Also known as diagnostic medical sonography, an ultrasound is an imaging tool that relies on sound waves to create images of the body and can help in diagnosing numerous conditions and diseases. Your doctor may recommend an ultrasound to check your ovaries, uterus, and gallbladder or to find a breast lump. Ultrasounds are also used for checking glands like the thyroid, checking blood flow, and for genital parts. If you are going for an ultrasound boise, here’s what you can expect.

Preparing for an ultrasound test

For specific scans, no additional preparation is required. However, for a gallbladder ultrasound, you may have to avoid drinking or eating for a few hours before the exam. For a pelvic ultrasound, it is essential to have a full bladder. Wear comfortable clothing for the appointment, and you could be asked to remove your jewelry.

During the procedure

A special gel is applied to the body part being examined, and you will lie on a table during the procedure. The sonographer will use a small device called the transducer on the area and move it as required to capture images. The device sends sound waves through the body. In some cases, an ultrasound is done inside the body, such as a transesophageal echocardiogram, where the transducer is inserted into the esophagus. For a transrectal ultrasound, the device is inserted into the rectum. You will not feel any pain during the procedure, although you may feel some discomfort when the device is used on the body, especially when your bladder is full. Completing a standard ultrasound exam can take 30 minutes or an hour.

After an ultrasound

There is no downtime associated with an ultrasound exam. You should be able to return to your regular things immediately after. If you have a full bladder, you can choose to pass urine before stepping out.

Getting the results

The radiologist will analyze the images received from the ultrasound exam and make a report. This report will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your doctor will discuss further treatment options depending on the findings.

Getting an ultrasound is easy and doesn’t involve any risk. If you have any concerns or need further information, talk to your doctor in detail. Other imaging tests can be used when a patient doesn’t agree to an ultrasound. Check online to find the best imaging centers around you in Boise, and make sure to follow the given instructions before the exam.