What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that produces a real-time visual of the structures inside your body. The test is noninvasive, painless, and doesn’t rely on radiation to get the image. Instead, sound waves travel through a handheld probe that moves over the surface of your skin.
These sound waves bounce off internal structures and send a visual picture of internal structures to an external monitor. The imaging test can evaluate your major organs, blood vessels, and the flow of blood through the vessels.
At Rochester Primary Care, on-site ultrasound technology is available for your convenience for a variety of diagnostic and health monitoring needs.
Why do I need an ultrasound?
The physicians at Rochester Primary Care may request an ultrasound as part of a diagnosis or to monitor an existing medical condition.
You may need an ultrasound to:
- Detect infection
- Assess organ damage
- Diagnose unexplained pain
- Identify areas of inflammation
- Check for blockages in blood vessels
You may also undergo an ultrasound as part of a surgical procedure or injection, where ultrasound technology helps guide a needle or instrument into the right place.
Your doctor can view the ultrasound images immediately to ensure you receive fast results and a proper diagnosis.
How should I prepare for an ultrasound?
Before your appointment, the team at Rochester Primary Care provides instructions to prepare you for your ultrasound. If you’re having a test of your bladder, you may need to keep it full before the test.
To keep comfortable, wear loose clothing and leave your valuables, such as jewelry, at home. Depending on the testing area, you may need to remove part or all of your clothing and wear a robe.
Your doctor applies a gel to the testing area before moving the probe around the surface of the skin. The procedure requires no anesthesia and causes no side effects. You can expect to go home after your ultrasound without any limitations.
If anything is found in the ultrasounds that causes concern, your doctor may request additional testing during your visit or at a future appointment.
