Ultrasound of adrenal glands

Ultrasound of the adrenal glands is a non-invasive diagnostic method that allows you to determine the shape, condition, and size of these organs. It is carried out with the help of ultrasound. This method has no age restrictions, it is completely painless and harmless to health.

Adrenal glands are paired glands of the endocrine system, which play a significant role in human metabolism, as well as in the adaptation of the body to stressful conditions. They are the main source of adrenaline and noradrenaline. These hormones allow the body's reserves to be drawn upon under stressful conditions. The organs are also responsible for the synthesis of corticosteroids. They are located in close proximity to the kidneys

Indications for Adrenal Gland Ultrasound

This procedure is prescribed in the following cases

• pain in the lower back of aching or pulling character;
• painful urination. Pain may occur before, during or after urination;
• change in the color of urine, appearance of blood in it;
• change in skin pigmentation, sudden appearance of stretch marks;
• nonspecific symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, depression, trouble sleeping, increased irritability;
• unwarranted or sudden weight changes;
• sexual dysfunction, infertility, menstrual problems in women;
• excessive hair growth;
• hereditary factor (adrenal disease in close relatives);
• endocrine system disorders;
• abdominal injuries.
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The procedure can be performed at the request of the patient, but the expediency of the need is determined by the doctor, taking into account a number of complaints, examination data and the results of laboratory tests.

Contraindications to ultrasound

This procedure is completely harmless for the body. It can be performed at any age (ultrasound is performed as children and adults). Pregnancy and breastfeeding are not contraindications. If a person has skin problems or open wounds at the examination site, the procedure should be postponed until they heal. In some cases, the patient may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but it is completely painless.

Preparation for Adrenal Ultrasound

The test is usually performed in the morning. It should be performed on an empty stomach, without food at least 12 hours before the examination. Three days prior to the scheduled date, you must be on a diet that completely excludes products that can lead to the production of gases. These include:

• Black bread;
• Milk;
• Cabbage;
• Peas;
• Beans;
• Juices;
• Carbonated beverages;
• Sweets;
• raw fruits and vegetables;
• fatty foods.

In some cases, the doctor who performs an ultrasound of the adrenal glands in Kyiv can prescribe the patient special pills that normalize intestinal peristalsis. This allows you to reduce the manifestations of flatulence.

The examination of the patient is carried out in the lying position on the couch. It is necessary to lift the upper part of clothes, open the abdomen, sides, or lower back, or remove them completely. A special gel is applied to the skin, after which the ultrasound transducer is placed on it. The doctor locates and examines the adrenal glands. The examination takes about 20 minutes. After that, the specialist makes a conclusion based on which a treatment tactic is developed.

References:

• pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6779521/.
• radiopaedia.org/articles/adrenal-gland.
• researchgate.net/publication/21354234_Ultrasonography_of_the_Adrenal_Gland.
• en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adrenal_gland.