When Ultrasounds Are Recommended

Ultrasounds are non-invasive diagnostic tools used in urgent care and primary care settings to assess various medical conditions. With these images, healthcare providers can identify and evaluate potential health concerns. Understanding when ultrasounds are necessary and what to expect during them can empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.

Ultrasounds: What they are and how they work

An ultrasound diagnostic scan uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of internal organs, tissues, and structures. A transducer, or handheld device, emits these sound waves, which bounce off tissues and return as echoes. A computer processes these echoes to create real-time images displayed on a screen. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasounds do not use radiation.

Common types of ultrasounds

An urgent care or primary care provider may order various types of ultrasounds, depending on the patient’s symptoms. Some of the most common ultrasounds include:

• Abdominal ultrasounds. To look at the liver, kidneys, pancreas, or gallbladder.
• Pelvic ultrasounds. To evaluate reproductive organs, pregnancy, or gynecological concerns.
• Vascular ultrasounds. To assess blood flow and identify blockages or clots in veins and arteries.
• Soft tissue ultrasounds. To examine muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues for injuries or abnormalities.
• Thyroid ultrasounds. To detect abnormalities in the thyroid gland, such as nodules or enlargement.

Each type of ultrasound is tailored to specific diagnostic needs. It is common for a provider to order an ultrasound as the first step toward diagnosis. However, it is likely that other tests, such as blood work, may be needed for further insight into the patient’s condition.

When are ultrasounds recommended?

An ultrasound may be recommended to a patient to evaluate symptoms, monitor existing conditions, or guide certain medical procedures. Here are five common reasons for an ultrasound:

Suspected liver, kidney, or gallbladder problems

Ultrasounds can often detect issues in the liver, kidneys, or gallbladder. These include fatty liver disease, kidney stones, or gallstones. Symptoms such as jaundice, changes in urine output, or persistent pain in the upper abdomen may prompt the need for an ultrasound. The goal is to identify any abnormalities and assess the severity of the condition.

Diagnosing thyroid conditions

Thyroid ultrasounds are a non-invasive way to examine the size, shape, and texture of the thyroid gland. They can detect nodules, cysts, or enlargement of the thyroid, which may indicate hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or thyroid cancer. Urgent care and primary care providers often use this imaging tool when blood tests reveal abnormal thyroid hormone levels or when physical examination uncovers abnormalities.

Soft tissue injuries

Soft tissue ultrasounds are valuable in diagnosing muscle tears, tendon injuries, or fluid buildup. Athletes and patients with workplace injuries often receive these scans to assess damage and guide rehabilitation. They can also reveal abscesses or other localized infections, enabling prompt treatment.

Abdominal pain

For abdominal pain, a provider will typically start with a urine test to rule out infection. If there is no infection, an ultrasound is likely the next step, as these scans provide a clear view of abdominal organs. Ultrasounds can reveal conditions such as appendicitis, abdominal masses, or inflammation of the pancreas.

Pelvic pain, gynecological concerns, or pregnancy

Patients experiencing irregular menstrual cycles or pelvic pain may benefit from this type of imaging, as it can clarify the underlying cause. Examples include ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis. These ultrasounds can also confirm pregnancy and gestational age. The provider can then continue to utilize them throughout pregnancy to monitor fetal development and detect complications. 

What to expect during ultrasounds

Preparing for your appointment

Preparation for an ultrasound varies depending on the type of scan being performed. For abdominal ultrasounds, patients may need to fast for several hours to ensure clear images. In contrast, pelvic ultrasounds may require a full bladder, which enhances the visibility of the pelvic organs. Thus, they may need to drink a specific amount of water about an hour before their scan. The healthcare provider will give more personalized instructions ahead of the appointment.

Patients should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing since they may need to change into a hospital gown. Patients may also need to remove jewelry or other accessories that could interfere with imaging. Adhering to these preparation steps ensures the best possible results.

Schedule an ultrasound today

Ultrasounds are a safe and effective diagnostic tool for a wide range of medical conditions. Ask a healthcare provider if you could benefit from these scans. Contact Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center today to get started.

Request an appointment here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894 for an appointment in our New Caney office.

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