Doppler ultrasound might sound complicated, but it’s actually a simple and worry-free procedure. Let’s see how you can prepare and what to expect during the examination
Before the Examination Get Ready
- Clothing Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being examined. For example, if your leg veins are being checked, wear shorts or a skirt
- Avoid Smoking and Caffeine At least 2 hours before the examination, as they can affect blood flow
- Inform About Medical History Tell your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions
- Pregnancy Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or suspect you might be
During the Examination Simple and Straightforward
- Lie Down or Sit on the Table You’ll be positioned comfortably depending on the area being examined
- Gel Application The technician will apply a clear, cool gel to your skin to help sound waves travel better
- Probe Movement The doctor will gently press and move the ultrasound probe over your skin. You might hear a “whooshing” sound, which is the sound of blood flow
- Viewing the Images You’ll see images of blood flow on the screen, and the doctor will explain them to you
- Gel Removal Once the examination is complete, the technician will wipe off the gel
After the Examination Back to Normal Activities
- No Recovery Time You can resume your normal activities immediately
- Results The doctor will explain the results and provide further health advice
No Fear, No Worries
Doppler ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure. If you have any concerns, feel free to ask your doctor or the technician