Venous insufficiency is a condition whereby the walls and valves in the veins do not work properly, so the blood does not flow normally through the circulatory system to the heart. When this happens, blood tends to pool in various areas in the veins – most obviously in the legs – and this can cause swelling and varicose veins. Whereas arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the tissues and organs throughout the body, veins carry the oxygen-depleted blood back to the heart for ... [Read More]
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What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart. In short, it's a heart ultrasound that shows a live picture of it beating. Apart from determining the pulse and its rhythm, the echocardiogram helps evaluate the heart's overall function. The procedure checks on the valves, walls, chambers, and blood vessels, as well. Why are Echocardiograms Done? Aside from the need for regular checkups, doctors use the test to look at the patient's heart ... [Read More]
Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a much more widespread health condition than what was previously thought, affecting up to 18 million Americans. It is potentially life-threatening because it can interfere with breathing during sleep, and it can affect anyone regardless of age or gender. When a person snores loudly while they sleep and wakes up feeling fatigued despite a long night’s sleep, there is a high probability that sleep apnea is the cause. Let’s talk about the symptoms of sleep apnea and what can be ... [Read More]
Common Types of Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the internal organs and tissues in the human body. An ultrasound uses echoes, rather than radiation, to produce an image – also called a sonogram – and construct the picture. This way, doctors can identify any issues inside the body. Although ultrasound is best known for its use in evaluating pregnancy, it is also very helpful in biopsies. An ultrasound can help detect cancerous tumors or ... [Read More]
What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
If you’re 50 or older, or if you are having intestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, or diarrhea, then a colonoscopy is in order. This is the best way for doctors to check for colorectal issues or polyps, which can be precursors to colon cancer. During a colonoscopy, the physician will remove any polyps that are found so that the polyps do not become cancerous. During the several days before having a colonoscopy, there are preparatory steps that must be ... [Read More]
