Do You Need Another Abdominal Ultrasound for Ongoing Pain?

Q: Do You Need Another Abdominal Ultrasound for Ongoing Pain?

Hello： Whether another ultrasound should be performed is based on two points： (1) Follow-up ultrasound examinations are arranged based on last year's ultrasound results and the pre-existing condition. <br>(2) The physician has determined that new issues have arisen or that furthe

Abdominal examination?

Experiencing intermittent pain in the upper and lower abdomen, with the pain point shifting unpredictably, along with daily discomfort in both sides of the waist and the area around the ribs (both front and back), can be concerning.
Since you had an abdominal ultrasound for the liver and gallbladder last December, it may be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if a follow-up ultrasound or additional imaging studies are necessary based on your current symptoms.

QQ, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/06

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Whether another ultrasound should be performed is based on two points: (1) Follow-up ultrasound examinations are arranged based on last year's ultrasound results and the pre-existing condition.
(2) The physician has determined that new issues have arisen or that further confirmation with an ultrasound is necessary.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2012/09/06

More Info

When it comes to ongoing abdominal pain, especially if the pain is intermittent and varies in location, it is essential to consider whether further imaging, such as an abdominal ultrasound, is necessary. Based on the information provided, you have experienced persistent abdominal discomfort that seems to be affecting various areas, including the upper and lower abdomen, as well as the back. You also mentioned that you had an abdominal ultrasound in December of last year.

The decision to repeat an abdominal ultrasound largely depends on several factors:
1. Previous Ultrasound Findings: If your previous ultrasound revealed any abnormalities or conditions that require monitoring, your healthcare provider may recommend a follow-up ultrasound to assess any changes. For instance, if there were gallstones, liver cysts, or any other significant findings, a repeat ultrasound might be warranted to evaluate the current status of these conditions.

2. New Symptoms or Changes: If you have developed new symptoms since your last ultrasound or if your pain has changed in character or intensity, this could indicate a new or worsening condition. In such cases, your doctor may suggest a repeat ultrasound or other imaging studies to investigate the cause of your symptoms further.

3. Underlying Conditions: If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, such as gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor might recommend additional imaging to rule out complications related to these conditions.

4. Clinical Judgment: Ultimately, the decision to perform another ultrasound should be guided by your healthcare provider's clinical judgment. They will consider your medical history, the results of your previous ultrasound, and your current symptoms to determine the best course of action.

In your case, since you are experiencing ongoing discomfort and have had a previous ultrasound, it would be prudent to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider. They may recommend another ultrasound or possibly other diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, depending on the specifics of your situation.

In summary, while a repeat abdominal ultrasound may be beneficial in certain circumstances, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine the necessity based on your individual symptoms and medical history. They will be able to provide tailored advice and ensure that any underlying issues are appropriately addressed.

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