Who is a Sonologist?
A sonologist is a medical specialist who studies the properties of sound and can diagnose various internal diseases through ultrasound technique. Sonologists are experts in examining and interpreting imaging tests done through a procedure known as sonography or ultrasonography.
Moreover, sonologists are also well-informed about the abnormalities of internal organs and hence are capable of diagnosing various internal diseases and conditions with the help of a sonogram, the image produced as a result of an ultrasound.
What is Sonology?
Sonology is a term used to describe the medical practice and use of sonography in order to detect a range of diseases and illnesses. Moreover, it is also helpful during pregnancy to keep a track of the condition and health of the baby.
Sonography, also known as ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging technique used to examine internal organs, tissues, and body structures.
It uses the help of high-energy sound waves that are emitted from a transducer, a device which when can be moved over a particular area or part of the patient’s body that is being studied.
As the sound waves make echoes and bounce off a patient’s organs and body structures, images are produced which can be viewed on a computer screen. These images produced as a result of the ultrasound examination are known as sonograms.
Sonograms can be immensely beneficial for sonologists in diagnosing a serious disease that ails a patient. They can help sonologists make timely, calculated decisions regarding the treatment of a disease or identify a serious medical condition at an early stage which can potentially be life-saving.
When should you see a Sonologist?
It is important to visit the best sonologist in Swat for an ultrasound during your pregnancy. Your first ultrasound may take place after 6-8 weeks of pregnancy. It is a safe procedure for both mother and baby and can reveal important details such as the gestational age of the baby, check the baby’s growth, and if you’re having a multiple pregnancy (being pregnant with two or more babies at a time).
You should also visit a sonologist for a breast ultrasound if you notice any visible growth or lumps on the breast which can be a sign of breast cancer.
You should also refer to a sonologist for abdominal ultrasound in case you are facing abdominal pain, swollen belly, pain in the lower right abdomen (which could be a sign of appendicitis).
Your doctor may also recommend an abdominal ultrasound if he/she finds your liver or kidney tests to be abnormal. In such a case, you may be required to visit a sonologist to diagnose and find out the root cause of the problem.
What are the main areas of concern of a Sonologist?
Sonologists are mainly concerned with:
- Performing an ultrasound examination
- Interpreting the results of the ultrasound or sonograms
- Diagnosing the underlying causes of a medical concern or problem through an ultrasound
- Consulting with other doctors or specialists to recommend the necessary action following an ultrasound examination.
What conditions can sonologists diagnose?
Sonologists are able to diagnose and evaluate a variety of medical conditions, diseases, and illnesses such as:
- Cancer
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Bone diseases
- Liver diseases
- Appendicitis
- Kidney stones
- Enlarged organs
- Gallstones
- Cysts
- Abnormal growths or tumors
How do sonologists perform an ultrasound?
The procedure for an ultrasound which is followed by sonologists is as follows:
- The sonographer or sonologist will ask you to lie on the exam table facing up
- A water-based gel or lubricant will be applied to your skin. This helps the transducer, a small handheld device to safely make contact with your skin and send inaudible high-frequency sound waves into the area under study. It also reduces friction.
- The medical professional will then gently move the transducer over your skin to get an image of inside the body.
- The images or sonograms will then show up on a monitor or computer screen
- The whole procedure will last for approximately 30 minutes after which the gel will be removed from your skin.
What is the difference between a Sonographer and a Sonologist?
A sonographer is not similar to a sonologist. A sonographer is a healthcare worker who is capable of performing an ultrasound examination. A sonographer can also check normal pathology and anatomy.
A sonologist on the other hand is a medical specialist who not only performs ultrasounds but can act as a consultant for doctors regarding the diagnosis of a disease or to identify a problematic organ inside the body.
How can I book an appointment with a Sonologist near me?
To book an appointment with a sonologist near you, click or tap on the “Doctors Near me” filter at the top of the page. A list of the best sonologists in Swat will show up. Select the 'Book Appointment' button to schedule your appointment.
