If you have a family history of heart disease, you might have wondered whether you should be doing more to keep an eye on your heart health. Regular check-ups, monitoring blood pressure, and staying active are all important, but what about heart imaging? A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is a simple and non-invasive way to get a closer look at how your heart is working. But is it necessary for you? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Transthoracic Echocardiogram?
A transthoracic echocardiogram, often called an echo, is an ultrasound of the heart. It uses sound waves to create detailed images, showing how well your heart is pumping and whether there are any structural issues.
This test can detect conditions such as:
- Heart valve problems – Are the valves opening and closing properly?
- Weakened heart muscle – Is your heart pumping blood effectively?
- Thickened heart walls – Could there be early signs of heart disease?
- Congenital heart conditions – Are there any inherited abnormalities?
Because the scan is painless and doesn’t involve radiation, it’s a safe way to get valuable insights into heart health.
Does a Family History of Heart Disease Mean You Should Get a TTE?
Having a family history of heart disease does increase your risk, but that doesn’t always mean a TTE is necessary. Here’s when it might be worth considering:
1. You Have Symptoms That Could Point to Heart Issues
If you’ve noticed symptoms like shortness of breath, chest discomfort, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, or unexplained fatigue, a TTE can help determine whether your heart is functioning properly.
2. Your Family Has a History of Specific Heart Conditions
Some heart conditions can run in families, including:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy – A thickening of the heart muscle that can affect how it pumps.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy – A condition where the heart becomes enlarged and weaker.
- Valvular heart disease – Issues with the heart valves, which can sometimes be inherited.
- Aortic conditions – Weakness in the aorta, the main artery carrying blood from the heart.
If close relatives have been diagnosed with these, a TTE might be recommended as a precaution.
3. You Have High Blood Pressure or Other Risk Factors
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes can put extra strain on the heart. A TTE can check whether these conditions have started to impact heart function.
4. You’re an Athlete or Regularly Engage in Intense Exercise
If you have a family history of heart problems and take part in high-intensity sports, a TTE can help rule out any underlying issues that could put extra strain on your heart.
When a TTE May Not Be Necessary
Not everyone with a family history of heart disease needs routine imaging. If you:
- Have no symptoms.
- Have normal blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Lead a heart-healthy lifestyle.
- Have been advised by your doctor that there’s no immediate concern.
In these cases, regular check-ups and lifestyle adjustments may be enough to keep your heart in good shape.
What to Do if You’re Unsure
If you’re unsure whether a TTE is necessary for you, the best step is to have a conversation with a doctor. They can assess your medical history, lifestyle, and risk factors before recommending whether imaging is needed.
Looking After Your Heart Health
Even if a TTE isn’t required, there are things you can do to support your heart:
✔ Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly.
✔ Stay active with regular exercise.
✔ Eat a heart-friendly diet rich in whole foods and low in processed sugars and unhealthy fats.
✔ Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
✔ Get regular health check-ups to stay on top of your heart health.
Thinking About a Heart Check-Up?
If you have a family history of heart disease and are wondering whether a transthoracic echocardiogram might be right for you, it’s worth discussing your options with a specialist. Dr Paul Ong at The Heart Specialist can help assess your heart health and guide you through the next steps if needed.
Taking a proactive approach can give you peace of mind and ensure you’re doing what’s best for your long-term heart health. Get in touch with The Heart Specialist today to schedule a consultation.
