Nobody likes to feel ill. When we age, our bodies start to wear down and it’s not unusual to have a general feeling of not feeling well. Sometimes this isn’t anything more than aches and pains that come with age, while other times it can be a sign of a larger problem. With help from diagnostic imaging, a medical provider can help to identify what’s causing these pains and suggest a resolution. If you’re not familiar with diagnostic imaging and how it can help your aging parent, our team at Sage Medical has some answers to this and other questions.

What is diagnostic imaging?

Diagnostic imaging is the use of medical imaging to look inside the body for clues that might help a doctor make a diagnosis. Everything from X-rays to CT scans to ultrasounds to EKGs, your medical provider can use these techniques to learn more about what might be causing your parent pain or other symptoms.

At Sage Medical, we offer mobile diagnostic imaging, which makes it easy for seniors who can’t make it into a clinic for one reason or another to get the care they need. Our specialists will come to your parent’s home to perform the necessary imaging.

Is all medical imaging used for diagnosing medical conditions?

While there are preferred methods of medical imaging to use for diagnostic imaging, there is no limit to what can be used. For instance, a CT scan is often preferred over an MRI simply because of the length of time that it takes to perform an MRI. However, they don’t provide the same information and will be used to identify different conditions. The same goes for X-rays, ultrasounds, and others. A medical professional will use their discretion to decide which method of diagnostic imaging is necessary to address the condition in question.

When should I schedule diagnostic imaging for my parent?

Some procedures like a mammogram should be done on a schedule to ensure nothing goes undetected. Additionally, patients who have a history of heart disease, an enlarged heart, or other risk factors should get regular EKGs to identify any changes. Other diagnostic imaging like ultrasounds, X-rays, or CT scans are used on an as-needed basis. There isn’t anything in particular that you need to look out for to schedule imaging for your parent. If there is anything you feel concerned about, speak with their medical provider regarding the issue, then they’ll make a decision about imaging going forward.

What do we do if we receive a diagnosis?

It can be difficult to deal with the news anytime you or a loved one receives a medical diagnosis. No matter how big or small the condition is, there are going to be changes that everyone has to learn to live with. The best thing you can do for your loved one is encouraging them to listen to their medical providers. Their medical experts will work hard to put together the best course of treatment to help address the issue at hand.

Reach out to learn more

If you’d like to learn more about diagnostic imaging and when to schedule your parent for a consultation, reach out to our team at Sage Medical. We can help you book an appointment at your parent’s home that works for their schedule. Give us a call at 480-118-6985 or send a message using our online contact form.