What is the Difference Between Echocardiography and ECG?

ECG and echocardiography are two fundamental diagnostic methods that evaluate different aspects of the heart. ECG records the heart's electrical activity, showing rhythm, heart attack signs, enlargement, and electrolyte disturbances.

Echocardiography uses ultrasound to visualize the heart — chamber sizes, wall thickness, valve function, and pumping strength (ejection fraction).

A simple analogy: ECG checks the heart's electrical wiring, while echocardiography inspects the rooms and doors. Both tests provide different information and often complement each other.