🔬What is it?
An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of your internal organs. It's a safe, painless, and radiation-free way to examine your liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and abdominal blood vessels.
💡Why might you need it?
Ultrasound is the first-line imaging test for abdominal symptoms like pain, bloating, and abnormal liver tests. It can detect gallstones, liver cysts, fatty liver, kidney stones, pancreatic problems, and enlarged organs. It's completely safe with no radiation and provides immediate results.
⚙️How does it work?
- You lie on your back on an examination bed
- A clear, warm gel is applied to your abdomen
- The doctor moves a smooth handheld probe over different areas of your abdomen
- Images appear in real time on a screen — the doctor examines each organ carefully
- The scan typically takes 15–30 minutes
⏱️Duration
15–30 minutes
📋How to prepare?
- ✓Fasting for 6–8 hours before the test (for gallbladder visualization)
- ✓Drink plenty of water if kidney/bladder assessment is needed
- ✓Wear loose, comfortable clothing
📝What to expect?
- •The test is completely painless — just a gentle pressure from the probe on your skin
- •The gel may feel slightly cool but is easily wiped off afterward
- •Results are usually discussed with you immediately or at a follow-up
- •No sedation and no recovery time — you can eat and go about your day right after