Does Recording Conversations Affect Abdominal Ultrasound Results?

Could you please clarify your question?

Hello, doctor.
I have severe anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder, so I try to record everything I consider important in my life.
I have a fear of death, which makes me feel very tense when I see a doctor.
Before my appointments, I secretly turn on the recording function on my smartphone and keep it in my pocket to record my conversations with the doctor.
This is to ensure that I don't miss anything and that I remember all the questions I need to ask, as well as the doctor's responses.

I have a question for you.
Previously, when I visited a gastroenterologist, the doctor performed an abdominal ultrasound, and the results were normal, which made me very happy.
However, I soon became anxious again, worrying that recording the conversation with my phone in my pocket might interfere with the abdominal ultrasound and lead to inaccurate results.
I know this question may seem silly, but I would appreciate it if you could simply tell me whether it would or would not affect the ultrasound results.
Otherwise, I feel trapped by my mental health issues.
Thank you very much, doctor.

A-Q, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/27

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello, sir.
The recording device will not affect the ultrasound examination, so there is no need to worry.
However, private recording may have legal implications, and you should obtain the physician's consent before recording.
Please take note of this.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Chen Shih-Tien.

Reply Date: 2016/11/27

More Info

Recording conversations with your smartphone while undergoing an abdominal ultrasound will not affect the accuracy or results of the ultrasound examination. The ultrasound procedure relies on sound waves to create images of the organs and structures within your abdomen, and the presence of a recording device does not interfere with this process.
It's understandable that you may have concerns about the impact of your recording on medical examinations, especially given your anxiety and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. However, it's important to reassure you that the technology used in ultrasound imaging is not influenced by external electronic devices like smartphones. The ultrasound machine emits sound waves and captures the echoes that bounce back from the tissues, which is how it generates images. Your recording device does not emit any signals that would interfere with this process.

That said, while the recording itself does not affect the ultrasound, there are ethical and legal considerations to keep in mind. In many jurisdictions, recording conversations without the consent of all parties involved may be illegal. It is generally advisable to inform your healthcare provider if you wish to record your conversations, as they may have policies regarding this practice. Open communication with your doctor can help alleviate some of your anxiety, as they can provide clarity on your concerns and the medical process.

In addition to addressing your immediate question, it may be beneficial to explore ways to manage your anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Many individuals find that talking to a mental health professional can provide valuable support and coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), for example, is a common approach that helps individuals challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Mindfulness techniques can also be effective in reducing anxiety by helping you stay present and focused on the moment rather than worrying about potential future outcomes.

It's also worth noting that your health and well-being are paramount. If you have ongoing concerns about your health or the results of any medical tests, it's essential to maintain an open dialogue with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand your test results, address any questions you may have, and guide you through any necessary follow-up care.

In summary, recording your conversations during an abdominal ultrasound will not affect the results of the examination. However, it's important to consider the legal implications of recording without consent and to seek support for managing your anxiety. Your health care team is there to help you, and open communication can lead to better understanding and reassurance regarding your health concerns.

Similar Q&A

Does Drinking Water Before an Abdominal Ultrasound Affect Results?

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing dull pain in my upper right abdomen, so I visited a gastroenterology clinic. The doctor wanted to perform an abdominal ultrasound and asked if I was fasting and had not consumed any water. I confirmed that I had not eaten anything for at le...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, sir. Drinking water occasionally may affect the penetration of ultrasound; however, if the physician has not specifically mentioned the need for a re-examination, it should be clear enough. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian

Understanding Strong Echoes in Fetal Ultrasound: Causes and Implications

Hello Dr. Huang, I would like to ask about your previous response regarding the ultrasound examination where the fetal abdominal cavity showed stronger echogenicity, resulting in a brighter appearance on the screen. Under what circumstances does this occur? Does this situation in...

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: I am referring to the characteristics of meconium observed in ultrasound. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Jian-Hsun, Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Can Pregnant Women Safely Undergo Abdominal Ultrasound for Hepatitis B?

Hello Dr. Lin: I would like to ask about abdominal ultrasound examinations. If a patient is already pregnant, can they still undergo regular abdominal ultrasounds for hepatitis B? Will this have any impact? Should the examinations be postponed?

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, it is safe to perform an abdominal ultrasound for hepatitis B during pregnancy. This procedure is similar to the ultrasounds conducted for routine prenatal check-ups and does not need to be postponed. Wishing you good health. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Ming-Hui, Taoyuan Hospital, ...

Does Roemheld Syndrome Affect Echocardiogram Results?

In addition to being underweight affecting the results, could Roemheld syndrome (RS) also influence ultrasound results? I have a severe bloating issue and have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, which causes pain in my chest. I have undergone echocardiograms at two dif...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, theoretically, a severe reflux should not have a significant impact, while a normal one seems quite unusual. It is advisable to seek further examination at a medical center. Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.