Diagnostic Imaging in Portugal

Diagnostic imaging, also known as medical imaging, describes a variety of techniques to look inside the body to diagnose the cause of an injury or illness, as well as to find any signs of a health condition. It is also used to see how well your body responds to treatment for an illness or fracture. 

Many diagnostic imaging tests are noninvasive and painless. Some tests use a small amount of radiation exposure. Some require you to remain still inside a machine for a long time, which may cause little discomfort. 

Other diagnostic tests involve the insertion of a small camera attached to a thin, long tube (often referred to as a “scope”) into your body. These types of diagnostic tests are invasive and require anesthesia.

Some of the most common types of diagnostic imaging tests are as follows:

• X-ray is among the most well-known diagnostic imaging tests. It generates images that allow your doctor to see if there is any damage or injury to the bones.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan, also known as “cat scan,” is a test that combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles. It is often used to quickly examine people who could have internal injuries. It can help doctors evaluate the brain, spine, abdomen, chest, and neck.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnet to obtain an image of the body instead of radiation. It is most commonly used to examine spinal cord and brain anomalies, joint abnormalities, and tumors.
• Ultrasound, also known as sonography, uses high-frequency waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is most commonly used to examine a fetus during pregnancy. However, it can also be used to examine a wide range of body parts, including the heart, joints, and bladder.
• Mammography is a type of x-ray image of the breast. It can be used to check for early breast cancer signs that cannot be felt through the use of a low-dose x-ray.
• A diagnostic biopsy is the main method doctors use to diagnose most types of cancer. It involves the removal of a piece of tissue or cell sample to be analyzed in a laboratory.

• Endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy involve the insertion of a thin, flexible scope with a video camera attached to its end through a passageway or bodily opening to look at the inside of a particular organ, such as the colon or the lungs.

How Long Should I Stay in Portugal?

You can usually leave the hospital straight away after diagnostic imaging tests. However, it is advisable that you stay in Portugal for 5 to 7 days to wait for the results. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment where your doctor explains the results and discuss the treatment plan, if needed.

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound and CT scan, do not require any recovery time. However, you may need to take one or two days off work and avoid strenuous activities for several days after some types of diagnostic biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, and colposcopy.

What Aftercare is Required?

There is usually no special aftercare or restrictions after diagnostic imaging tests. You may be advised to drink plenty of water immediately after, especially if contrast was used. If the procedure is invasive, your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for the wounds. 

What's the Success Rate?

Diagnostic imaging tests have high success and accuracy rates. The continuous improvement and advancement of diagnostic imaging technology have transformed healthcare, allowing for earlier diagnosis of many medical conditions, reduces the need for invasive processes. The side effects of diagnostic imaging tests are very minimal, such as slight discomfort, pain, swelling, and bruising.

Are there Alternatives?

There are no alternatives to diagnostic imaging. It is vital for the diagnosis of medical conditions, allowing your doctor to decide the best treatment or management plan.

Diagnostic Imaging in and around Portugal

Introduction

Portugal is a country located in southwestern Europe. It’s one of the oldest nation-states of Europe and the world. Its territory had been continuously invaded, settled, and fought over since prehistoric times. Today, the country has become a major tourist destination, with its architecturally stunning cities, cobblestone villages, medieval castles, great food, stunning beaches, and incredible weather. Besides its beauty, Portugal is also attracting people from all around the world for its healthcare. The country offers a combination of state-of-the-art private medical centers, with spotless facilities and private rooms, a wide range of procedures, with very short waiting lists, as well as highly trained patient-oriented medical teams who are fluent in different languages. The physicians in this country have been trained by high standard medical schools, where just top and talented students are allowed to attend.

Popular Cities and Regions in Portugal

Lisbon is the capital and the largest city in Portugal. This city is filled with friendly people, history, mystique, and amazing food. Explore its many beautiful churches, listen to Fado, take a trip to the Castle of St. Jorge, see Sintra, and have some fun in one of its nightclubs. Another popular destination is Batalha, which is home to the UNESCO-listed Batalha Monastery. The monastery was build from 1386 to 1517 and is known as the greatest Gothic masterpieces in Europe. Those who want to party or soak up the sun should visit Lagos, while those who love to wander around and visit museums should visit Porto. Both of these cities are popular and fascinating.

Transport in Portugal

International tourists usually arrive at Lisbon Airport. It is a hub for low-cost airlines EasyJet and Ryanair, and it serves flights to numerous cities around the world. To get around Portugal, trains and buses are very efficient. While trains are often cheaper, buses are usually quicker. Taxis are available in almost every city and are relatively cheap. 

Visas in Portugal

Since Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, citizens of 62 countries, including the US, Australia, the UAE, and Canada, are allowed to visit without a visa for up to 90 days. Citizens of most other countries are required to obtain a Schengen visa to visit the country. 

Weather in Portugal

From March to May it is spring and the weather is pleasant but there will likely be some heavy rain. Summer, is from June to mid-September, can be scorching hot with temperatures rising to mid 30oC. Autumn, starts from mid-September to December and it brings colder temperatures but and an increased chance of rain. Winter can get quite cold and the days are shorter and always expect rain and storms during this season.

Additional Info

1. Local Currency: The euro is the official currency. 1 EUR is equivalent to 1.08 USD.
2. Money & Payments: ATMs are widely available, except in small villages. Credit cards are often accepted at midrange and high-end establishments. Tipping is usually expected at hotels and restaurants.
3. Local Language: The official language is Portuguese. However, English, French, and Spanish are widely spoken in the country.
4. Local Culture and Religion:  Christianity is the major religion of the country. Other religions are practiced by a small portion of the population.
5. Public Holidays: Portugal Day, Restoration of Independence, and Christmas Day are some of the public holidays celebrated in Portugal.