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Abdominal Ultrasound
An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves — not radiation — to make live images of organs like the liver, gallbladder, kidneys and pancreas. It is safe, painless and widely used.
Causes & risk factors
- To investigate tummy pain
- To look at the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts (e.g. gallstones)
- To check the kidneys and bladder
- To assess the pancreas and spleen
- To look for fluid or masses in the abdomen
- To guide procedures such as biopsies
Common symptoms
- Tummy pain
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
- Bloating
- Blood in urine (for kidney checks)
Tests & diagnosis
- CT scan for more detailed views
- MRI in selected cases
- Liver function tests alongside
Treatment & management
- You may be asked not to eat for a few hours beforehand
- A gel is put on the skin and a probe is moved over the tummy
- It is painless and uses no radiation
- It shows organs, gallstones, cysts and fluid
- You can usually eat and go straight afterwards
When to see a doctor urgently
- When you have unexplained tummy pain or bloating
- To check for gallstones or liver, kidney or pancreas problems
- When blood tests suggest a liver or kidney issue
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about abdominal ultrasound. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before an abdominal ultrasound?
Often yes — you may be asked not to eat for several hours, especially to see the gallbladder clearly. Your appointment letter will tell you what to do.
Does an ultrasound use radiation?
No. Ultrasound uses harmless sound waves rather than radiation, which is why it is safe and can be used in pregnancy.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.