What is a Color Doppler?

A Color Doppler is a special type of ultrasound. It checks how blood flows through your blood vessels.

It shows the speed and direction of blood flow in color on a screen. This helps doctors find any blockages, clots, or slow circulation.

It is completely safe. There is no radiation, no pain, and no injections.

Why Might You Need a Color Doppler?

Doctors suggest a Color Doppler to check:

• Blood flow in pregnancy (baby and placenta)
• Blood clots in arms or legs
• Varicose veins or poor circulation
• Blocked or narrowed arteries
• Blood supply to organs like kidneys or liver
• Heart valve function
• Lumps or swelling in any area

How Is It Done?

• You lie down on the exam table.
• A clear, cool gel is applied to the area being tested.
• A device called a transducer is moved over the gel.
• It sends sound waves inside the body. These waves bounce off moving blood and create live images.
• On screen, red shows blood flowing toward the probe, and blue shows blood flowing away.
• You may hear a swishing or pulsing sound – that’s just your blood flow.
• The whole scan takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Preparation Before the Test

Preparation depends on what area needs to be checked:

• Abdomen/Pelvis: Do not eat for 6–8 hours. You can drink water.
• Pregnancy Doppler: Drink 3–4 glasses of water an hour before. A full bladder helps.
• Neck, arms, legs, heart: Usually no preparation needed.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothes
• Avoid coffee or smoking before the test (for blood flow tests)

After the Test

• The gel is cleaned off easily.
• You can go home or back to your routine right after.
• No side effects at all.
• The test is safe for everyone – including pregnant women and children.
• Reports are usually ready within 1–2 days.

Walk-ins and Appointments

You may walk in, but we suggest you call ahead to confirm availability:

A Note for Patients

Please bring:

• Any previous ultrasound reports (if related to the same issue)
• A note or referral from your doctor (if available)

Also, inform us if you have:

• Any recent surgeries
• Ongoing treatments
• Open wounds in the scan area

Fast. Painless. Safe. Reliable.
Color Doppler helps doctors see how well your blood is flowing — without a single prick.