What is an ultrasound?
Also known as a sonography scan, an ultrasound is an imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an accurate image of the inside of your body. Unlike alternative imaging methods, such as CT scans and X-rays, ultrasounds don’t use radiation, which has been linked to cancer, hair loss, cell damage, and more.
Why would I need an ultrasound?
The Americare Medical Center team may recommend an ultrasound to:
- Detect pregnancy
- Monitor fetal development
- Diagnose gallbladder problems
- Examine an undiagnosed mass or tumor
- Guide the needle during a biopsy or cancer treatment
- Evaluate joint inflammation
- Check blood flow in the body
- Assess signs of bone disease
Ultrasounds have no known risks and are considered very safe procedures for pregnant women and young children. Before the exam, talk to the Americare Medical Center team about your existing medical conditions or medications you are taking.
How do I prepare for my ultrasound?
While most ultrasound scans require no preparation, the team may ask that you refrain from eating or drinking for several hours if they need to examine certain areas of your body, including the gallbladder. Pelvic ultrasounds, on the other hand, require a full bladder to produce the clearest image possible.
Prior to the exam, you must remove any jewelry or metal accessories and change into a hospital gown before you lie down on the examination table.
What can I expect from my ultrasound?
Once you’re ready for the exam, your Americare Medical Center provider applies a cool gel to your skin. This prevents air pockets from developing and blocking the sound waves needed for your scan.
Next, the sonographer presses a handheld transducer onto the area that your doctor wants to examine and moves it around to produce detailed images. The procedure itself is painless, but you may feel mild discomfort if you have a full bladder, or if the transducer must be inserted into your body. The ultrasound takes about an hour, and when it’s over, you can immediately return to your normal activities.
An ultrasound can tell your physician crucial information about your health and well-being. To learn more, call Americare Medical Center or book an appointment online today.
