Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit Lagos clinics and hospitals. While many causes are harmless, some require urgent medical attention. Ultrasound scanning is a safe, non-invasive way for doctors to identify the source of your pain quickly.
Common Causes of Abdominal Pain Diagnosed by Ultrasound
1. Gallbladder Issues
Symptoms: Sharp pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea after oily food.
What ultrasound shows: Stones, inflammation, or blocked bile ducts.
2. Liver Problems
Symptoms: Dull ache on the right side, jaundice, fatigue.
What ultrasound shows: Swelling, cysts, or abnormal tissue.
3. Kidney Stones or Infections
Symptoms: Flank pain, painful urination, blood in urine.
What ultrasound shows: Stone location, kidney swelling, or blockages.
4. Appendicitis
Symptoms: Sudden pain near the belly button shifting to the lower right.
What ultrasound shows: Swollen appendix, fluid buildup.
5. Pancreatitis or Pancreatic Abnormalities
Symptoms: Severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back.
What ultrasound shows: Inflammation, cysts, or duct blockages.
6. Intestinal Obstruction or Hernias
Symptoms: Cramping, bloating, vomiting.
What ultrasound shows: Loops of swollen intestine, trapped organs.
7. Gynecological Causes
Symptoms: Pelvic pain, irregular bleeding.
What ultrasound shows: Cysts, fibroids, or abnormal pregnancies.
How the Scan Works
Preparation may include fasting for 8 hours (for upper abdominal scans) or a full bladder (for pelvic scans). During the scan, warm gel is applied and a probe glides over the area — no pain, just slight pressure. Duration is typically 15-30 minutes.
⚠️ When to Seek Emergency Ultrasound
Go immediately if you have severe unrelenting pain, pain with fever/vomiting, signs of internal bleeding, or inability to pass stool/gas.
Don't Suffer in Silence!
If you or a loved one has unexplained abdominal pain, visit a doctor immediately and request an ultrasound scan.
Book Your Abdominal Scan in Lagos
Struggling with abdominal pain? Mascot Healthcare Clinic in Akoka (Yaba), Lagos offers abdominal and pelvic ultrasound scans. By appointment only, Mon–Sat, 9am–5pm — book online at mascothealthcare.com/setappointment.html or message us on WhatsApp/call to confirm your schedule.