Clinics: The Holly · Spire London East · Spire Hartswood · Nuffield Brentwood
Dr Neeraj Jain
Consultant Paediatrician

Tests & Investigations

Every test explained before it happens — what it involves, how long it takes and what the results mean for your child.

Child-Friendly Cardiac Diagnostics

What Each Test Involves

All investigations are performed with children — and anxious parents — in mind. Nothing is rushed, and every result is explained in plain language.

Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound)

A detailed, high-resolution ultrasound of the heart's chambers, valves and blood flow. Completely painless, radiation-free and typically takes 20–30 minutes. Your child simply lies still while images are taken — parents stay in the room throughout.

ECG (Electrocardiogram)

Small stickers on the chest record the heart's electrical activity in under five minutes. Essential for detecting rhythm problems and inherited electrical conditions.

Holter / Ambulatory ECG Monitoring

A small wearable recorder captures every heartbeat over 24 hours or longer of normal life at home and school — ideal for intermittent palpitations, dizzy spells and unexplained faints.

Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM)

A discreet cuff measures blood pressure at intervals across 24 hours of normal activity — far more reliable than one-off clinic readings for diagnosing high blood pressure in children.

Cranial Ultrasound Scans

Safe, radiation-free ultrasound imaging of a baby's brain through the soft spot (fontanelle), performed where clinically indicated.

Ultrasound, X-rays & MRI Scans

Wider imaging — abdominal or other ultrasound scans, X-rays and MRI — arranged through the hospital when the assessment needs it.

Blood Tests

Targeted blood investigations performed at the hospital, with results explained clearly and a copy sent to your GP where appropriate.

Preparing your child: most tests need no special preparation. Comfortable clothing helps, and bringing a favourite toy or video for younger children makes the visit easier. You will receive specific instructions with your appointment confirmation if anything extra is needed.
Common Questions

Test Questions, Answered

Is an echocardiogram safe for babies?

Yes — echocardiography uses ultrasound, exactly like pregnancy scans. It is painless, involves no radiation and can be repeated as often as needed, even in newborns.

Will my child need to be sedated?

Almost never. Most children manage all of these tests awake. For very young children we simply allow extra time, and feeding babies during a scan often works beautifully.

How quickly will we get results?

Dr Jain reports echocardiograms and ECGs at the appointment itself wherever possible, so most families leave with an answer the same day. Monitor recordings and other imaging are reported once analysed, with results explained by phone or at follow-up.

Ready for Expert Answers?

Book an appointment with Dr Jain — clear diagnosis, honest reassurance and a plan you can trust.

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