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Ultrasound Overview
What Is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the inside of your body. It helps doctors diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions.
Common Uses of Ultrasound
Ultrasound can be used to examine many areas of the body, including:
- Pregnancy – Monitoring the baby’s growth and development
- Abdomen – Checking organs like the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and pancreas
- Pelvis – Evaluating the uterus, ovaries, bladder, and prostate
- Heart (Echocardiogram) – Assessing heart structure and function
- Blood Vessels (Doppler Ultrasound) – Detecting clots or blockages
- Thyroid and Soft Tissues – Examining lumps or abnormalities
Key Benefits
- Safe – No radiation exposure
- Painless – No discomfort during the procedure
- Quick – Typically takes 20 to 45 minutes
- Real-Time Imaging – Immediate visual feedback
- Accessible – Widely available and cost-effective
What to Expect During the Exam
- Preparation
Instructions vary depending on the type of ultrasound:- Abdominal – You may need to fast beforehand
- Pelvic – A full bladder might be required
- Pregnancy – Guidelines depend on the stage of pregnancy
- During the Procedure
- A clear gel is applied to your skin
- A handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over the area
- You may feel slight pressure, but it shouldn’t hurt
- After the Procedure
- No recovery time needed—you can resume normal activities
- A radiologist will analyze the images and send the results to your doctor
Are There Any Risks?
Ultrasound is extremely safe. It does not use ionizing radiation (unlike X-rays or CT scans), and there are no known side effects.