Ultrasounds Specialist
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Gulf Coast Internists
Internist located in New Port Richey, FL & Palm Harbor, FL
If you experience pain, swelling, or other uncomfortable symptoms in your abdomen or pelvic region, your doctor might order an ultrasound to get a closer look at your internal organs. Expert internist Cristobal Rosario, MD, PA, and the caring team at Gulf Coast Internists in New Port Richey and Palm Harbor, Florida, regularly use ultrasounds and other types of diagnostic imaging technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of common health problems. To request your appointment, call the office nearest you to speak with a friendly team member or book online today.
Ultrasound services are for patients establihed to the pactice. If you have an order from another provider please contact one of the local imaging facilities.
Ultrasounds
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a screening measure that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture images of your internal organs and surrounding soft tissues. Also known as sonography, ultrasound technology allows your Gulf Coast Internists provider to pinpoint problems with your blood vessels, tissues, and organs without making an incision.
Many people associate ultrasound technology with pregnancy, but this type of test has many uses. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or other uncomfortable symptoms, an ultrasound provides a safe and effective means of identifying the underlying cause.
Why would I need an ultrasound?
There are several reasons you might need an ultrasound. At Gulf Coast Internists, the team uses ultrasound technology to gain insights about various parts of the body, including the:
- Bladder
- Liver
- Kidneys
- Gallbladder
- Ovaries
- Pancreas
- Uterus
- Testicles
- Thyroid
- Spleen
- Blood vessels
Your provider might also recommend an ultrasound to guide specific medical procedures like trigger point injections or biopsies.
How do I prepare for an ultrasound?
The way you prepare for your ultrasound depends on the part of your body being viewed. For example, if you’re experiencing stomach problems, your doctor might recommend fasting for 8-12 hours. This is because food that’s being digested can block the soundwaves and prevent an accurate exam.
During your initial consultation, it’s also important that you let your doctor know about any prescription medications, vitamins, or nutritional supplements you’re taking. You should also mention any chronic health problems you’re living with.
Ultrasounds are safe and well-tolerated. They don’t use any radiation, which is why they’re the preferred method for examining babies during pregnancy.
What is the process for receiving an ultrasound?
The team at Gulf Coast Internists performs ultrasounds in-office. On the day of your appointment, you change into a hospital gown and lie down on an exam table. Next, your doctor carefully applies a lubricating jelly to the surface of your skin. The jelly helps transmit sound waves, and allows your doctor to comfortably move around a handheld device called a transducer.
After applying the jelly, your provider places the transducer on the surface of your skin. The transducer sends high-frequency sound waves throughout your body that display images on a computer screen. Depending on the area being examined, your doctor might ask you to change positions several times.
An ultrasound usually lasts 30 minutes. After you’re finished, your provider cleans off your skin and explains your results.
To make an ultrasound appointment at Gulf Coast Internists, call the office nearest you or book online today.
