Ultrasound Imaging in Mobile, AL
What Is Ultrasound Imaging?
Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography, is a method of obtaining diagnostic images from inside the human body through the use of high-frequency sound waves. Ultrasonography is used as a diagnostic tool that can assist doctors with making recommendations for further treatment.
The board-certified radiologists at Alabama Coastal Radiology, P.C. provide a wide variety of different diagnostic imaging services, including diagnostic ultrasounds. Learn more about the uses of this procedure and what you should expect during your exam when you call your preferred location today to schedule an appointment at any of our eight radiology clinics in the Mobile, Alabama area. We have offices in Mobile, Saraland, Fairhope, Daphne, and Bay Minette, AL.
Why Might I Need an Ultrasound?
If you’re expecting a child, an ultrasound can be necessary.The test makes no use of radiation. It provides a secure technique to assess the wellbeing of your unborn child, also Medline Plus mentioned that If you experience symptoms in particular organs or tissues, you could require diagnostic ultrasonography. These include reproductive system, thyroid, gallbladder, kidneys, and heart. This helps your doctor see a clear image of the region being checked thanks to the ultrasound. Here are other reasons why you need a ultrasound:
- Viewing an unborn fetus.
- Examining many of the body’s internal organs, including the heart, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder.
- Show movement of internal tissues and organs, enable physicians to see blood flow and heart valve functions.
- Used to guide procedures such as needle biopsies.
- Image the breast and to guide biopsy of breast cancer.
- Evaluate superficial structures, such as the thyroid gland and scrotum (testicles).
How Should I Prepare for an Ultrasound?
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Depending on the type of ultrasound exam you have, you will be asked:
- Not to eat or drink for up to 12 hours before your appointment, or
- Drink up to six glasses of water two hours before your exam and avoid urinating. This will ensure a full bladder when the exam begins.
What Should I Expect During My Test?
The examination usually takes less than 30 minutes. After being positioned on the exam table, a clear gel is applied in the area being examined. This helps the transducer make contact with the skin. The technologist firmly presses the transducer against the skin and moves it back and forth to image the area of interest.
Generally, the technologist can review the ultrasound images in real-time or, when the examination is complete and the gel is wiped off, you may be asked to dress and wait while the ultrasound images are reviewed, either on film or monitor.
Are Ultrasounds Painful?
Most ultrasounds are entirely painless. The gel applied to your skin may be a bit cold and there may be varying degrees of discomfort and pressure as the technologist guides the transducer over your abdomen, especially if you are required to have a full bladder.
Diagnostic Ultrasound with Alabama Coastal Radiology, P.C.
For more ultrasound-related information, contact Alabama Coastal Radiology, P.C. today by calling your preferred location directly. Our diagnostic radiologists are all board-certified by the American Board of Radiology and many have extensive experience performing safe and accurate diagnostic ultrasounds. We have offices in Mobile, Fairhope, Daphne, Bay Minette, and Saraland.
For more information on this topic, please visit www.Radiologyinfo.org.