echocardiogram (echo) services for both Children and Adults. An echocardiogram is a safe, non-invasive ultrasound scan used to assess the heart’s structure, function, and blood flow. It provides detailed insights into how well the heart is working and helps detect a range of conditions early, often before symptoms arise.
Why You Might Need an Echocardiogram
We carry out echocardiograms for a variety of reasons, including:
- Heart murmurs or unusual heart sounds
- Family history of cardiac conditions
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, or palpitations
- High blood pressure or other risk factors
- Monitoring of existing heart conditions
- Pre-participation screening for athletes
- Specialist follow-up care after infections such as COVID-19 or rheumatic fever
For children, echocardiograms are especially valuable when there are concerns about growth, activity tolerance, or congenital heart conditions.
Our Specialist Paediatric Cardiologists
We are proud to work with two highly experienced paediatric cardiologists:
- Dr Majeed Jawad
- Dr Venugopalan Poothirikovil
Both consultants bring years of NHS and private sector experience in caring for children with heart concerns and work alongside our adult cardiology team to provide truly family-centred care.
What to Expect During the Procedure
An echocardiogram is a painless procedure that typically takes around 45–60 minutes.
For children:
To help prepare, we recommend practising lying still at home, as this can help improve scan quality. Your child will be asked to remove their top and lie on a bed next to the scanner. Our paediatric nurses will be available to assist and provide distraction techniques.
For both adults and children:
A small amount of gel will be applied to the chest, and a handheld probe will be moved across the skin. This sends ultrasound waves into the body, producing live images of the heart on a nearby screen. The gel may feel cool, but it is completely safe and wipes off easily after the procedure.
There is no radiation involved, and there are no risks or side effects.
After the Scan
You or your child will be able to return home straight away. The results will be reviewed by one of our expert cardiologists, who will then discuss the findings with you in detail, including any further steps or tests if necessary.
How to Prepare
We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing to allow easy access to the chest area.
If you have any questions before your appointment, our friendly team will be happy to help put your mind at ease.
Sussex Private GP is conveniently located in Charlwood, West Sussex, providing services to families and individuals across: Crawley, Worthing, Chichester, Waterlooville, Havant, Portsmouth, Brighton, Dorking, Surrey, London, and surrounding areas.
Book an Appointment
Whether you need a routine blood test, an investigation into persistent symptoms, or specialist testing for your child, our team is here to help.
Contact Sussex Private GP today to book your appointment and experience a high-quality, compassionate healthcare service tailored to you.
Worried about your child's food allergies or eczema? Our specialist paediatric team is here to support you every step of the way.
