X-Ray & Ultrasound Q & A

What is an X-ray?
An X-ray is a common diagnostic test, and one of the best ways for a doctor to see inside of your body without surgery. Not only is it used to check for broken bones, but it can also be used to diagnose, monitor, and treat other medical conditions. If you’re feeling pain or discomfort in a certain area or are checking to see if certain conditions are present inside your body, a doctor may suggest that you have an X-ray done to better understand your current condition.

If you’re undergoing treatment for an illness, an X-ray may be used to check how the treatment is progressing. These days, X-rays are used for everything from cancer screenings to bone fractures, arthritis, and osteoporosis tests.

What should I expect from an X-ray test?
At Sahara West Urgent Care & Wellness, the team is equipped with the latest in X-ray technology. If you require an X-ray, your provider will let you know if any preparation is needed. Usually, however, all you have to do is show up for the appointment and they will help guide you through the rest: You may be asked to change into a hospital gown, and in some cases you may need to ingest contrast dye prior to the X-ray.

To protect your baby, tell your doctor if you are pregnant before having an X-ray. After the X-ray, a professional will review the images and use the information to recommend the best course for you moving forward.

What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a scan that is used to see inside your body using high-frequency sound waves. It’s often used to see your organs, vessels, and tissues. It’s a safe way to check on the health of your baby during pregnancy, but it can also be used to examine the bladder, eyes, gallbladder, kidneys, liver, ovaries, pancreas, spleen, thyroid, testicals, uterus, or blood vessels.

What should I expect from an ultrasound test?
During an ultrasound, the technician applies gel to your skin, then presses a small handheld wand against that area of your skin, moving it around to get the best image possible. The test usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. While the ultrasound may be mildly uncomfortable because of the pressure of the wand pressing against your skin, many people consider it to be painless. Depending on the reason for your ultrasound, you may need to fast or drink plenty of liquids beforehand.

X-Ray And Ultrasound Specialist
Sahara West Urgent Care & Wellness offers the latest in diagnostic imaging, and that includes both X-rays and ultrasounds. Whether you’re looking for a place to have an ultrasound during your pregnancy, or your doctor has recommended an X-ray or ultrasound to check on your health, patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, can schedule these important tests by calling the professionals at Sahara West Urgent Care & Wellness.