When you need an ultrasound test, how convenient would it be to have it done at your doctor’s office? At Family Medical Specialists of Florida, PLC, you can. It doesn’t matter if you need an ultrasound of your thyroid, a cardiac ultrasound, or an echo, it can happen at the Plant City, Florida, office. While this streamlines your day, it also allows your physician to get test results quickly and improves your coordination of care. To learn more about the ultrasound services available at Family Medical Specialists or to schedule your appointment, call or go online today.
Ultrasound Q & A
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound, sometimes called a sonogram, is an imaging test that looks at your organs and internal tissues by using high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves travel through your skin and bounce off your organs, creating an image.
Ultrasounds allow your doctor to view things like your:
- Heart
- Kidneys
- Blood vessels
- Liver
- Bladder
While your doctor can view many of these organs through an X-ray, ultrasounds tend to be safer as they don’t expose you to radiation. This lack of radiation is why it’s the first choice during pregnancy.
What are the types of ultrasound services?
At Family Medical Specialists of Florida, the professional team offers a full range of ultrasound services. Depending on your needs, they may request an ultrasound of your:
- Liver
- Gallbladder
- Abdominal aorta
- Thyroid
- Parathyroid
- Heart
- Abdomen
An echocardiogram is a special type of ultrasound that creates an image of your heart, including its valves, chambers, walls, and blood vessels. Through an echo, your doctor can see how your heart moves, how it’s pumping, and if blood regurgitates through your valves.
Your doctor may order these tests to determine the root cause of inflammation, pain, or other symptoms that involve the organs. Depending on your needs, your doctor may pair your ultrasound with other tests like a cardiac stress test or Holter monitor.
How do I prepare for an ultrasound?
The type and area of your ultrasound determine how you need to prepare. In some cases, your doctor may request that you fast for 12 hours before the test, especially if the ultrasound is going to be around the abdomen, as an empty stomach is easier to see through. For ultrasounds of the gallbladder, liver, spleen, or pancreas, your doctor may advise you to eat a fat-free dinner before your fast.
If the ultrasound takes place near your bladder, they may request that you drink a significant amount of water before the procedure to ensure you have a full bladder.
When you need an ultrasound, have it right at your doctor’s office at Family Medical Specialists of Florida. You can call the office to schedule or go online to use the booking tool.