When your doctor suspects that you have an issue with your prostate, they are likely to order a prostate ultrasound to determine the underlying cause of the problem. An ultrasound is typically only associated with pregnant women in regard to checking on the fetus’s health and development. However, you may be surprised to learn that ultrasounds are used on nearly all areas of the body to help locate tumors, unusual growths, and more. The moment you begin noticing an issue, it is in your best interest to contact a doctor at your earliest convenience.
What it Does
A prostate ultrasound in Riverhead, NY, uses sound waves to produce pictures of a man’s prostate gland as a means of diagnosing symptoms. Such symptoms may include difficulty urinating or an elevated blood test result. It is also used to investigate a nodule found during a prostate exam, detect the existence of abnormalities, and determine whether a gland is enlarged.
As a man, issues with your prostate may be difficult to admit to your doctor, but prostate cancer is a serious risk for both young and elderly men. To make the matter easier, the procedure is safe, noninvasive, and does not use ionizing radiation. Contact a facility such as North Fork Radiology to learn more about the procedure.
How to Prepare
A prostate ultrasound requires little to no special preparation. It is a good idea to leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as a pair of sweatpants. You may be asked to wear a gown and lie on your side with your knees toward your chest. This is simply to increase the accuracy of the image and ease the doctor’s ability to make a diagnosis. Although a small plastic cylinder will be placed a short distance into the rectum, there is minimal discomfort involved, and the procedure is quick. Afterward, simply sit up and wait for a diagnosis.