An ultrasound is a type of medical test. It uses high-frequency sound waves to capture live images from inside your body. Primarily also known as, sonography. An ultrasound lets you see the problems with organs, vessels, tissues. Well, ultrasound uses no radiation. It’s the most preferred method for viewing a developing fetus.
The two main categories of ultrasound are as follows-
Pregnancy ultrasound- to have a look at the unborn baby. The test can provide information about a baby’s growth, development and overall health.
Diagnostic Ultrasound- to view the information about the internal parts of the body such as heart, blood vessels, liver, bladder etc
How to prepare for an ultrasound-
The preparation mainly depends on the area or organ that is being examined. You are advised to fast for around 12 hours prior to the ultrasound. This is because the technician can get clear images of the body. Undigested food can block the sound waves.
For an examination of the gallbladder, liver, pancreas, it is advised to eat a light meal before the test. You can drink water and take your medication as usual. Be sure to let your doctor know about any prescription drugs, over the counter medicines, or any herbal supplements. Important to follow the doctor’s instructions. Do not be scared to ask questions. This procedure of imaging carries minimal risks.
It does not use radiation like X-rays or CT scans. If you are wondering how an ultrasound is performed, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. You will be most likely lying down on a table with a section of your body exposed for the test. An ultrasound technician will apply a special lubricant jelly to your skin. This jelly allows the use of sound waves.
The transducer sends high frequency sound waves through the body. The wave echo is a dense object, such as the organ or bone. They form a picture that can be reflected by the doctor. Depending on the area, the technician will ask you to change the positions. After the ultrasound procedure, the gel will be cleaned off your skin. The whole procedure typically lasts for less than 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Following the exam, the doctor will review the images. They will check for any abnormalities. They will call you to discuss any findings, or schedule any appointment.
Most people know about ultrasound, and they relate it to pregnancy. These scans can provide an expectant mother to first view her unborn child. An ultrasound can provide a view of the bladder, brain, eyes, gallbladder, kidneys, liver, ovaries, pancreas, spleen, thyroid, testicles, uterus, blood vessels.
Unlike CT scans or X-rays, ultrasounds have no harm. The main reason would be that there is no radiation. Fetal ultrasound imaging keeps real-time images of the fetus. There’s no evidence that ultrasound imaging can cause any harm to fetuses.
The ultrasound scan itself will not cause much pain. It is generally non-invasive. Most people can go about their normal business once the scan is over.
