Kidney discomfort, urinary issues, or unexplained pain in your lower back could point to something more serious.
A renal ultrasound provides a clear, accurate look into what’s happening, helping your healthcare provider pinpoint the cause quickly.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or have ongoing concerns about your kidney health, a renal ultrasound may be your best first step toward relief and effective treatment.
Let’s break down what this procedure involves so you know exactly what to expect.
What Is a Renal Ultrasound?
A renal ultrasound is a painless test that uses sound waves to create images of your kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
It helps doctors visualize the size, shape, and structure of your kidneys and can detect abnormalities without radiation or contrast dyes.
Unlike CT scans or X-rays, ultrasounds are often the first step in evaluating kidney pain, urinary symptoms, or suspected kidney infections.
Common Symptoms That Require a Renal Ultrasound
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, your doctor may recommend a renal ultrasound:
- Persistent lower back or flank pain
- Burning sensation during urination
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- Difficulty urinating or frequent urge to go
- Unexplained swelling or bloating
- History of kidney stones or infections
These symptoms can point to a range of issues in the urinary tract, and ultrasound imaging provides a quick, effective way to investigate.
Conditions a Renal Ultrasound Can Detect
A renal ultrasound can help diagnose or monitor several conditions, including:
- Kidney stones
- Kidney infections (pyelonephritis)
- Cysts or tumors in the kidneys
- Hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidneys due to urine buildup)
- Congenital kidney abnormalities
- Obstructions in the urinary tract
- Kidney size changes due to chronic disease
Because it’s non-invasive and easy to perform, it’s also used to monitor known conditions or guide other procedures like biopsies.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A renal ultrasound is simple and usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Here’s what you can expect:
- You’ll lie on an exam table while a technician applies gel to your abdomen or back.
- A handheld device (transducer) will move over your skin, sending sound waves to create internal images.
- The process is painless, and there’s no downtime afterward.
You may be asked to drink water beforehand to fill your bladder, depending on the area being examined.
When to See a Doctor
Don’t ignore persistent or unusual kidney pain or urinary symptoms.
If you’re dealing with discomfort or recurring infections, a renal ultrasound could help identify the root cause and guide effective treatment.
Your primary care provider or a specialist may refer you, or you can speak with our team directly for assistance.
How to Book Your Renal Ultrasound Appointment
Midtown Medical Imaging offers advanced diagnostic imaging services, including same-day renal ultrasound appointments, to help you get answers—fast.
We offer multiple convenient locations across Fort Worth, with short wait times and flexible scheduling.
Get help from board-certified radiologists and experienced ultrasound technicians. We offer same-day or next-day availability in most cases.
Book your renal ultrasound today or contact our team to learn more.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personal medical concerns. Midtown Medical Imaging isn’t responsible for any actions taken based on this blog’s content.