An echocardiogram is used to pick up echoes of sound waves in the heart. These echoes can in turn be transformed into images, which your doctor can view on a screen. The purpose of the echo test is to allow your doctor to find the cause of any abnormal sounds in the heart, or to find an explanation for symptoms like chest pain, irregularity of heartbeat, ankle swelling or shortness of breath. It can also help in the diagnosis of heart disease, blood clots or tumours. With the use of this kind of test, your doctor is also able to check your heart’s measurements and function.