In this guide
6 min readDiagnostic Guide
Ultrasound is useful, but it cannot diagnose every digestive disease. Patients may still need gastroenterology evaluation when symptoms persist despite a normal scan.
Key Takeaways
- GERD or esophagitis
- Gastritis or ulcer
- H. pylori
- Colitis or polyps
- Early mucosal disease
What ultrasound may miss
Ultrasound does not directly inspect the food pipe, stomach or colon lining.
- GERD or esophagitis
- Gastritis or ulcer
- H. pylori
- Colitis or polyps
- Early mucosal disease
Symptoms needing review
Persistent acidity, pain, vomiting, bleeding, anemia, diarrhea, constipation or weight loss need evaluation even if ultrasound is normal.
Other tests
Depending on symptoms, endoscopy, colonoscopy, stool tests, blood tests, FibroScan, CT or MRCP may be advised.
Bring reports
Carry the ultrasound images/report and all previous medicines so the doctor can avoid repeating unnecessary tests.