Ultrasound or sonography is a test that uses sound waves to make detailed pictures of your organs. A transducer or probe emits the sound waves as it is passed over your skin.
UltrasoundUltrasound or sonography is a test that uses sound waves to make detailed pictures of your organs. A transducer or probe emits the sound waves as it is passed over your skin.This test can help your healthcare provider assess pain or other symptoms in different parts of your body. It may also be used to screen for health problems that do not cause symptoms.There are many different kinds of ultrasound imaging. The type you have depends on the reason for the test.For example, abdominal ultrasound can help detect problems like gallstones, kidney stones, or liver disease.Pelvic ultrasound can be used to look at the bladder, uterus, ovaries, or prostate. It is used in pregnant women to check the fetus.Doppler ultrasound can detect narrow or blocked arteries or blood clots in your blood vessels. Some ultrasound tests are able to create 3-D images of internal organs.Ultrasound does not involve any radiation, so it is generally a very safe procedure. Still, you should discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.Before the ultrasoundBe sure to follow your healthcare provider's instructions before the test. If you do not follow the instructions, your test may be postponed or canceled.Allow extra time to check in before your ultrasound.If you are having an abdominal ultrasound, you may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before your test. This includes water, coffee, and any other liquids.For a pelvic ultrasound, you may be asked to have a full bladder before the test. If you are having a pelvic ultrasound of your rectum, you will likely need an enema beforehand.Before the test begins, you may be asked to undress from the waist down or you may be asked to put on a gown.Your sonogram technician or sonographer may ask questions about your health. Your answers will help tailor the test to your needs. The questions may address your overall health, the reasons you are having the ultrasound, any abdominal or pelvic surgery you have had, any prior ultrasounds you may have had, and any medicines you are currently taking.If you are having a Doppler ultrasound, you should also tell your sonographer if you have had a stroke or stroke symptoms such as short-term loss of strength, speech, or vision.What do expectThe ultrasound may take from 30 minutes to one hour. It is usually performed while lying down.During a pelvic procedure, you may need to lie on your back with your knees raised.In all cases, the part of your body that is being examined will be exposed to sound waves that come from a hand-held transducer or probe. Your sonographer will use a non-greasy gel to help the sound waves provide clearer pictures. It may feel wet, but it will not harm your skin or clothes.The gel will be applied to the area where the probe will contact your body, such as your abdomen, neck, or thigh.If you need a pelvic ultrasound, the probe may be moved across the outside of your pelvis. Or it may be placed inside your vagina or rectum. If you prefer, you may be able to insert the probe yourself.During an ultrasound you may feel some pressure, but it should not be painful. Let your sonographer if you feel any pain during the test.You may be able to see images of your own organs on the sonographer's screen during the procedure.If you are having a Doppler ultrasound, you may see images of your blood flow on a screen and you may heart the whooshing sound of your blood flowing.If you are pregnant, you may see on screen images of your fetus and hear your fetus' heartbeat.After your ultrasoundBefore leaving you may need to wait for a short time while the images are being reviewed.You can usually have something to eat and drink right after your test. You can also get back to the rest of your normal routine.Although your sonographer can answer your questions about the test, only your healthcare provider can explain the results. Ask when the ultrasound results will be ready.Talk with your healthcare provider about the results of the test and any further testing or treatment that you may need.What we have learnedUltrasound uses soundwaves to make images of your organs and blood vessels, true or false?The answer is true.The gel that is used for an ultrasound helps create a clear image. True or false?The answer is true.Ultrasound exams should not be painful. True or false?The answer is true.
Date Last Reviewed: 03/31/2020
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