Contents
What Is An Abdominal Ultrasound?
An abdominal ultrasound is a type of imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the structures and organs inside your abdomen. It can help diagnose medical conditions such as abdominal pain, blockages, kidney stones, pancreatitis, and appendicitis, as well as read the size of organs like the liver, spleen, and kidneys.
What to Expect During an Abdominal Ultrasound
A healthcare professional will use a wand-like device called a transducer to deliver sound waves that the body reflects. This data is collected and assembled by a computer which creates an image. Most abdominal ultrasounds take around 30 minutes.
Before the ultrasound, you will be asked to drink plenty of water and not to eat or drink anything for at least four hours prior to the test. You may need to wear a hospital gown, and remove any jewelry, as metal items can interfere with the imaging process.
During the ultrasound, you will with lie on your back and stay still while the technician moves the transducer over your abdomen. You may be asked to change positions or to hold your breath for short periods during the scans.
What Can An Abdominal Ultrasound Diagnose?
An abdominal ultrasound can diagnose a variety of medical issues and get a better look at organs inside the body. Common diseases and conditions that can be diagnosed with an abdominal ultrasound include:
Gallstones
Gallstones can form in the gallbladder and can be painful. An abdominal ultrasound can provide images to identify the location and size of gallstones.
Ovarian Cysts
Women who are experiencing abdominal pain may have ovarian cysts. An abdominal ultrasound can detect and provide images of any cysts present.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are very commonly diagnosed with an abdominal ultrasound as they can cause a great deal of pain. An ultrasound can provide detailed images of the size and location of the kidney stones.
Blockages
Abdominal ultrasounds can help diagnose blockages in the intestines, bladder, or other organs.
Health Benefits of Abdominal Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are a highly non-invasive procedure that has a low risk for complications. Most people can expect to feel little to no pain, as there is no radiation or needles involved.
Ultrasounds are a reliable, cost-effective way to diagnose medical conditions. They offer detailed pictures of the abdominal organs and can detect potential problems quickly and accurately. Talk to your doctor about abdominal ultrasounds to gain a better understanding of any health issues that may arise.