Heart disease is often thought of as a men’s health issue, but the reality is that it affects women just as much. The problem? Many women experience subtle or silent symptoms that don’t immediately raise alarms. Some heart conditions go unnoticed for years, only becoming obvious when complications arise. This is where a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) can make all the difference.
A TTE is a non-invasive heart scan that uses ultrasound to take a close look at the heart’s structure and function. It can detect problems like valve disease, heart failure, and congenital issues before symptoms become serious. Let’s break down why this test matters for women’s heart health.
Why Heart Conditions in Women Often Go Unnoticed
Women’s heart symptoms can be different from men’s. While men are more likely to report crushing chest pain, women often experience symptoms like:
- Fatigue that doesn’t go away
- Shortness of breath
- Mild chest discomfort or pressure
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Swelling in the legs or feet
Because these symptoms can be vague, they are sometimes mistaken for stress, anxiety, or simply getting older. That’s why early detection matters, and a TTE is one tool that can help.
What is a TTE and How Does it Work?
A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is a simple, painless scan that provides a moving image of your heart using sound waves. It’s a bit like an ultrasound used during pregnancy, but instead of looking at a baby, it looks at your heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow.
What to Expect During the Test
- A small device (transducer) is placed on your chest with some gel to help capture clear images.
- The device sends sound waves through the chest, which bounce off the heart and create a detailed picture.
- The test takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and there are no needles or radiation involved.
The results can reveal hidden heart issues that might not cause obvious symptoms but could lead to complications if left untreated.
What Heart Conditions Can a TTE Detect in Women?
1. Heart Valve Disease
Heart valves control blood flow, opening and closing to keep everything moving in the right direction. If a valve becomes stiff or leaky, it can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling, symptoms that are often brushed off. A TTE can spot narrowed or damaged valves before they start causing serious problems.
2. Heart Failure (Even Without Obvious Symptoms)
Heart failure doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working, it means it’s struggling to pump blood effectively. In women, this can sometimes happen without noticeable swelling or severe shortness of breath, making it harder to diagnose. A TTE measures how well the heart is pumping, catching early signs of weakness before they progress.
3. Congenital Heart Defects (That Show Up Later in Life)
Some women are born with small heart defects that don’t cause issues until adulthood. A TTE can spot holes in the heart, abnormal blood flow, or structural problems that might not have been detected earlier.
4. High Blood Pressure Effects on the Heart
Long-term high blood pressure can thicken the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to do its job. A TTE shows changes in heart structure that could signal early-stage heart disease.
Who Should Consider a TTE?
A TTE isn’t just for people who already have heart disease. It may be recommended if you:
- Have ongoing fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath
- Experience chest discomfort that isn’t explained by other causes
- Have a family history of heart disease
- Have high blood pressure or diabetes (both increase heart disease risk)
- Had pregnancy-related heart problems, like pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes
Even if you feel fine, a TTE can catch silent heart issues early, before they turn into bigger problems.
Taking Care of Your Heart Starts Now
Women’s heart health deserves attention, especially because symptoms can be subtle or misunderstood. If you’ve been feeling unexplained fatigue, dizziness, or discomfort, don’t ignore it. A TTE is a simple, non-invasive way to check on your heart and get peace of mind.
At The Heart Doctors Clinic, we offer TTE assessments to help detect hidden heart conditions early. If you’re concerned about your heart health, we’re here to guide you through your next steps.
Take the next step for your heart:
- Book a consultation to discuss whether a TTE is right for you.
- Learn more about heart health and how to spot early warning signs.
- Prioritise your well-being, your heart works hard for you, so give it the care it deserves.
Heart conditions don’t always come with loud warning signs, but early detection can make a difference. Looking after your heart today could help you stay strong and healthy for years to come.
