In other cases, a doctor may order a Doppler ultrasound if a person has symptoms of a heart condition, such as: painful cramping in the leg muscles or hips while walking or climbing stairs.coldness in the feet or lower parts of the legs.This occurs when fatty deposits collect in arteries, restricting blood flow. Typically, a healthcare provider recommends a Doppler ultrasound if a person shows signs or symptoms of certain conditions, such as peripheral arterial disease. The following, for example, can reduce blood flow: Share on Pinterest A person may need a Doppler ultrasound if they have symptoms of a heart condition.Ī doctor may order a Doppler ultrasound if a person shows signs of reduced blood flow to the arms, neck, or legs. A continuous-wave Doppler sends a continuous stream of soundwaves, which allows the ultrasound to more accurately measure blood moving at faster speeds.A spectral Doppler shows blood flow as graphed data, and it can show whether the blood flow is blocked.A duplex Doppler takes a standard image of a blood vessel and graphs the data.A power Doppler is a newer form of color Doppler that provides more detail, but it cannot show in which direction blood is flowing.A color Doppler helps visualize the movement, speed, and direction of blood flow in color.There are several types of Doppler ultrasound: The reflected sound waves create an image of the way the blood is flowing. The goal is often to check blood flow through the arms and legs.ĭuring a Doppler ultrasound, a handheld device emits sound waves that bounce off moving objects, such as blood cells. Share on Pinterest A doctor can use a Doppler ultrasound to check blood flow.Ī Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of how a person’s blood is flowing through their veins and arteries.

Heart doppler test target