When you think of an ultrasound exam, you probably associate it with pregnancy and check-ups to monitor the health of a growing fetus. While that is an important function, there are many other conditions for which these exams are routinely used. They are crucial in helping doctors and surgeons diagnose and treat potentially life-threatening diseases or conditions.
Your doctor may recommend an ultrasound exam if he or she suspects a problem with an internal organ or its surrounding tissue. Ultrasound exams are particularly crucial in screening for aortic aneurysms. Smoking significantly increases a person’s risk of an aortic aneurysm; men between the ages of 65 and 75 who smoke regularly should be screened using abdominal ultrasound.
Conditions that an ultrasound exam can detect
Ultrasound may be used to detect many conditions or problems, including:
- Kidney conditions
- Kidney stones
- Cysts
- Tumors
- Liver, spleen, gallbladder and pancreatic conditions
- Enlargement
- Cancer or tumors
- Cysts
- Gall stones
- Cholecystitis
- Pancreatitis
- Thyroid conditions
- Overactive glands
- Nodules
- Cysts
- Enlargement
- Intestinal conditions
- Blood vessel blockages
- Inflammation
- Urinary conditions
- Heart conditions
- Valve disorders
- Cardiac enlargement
- Vein conditions
- Atherosclerosis
- Blood clots
- Varicose veins
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Musculoskeletal conditions
- Arthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Reproductive and pelvic conditions
- Ovarian cancer
- Fibroid tumors
- Cysts
- Fallopian tube blockages
- Other conditions
- Hernia
- Jaundice
- Appendicitis
- Aneurysm
- Breast cancer
When you need an ultrasound examination, Alaska Family Sonograms offers precise image results so you can get the answers you need to help you feel better. For more information about ultrasound scans and how they may help you, or to schedule an appointment, call 907-561-3601.