Category Health Care

A mammogram is an essential part of maintaining the long-term health of your breasts, as it remains the primary method for helping to identify and diagnose the presence of breast cancer and other conditions. Regularly receiving a mammogram should be considered a protocol for all women. But how often should women have mammograms?

How Often Should Women Have Mammograms?

However, the guidelines surrounding the frequency with which a woman should go in for a checkup can change, leaving many people confused about how often they should engage in this activity.

If you’re thinking it might be time for you to receive a mammogram, take a look at this guide that describes how often you should head in for a 3D digital breast mammogram.

What Is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a type of diagnostic imaging test that is an X-ray of a woman’s breast. A mammogram is considered a first line of defense for helping a physician detect the presence of cancer and other conditions of the breasts.

Mammograms are considered highly safe and are completely painless as well. Following this, there’s no good reason for one to avoid engaging in this test on a regular basis. There is some advantage to returning to the same clinic and doctor for repeat tests, as this can help your medical professional study the health of your breasts over time.

How Often Should Women Have Mammograms?

Prior to the age of 40, most physicians recommend that a woman go in for a mammogram at least once every 3 years. After the age of 40, it is recommended that a woman receive a mammogram on an annual basis.

In addition, some doctors may recommend that a woman receive a mammogram annually, even before the age of 40. In addition, the frequency that you should receive a mammogram may increase if you have a history of conditions affecting your breasts, or if you have other types of health issues that might impact the health of your breasts.

What Occurs During a Mammogram?

During a mammogram, an imagist will compress the breasts between a set of firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue and prepare it for imaging. An x-ray then subsequently takes a series of black and white images that are displayed on a monitor to be read by your technician.

At this point, your images will be forwarded to your general practitioner for reading and analyzing. If your imagist or physician feels that further testing is warranted, then you may be referred for additional procedures or to see a specialist of some kind.

If you are referred for additional testing, it’s not necessarily something to panic about. Mentally preparing yourself for the complicated reality of diagnostic imaging tests is a worthwhile activity when you’re engaging in these types of tests.

Are There Any Risks Involved?

Mammograms are considered very low-risk medical procedures. However, you should be prepared for the following elements of a mammogram test:

• Radiation: A mammogram will expose you to a small amount of radiation.
• Fallibility: A mammogram is considered a very accurate medical test. However, mammograms can’t detect all kinds of cancers. This is why the test should be paired with a physical exam.
• Emotional Preparedness: Patients who receive a mammogram should be prepared to receive possibly extremely bad news if they are diagnosed with cancer. This includes the possibility of receiving a cancer diagnosis that is terminal, as many forms of breast cancer can be extremely aggressive.

Overall, the security provided by a mammogram is well worth the mild risks that are incurred by it. Preparing yourself emotionally in the case of disappointing results is a powerful step towards maintaining a state of health.

Preparing for a Mammogram

There are certain steps you can take to properly prepare yourself for a mammogram, as well as assist your medical personnel throughout the process. Some of the steps that can be taken in this regard include:

• Bring any prior mammogram images and tests that you may have received.
• Avoid wearing overly strong smells to your mammogram appointment
• Schedule your test for a time when your breasts are likely to less tender, away from your ovulation

Your physician may have additional advice for your preparatory period, depending on your medical history. This will be gone over during a pre-screening consultation and preparatory period that will occur before the actual test.

The Best Imaging Clinic in Texas

West Texas Health is one of the most highly regarded imaging clinics in Texas. If you feel like you might be due for a diagnostic mammogram at our women’s health center, contact us to set up an appointment.

A nuclear stress test is a tool that helps diagnose heart issues. It is also highly effective in monitoring your heart health and assessing the effectiveness of specific treatment plans. The results of this test help your doctor understand how your heart is functioning, which is critical for them to identify issues and improve your heart health. You may wonder, how are nuclear stress tests performed? Below, you will find helpful information about what to expect before, during, and after the test.

How Are Nuclear Stress Tests Performed?

A nuclear stress test is helpful in learning more about how your heart is working. The test involves two parts. If you have been scheduled for a nuclear stress test, it is important to consult with your doctor about how to prepare. They will provide you with helpful information about preparation, what to expect from their specific treatment process, and what will happen after. Below are general guidelines for how nuclear stress tests are performed.

Before the Nuclear Stress Test

You will need to physically prepare before your nuclear stress test. Things patients are most often told to avoid include eating, drinking, or taking certain medications for some time before your test. Your doctor will provide you with specific information about this. It is essential to follow their instructions carefully. Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your doctor first, as this can be dangerous and may impact your results. On the day of the exam, wear comfortable clothes. You should be able to exercise in them if the test calls for it.

During the Nuclear Stress Test

A nuclear stress test is performed at a cardiovascular health center. The nuclear stress test starts with an injection. The injection is a small amount of radioactive material. It is referred to as a tracer and is injected into your arm. The injection travels through your bloodstream to reach your heart. It is then absorbed by your heart. A special camera will then take a set of images while you are lying down. They show how your blood flows to your heart when you are resting. 

The second phase of the test involves assessing your heart when your body is not at rest. This portion of the exam is completed by measuring your heart during exercise or with medication. During this time, another set of images is taken. This shows the doctor how well your blood flows to your heart when it is under stress. Throughout the entire exam, several things are monitored, including your heart rate and blood pressure.

After the Nuclear Stress Test

Once the test is complete, you will be asked to rest for a short period. The doctor will observe you to ensure that your heart rate normalizes. The doctor will assess the images and review them with you. In some cases, you may need to set up a follow-up appointment to discuss your results. Your doctor will let you know what to expect after the nuclear stress test in advance. 

Do I Need A Nuclear Stress Test?

Your nuclear cardiology doctor will determine if you need a nuclear stress test. There are several reasons why you may need a nuclear stress test. The most common reasons are as follows.

Diagnosing Heart Conditions

A nuclear stress test assesses whether someone has coronary artery disease. It is also helpful in diagnosing several other heart conditions and assessing the severity of heart disease.

Treatment Assessment

If you are undergoing treatment for heart issues, a nuclear stress test can help assess your treatment. Your doctor can use the information to determine whether other treatments are necessary or if you are on the right track.

Apex Cardiology

The team of experts at Apex Cardiology is skilled in nuclear stress tests. If you feel you need to schedule an appointment for a nuclear stress test, contact their team today! 

Orbital trauma refers to a spectrum of physical injuries, diseases, and congenital disorders that hurt the orbital area. Physical injuries and lesions on the eyelids may require orbital trauma care. Conditions such as ptosis and blepharospasms can worsen overall eye health when left untouched by surgical intervention. Depending on your individual needs, we will recommend the best avenue of treatment. 

What treatments are available for orbital trauma at the office of our oculofacial reconstructive surgeon? This quick guide will discuss specific forms of orbital trauma and their most effective treatment options. 

What is Orbital Trauma?

The area around your eyes is susceptible to damage. A blow to the eye can cause a myriad of orbital issues, leading to physical and medical trauma. A car accident or a collision with a wall, for example, can cause a variety of problems around the eyes. 

The most common type of orbital trauma is an orbital fracture. Orbital fractures occur when the fragile bony structure surrounding your eye is hit with such a force that it breaks. Such impact can cause a fracture that “blows out” your orbital bone and causes it to fall out of alignment. While some minor cases of orbital trauma may not need surgical intervention, anyone dealing with symptoms of pain and swelling due to an orbital fracture should receive treatment right away.

Orbital Trauma Treatment Options

The first step to determine what course of treatment is best for you is to schedule a consultation with our surgeon. During your appointment, give as many details as possible about the type of injury you are dealing with. Aside from a bony fracture, orbital trauma can also indicate underlying issues such as ptosis or Graves’ Disease. The doctor will want to rule out as many causes as possible to find the best solution. 

At the office of Dr. Jennifer Murdock, we typically offer three distinct treatments for orbital trauma: 

Reconstruction

Full reconstruction is usually only used as a last resort, necessary only in cases of extreme emergency trauma. During reconstructive surgery, the surgeon uses various techniques, such as bone grafting and mesh reconstruction, to create a stable orbital structure. 

Reconstructive surgery can also involve orbital decompression. Certain conditions, such as emphysema, can put undue pressure on the orbital area, causing significant pain and swelling behind the eye. Orbital decompression releases some of this pressure, creating a larger space for your eyes to rest in their proper place. 

Orbital Implants

You might have gone through an injury or illness that has caused your eye to be removed. If you are missing an eye, you can receive an orbital implant in your eye sockets. This natural-looking implant can support the structure of your orbital bone while also providing great aesthetic appeal. 

Orbital implants are a recommended course of action for anyone struggling to regain confidence after losing an eye. We can carefully create and place a custom implant that will improve your facial structure and give you confidence the next time you look in the mirror.

Fracture Repair

A more common type of orbital trauma surgery that we provide includes fracture repair. Fractures can range from mild to severe, so it is important to check with your doctor first to see if surgery is the correct way to go. Major orbital fractures happen when part of the orbital bone breaks away from the rest of it, creating a spatial gap. Orbital surgery can use techniques like skin and bone grafting to create a support around the broken piece of bone.

Reconstruction from Previous Surgery

Orbital surgery requires a high level of precision and expertise. From time to time, a surgeon can make a mistake, leaving you with less-than-favorable results. Your botched surgery might also result from an injury that occurred during the healing process. Whatever the reason for your current dissatisfaction with the state of your orbital bone, you can opt for reconstructive surgery. 

Find Treatment for Your Orbital Trauma Today

Whether your orbital trauma is new or has been building up over a long period, appropriate treatments are available to fit your specific needs. Get informed about orbital trauma and the different types of injuries and conditions that might warrant the need for surgery. 

Visit Dr. Jennifer Murdock, a top-rated oculofacial reconstructive surgeon in Miami, to schedule your consultation. Orbital trauma only worsens the longer it is left untreated, so it is a good idea to act fast. Get both reconstructive and cosmetic repair to leave you feeling refreshed, healthy, and whole again. 

A CT scan is a medical imaging tool used to see the heart and blood vessels. The results allow your doctor to see any potential issues in your heart. It can also be used to monitor your progress if you are undergoing medical treatment for your heart. The procedure is non-invasive and highly effective. Below, you will find information detailing when you should go for cardiac CT imaging.

When Should You Go For Cardiac CT Imaging?

A CT scan is also referred to as a cardiac computed tomography scan. It is highly effective in detecting several heart conditions because it examines your heart and blood vessels. Your primary care provider or cardiology doctor may recommend it. It is critical to follow their instructions, as the results can provide vital information about your health. There are several reasons someone should get a CT scan.

Coronary Artery Disease

CT scans are helpful in detecting coronary artery disease. The imaging detects blockages and narrowing of the arteries, among other important information. This information can reduce your risk for heart attacks and other cardiac complications. Your cardiology doctor uses the information to create an effective coronary artery disease treatment plan.

Congenital Heart Defects

Congenital heart defects can impact your heart and overall health. A CT scan effectively gets images of the entire heart. These details allow a cardiology doctor to diagnose and monitor the defect. Undiagnosed congenital heart defects can result in serious health issues. Medical intervention is key, and a CT scan can help your doctor create a treatment plan that is right for you. 

Heart Valve Issues

Heart valve issues can impact your health and lead to serious health issues. Valve issues often involve narrowing or leakage. A CT scan can evaluate the function of your heart valves. This information can aid your cardiology doctor in finding a treatment plan for you. Surgical intervention may be necessary. This is why it is critical to get a CT scan when your doctor recommends it.

Management and Evaluation

CT scans are important when diagnosing several heart conditions. However, they are also an effective tool for evaluating and monitoring heart conditions. They can assess how treatment is going for a heart condition and be used before or after surgery to see any changes that have occurred. CT scans are a highly valuable tool used by cardiology doctors to ensure your heart health stays in good shape.

Non-Invasive Cardiac CT Imaging

Preparing for a CT scan is simple. It’s helpful to follow your cardiology doctor’s instructions. This may include fasting, adjusting your medications, and following other pre-scan instructions. You should also avoid wearing jewelry when you go to your appointment. Be sure to consult with your primary care provider before adjusting any of your medications. 

The scan is non-invasive and fairly fast. You should be in and out of the office within 90 minutes. Non-invasive cardiac CT imaging involves several steps. You will need to lie down on a table during the scan. Electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate. A dye is injected into your body to improve the clarity of the CT scan images. From there, you need to stay still and may be prompted to hold your breath. Once the imaging is complete, a radiologist will analyze the images. From there, your doctor will reach out to you regarding your results. 

Apex Cardiology

The team at Apex Cardiology has helped countless patients improve their heart health. If you need a CT scan, contact Apex Cardiology to schedule your appointment!

Breast examinations can cause a woman anxiety for several different reasons. However, there are many benefits to a regular breast examination. In fact, regular breast checkups are an essential component of maintaining optimal breast health during a woman’s lifetime. Failing to engage in this essential process can leave an individual unaware of emerging health risks.

Knowing the ways that this can benefit you can encourage people to more consistently engage in this process, which ultimately has the potential to ensure better health in the long run. If you are on the fence about having a breast examination, take a look at this overview of the ways that an in-office mammogram can help you.

What Occurs During a Breast Examination?

During a breast examination, your physician will examine your breasts to determine whether or not there are abnormalities present. Should they determine that there is something to investigate further, then they will likely refer you for further testing and imaging work.

Overall, the entire process takes little time. It is usually completed within minutes. This allows patients to complete their examination at a convenient time of their choosing.

Although receiving a breast examination can be intimidating or anxiety-provoking, it beats the alternative, as failing to engage in this essential health practice can leave one completely unaware of the internal health of their breasts.

5 Benefits of a Regular Breast Examination

1. It Can Give You Peace of Mind

One of the main benefits of consistent breast examinations is that they have the potential to offer a patient peace of mind. Regardless of whether you ultimately have an issue with your breasts or not, getting them consistently examined can give you a clear answer and dispense any ambiguity.

Knowledge is power, and this applies to one’s health as well. Taking control of your relationship with your body can leave you feeling more empowered and able to respond to the potential issues that arise.

2. It Can Alert You to Developing Problems

One of the main advantages of receiving consistent examinations is that it is the most surefire way to alert you to potential developing health issues in your breasts. For almost all major health issues, it pays to catch issues that are developing early, as this increases the likelihood that you will be able to solve the issue with less stress.

In addition, taking care of issues on the earlier side can prevent further complications with other aspects of your health. Overall, it

3. It Can Give Your Doctor a Portrait of Your Health History

Medical professionals are able to offer individuals a higher level of medical care if they have a clearer portrait of an individual’s health history. If you stick to receiving treatment from the same technician, then there is a higher chance that you will be able to build a more intimate relationship with them in terms of how they understand your progress or lack of progress in major areas of your health.

This can often mean the difference between receiving high-quality care from someone who understands your body and being rushed through a process with a doctor who does not take your needs into account.

4. It Can Possibly Save Your Life

Although relatively rare, breasts can face very serious ailments, such as breast cancer. Failing to catch these conditions as they develop can have dire consequences, as it is essential to catch these types of diseases early in order to lessen their impact.

If you catch conditions like breast cancer early, you will have a significantly higher chance of beating it and maintaining a higher standard of health throughout your life. On the other hand, failing to catch cancer at the appropriate time can have deadly consequences.

5. It Can Help You in Other Medical Areas

If you determine whether or not a problem you are dealing with originates in the breasts, it can help you rule out certain health complications. This can help you determine what the correct path forward is for taking the best care of your health. Overall, as a quick and effective method of diagnosis, there’s no reason not to engage.

Your Resource for Breast Examination in Abilene 

West Texas Health is one of the most trusted clinics in Texas for providing patients with high-quality examinations and imaging care. Now that you know the benefits of a regular breast examination, contact our clinic today to discuss your options for moving forward with one in Abilene.

Nasolacrimal surgery is a procedure that helps patients with tear duct blockage. If you notice that you cannot properly cry or your eyes are constantly watering without leaking, you might be dealing with a blocked duct. There are a few reasons why you might be experiencing nasolacrimal obstruction. It is essential to identify what is causing this unhealthy buildup. After speaking with our surgeon, you will know if you should get nasolacrimal surgery.

Nasolacrimal surgery should be performed by a reconstructive plastic surgeon who has plenty of experience with this procedure. Learn more about the common symptoms and causes of tear duct blockage and find out what nasolacrimal surgery entails by reading the article below. 

Causes of Tear Duct Obstruction

Your nasolacrimal duct is responsible for the release of tears, which drain toxins and other debris from your eye. Tears are necessary if you want to keep your eyes and ducts as healthy as you can. While this does not mean you need to start crying every day, it can be a cause for concern if you cannot cry at all. 

Your tear ducts might be obstructed for a number of reasons. First, you might be born with a congenital condition. It is common for babies to be born with blocked tear ducts, for example. This usually is not a cause for concern since the tear ducts become naturally unblocked within a year or so. However, you might have also had a physical injury or trauma that damaged this part of your face. Certain ailments and even some medical treatments can also cause the tear ducts to get blocked. 

Symptoms of Nasolacrimal Blockage

If you are struggling with tear duct blockage, you should go down this list of symptoms to see if your case is so severe that it warrants nasolacrimal surgery. There is a difference between finding it difficult to cry and having a real blockage that allows debris to build up in your tear ducts. 

Some of the most common symptoms of a blocked tear duct include: 

• Redness and puffiness around the eyes, especially the lower eyelids
• Your eyes are constantly tearing up.
• Your vision gets blurry.
• There is mucous coming from your eyes.
• You are consistently swollen or irritated around the eyes.
• You cannot properly blink.
• You get eye infections often, including conjunctivitis (pinkeye) 

If you are experiencing these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Depending on how long you have dealt with these issues, you might need urgent treatment. 

What Nasolacrimal Surgery Entails 

The doctor will perform a series of tests to properly diagnose you with blocked nasolacrimal ducts. This usually includes eye irrigation, vision tests, and other types of imaging. After determining the extent of your blockage, a treatment plan will be suggested. Antibiotic eye drops, and rest can sometimes relieve the blockage. In other cases, nasolacrimal surgery might be necessary. 

Dacryocystorhinostomy

Tear duct surgery, also called DCR, works in one of two ways. It can either repair a blocked tear duct or create an alternate pathway for tears to flow down, essentially solving the blockage problem. You can speak with your doctor about whether or not you want to bypass your current blockage or get rid of it completely. 

This surgical procedure requires anesthesia during surgery. Your surgeon may use external techniques or may need the assistance of a tube that goes up your nose during the procedure. Depending on the severity of your needs, you can avoid visible scar tissue as soon as you are healed. 

Recovery Time

Once you wake up from your procedure, you will feel a little uncomfortable. There may be gauze in your nose to prevent bleeding and other bandages around your face. You should be able to go home on the same day. Make sure you take your prescribed antibiotics and eyedrops home with you, as you should start with them right away. 

As long as you follow your doctor’s instructions following surgery, you should have a quick and easy recovery. Most of our patients heal up within a few weeks, boasting beautiful results and enjoying your newly repaired nasolacrimal ducts. 

Fix Your Tear Ducts with Nasolacrimal Surgery Today

The symptoms of a blocked tear duct can be frustrating and painful. If you are tired of consistently swelling and tearing up, it might be time to unblock your tear duct with our innovative surgical procedures. Visit Dr. Jennifer Murdock’s office to learn more about tear duct blockage and the appropriate treatment plan for you. 

An echocardiogram is a vital medical test. Often referred to as an “echo,” the test is essentially an ultrasound of your heart. Doctors use the test to look for issues with your heart. It tests how blood moves through the chambers and valves of your heart. Your primary care provider or cardiologist can order an echocardiogram if they are concerned about your heart health. If you have any concerns about your cardiovascular health, you should reach out to your doctor. In the meantime, this guide will explain who is a candidate for echocardiography and if you fall into this category.

Who Is a Candidate for Echocardiography?

There are several reasons someone may need an echocardiogram. The text examines your heart and can determine abnormalities. Consider the following reasons why someone may be a candidate for an echocardiogram.

Congenital Heart Disease

Some people are born with heart defects, which are characterized by problems with the formation of the heart. An echocardiogram is effective in assessing formation issues, such as a hole or an abnormal connection. Untreated heart defects can cause serious issues later on.

Heart Murmurs

Unusual sounds from your heart characterize a heart murmur. Doctors hear them when they use a stethoscope to listen to your heart. Murmurs occur when blood abnormally flows through your heart. An echocardiogram is used to see what is happening inside your heart.  

Heart Valve Issues

Your heart has four valves. The valves open and close to let blood flow in the right direction. Sometimes, valves may become too right or leak, which can cause health issues if left unaddressed. An echocardiogram provides your cardiology doctor with helpful information to treat the heart valve issue.

Blood Clots

Blood clots can form inside your heart. If left unaddressed, they can be highly dangerous and fatal. Echocardiography in Los Angeles is often used to determine if a patient has a blood clot. This is essential information for your doctor, as they can use it to treat the issue. 

Symptom Evaluation

Some patients have several symptoms that indicate heart issues. Common symptoms include chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and a fast or slow heartbeat. An echocardiogram is beneficial, as your doctor can see if the symptoms are associated with your heart. From there, they can diagnose and treat the issue much more easily.

Echocardiogram Testing

An echocardiogram typically takes roughly 30-60 minutes from start to finish. You will be on a special bed in a hospital gown, so the equipment can easily be placed on your chest area. The technician will then apply gel to your chest so they can produce a more clear image. A special tool called a transducer is used to take the echocardiogram. The technician will move the transducer around your chest to get as many quality images as possible. Once the technician has taken all of the information they need, the test is over. From there, the doctor will examine your results and get back to you regarding what they found.

Echocardiography in Los Angeles

If you are at high risk for developing heart conditions, it is crucial to work with a skilled cardiologist. They can assess your risk for certain conditions and provide you with important information about how to care for your health. If you are not high-risk but have concerns about your health, consult with a medical professional right away. The team at Apex Cardiology is skilled in cardiology and has provided countless echocardiograms. Contact their team today to schedule an appointment! 

Allergies can affect people year-round, contributing to a series of negative symptoms and traits. You might be affected by the pollens that fly through the air during the spring. Or perhaps you are allergic to grass and deal with itching and irritation during the summertime. No matter what time of the year you deal with seasonal symptoms, you should invest in professional allergy services and take steps to prepare for seasonal allergies. 

If you feel allergy symptoms are starting to creep up on you, read on to learn steps you can take to prepare for seasonal allergies.

5 Steps You Can Take to Prepare for Seasonal Allergies

1. Learn Your Allergy Triggers

Different allergies stem from different triggers and allergens. It is important to recognize what exactly sparks your allergic reactions. For example, if you are allergic to flower pollens, stay indoors on particularly windy days. If you have multiple allergic reactions and cannot quite pinpoint the source, we encourage you to visit us for a comprehensive allergy test. 

2. Learn When Allergy Season Starts

Season allergies can occur every few months. Those with severe reactions might feel like they are always coming down with different allergy symptoms. Knowing when to expect seasonal flare-ups can help you prepare for the difficult times ahead. More importantly, knowing what to expect can help you avoid these problems altogether. 

Most people experience spring allergies, which can begin as early as February and last through the summer. Late summer and fall allergies exist as well, as the changing leaves and intense weather patterns take a toll on our bodies. Avoiding pollens, mold, dander, and other possible allergens during these peak times will keep your symptoms at bay. 

3. Equip Your Home with the Essentials

During particularly bad bouts of weather, you may want to stay indoors and avoid an allergic reaction—let alone a cold. If you are already struggling with an outbreak of allergies, these at-home essentials can help: 

• Combine your air conditioner and dehumidifier to create a cool and dry environment, free of moisture in the air. 
• Use designated filters and HEPA items to keep even the most microscopic of allergens out of the air in your home. 
• Try to sweep and vacuum often to keep the area clean. 

If your allergies are very serious, you might also be prescribed medication like an inhaler or an EpiPen for use in an emergency.

4. List and Track Your Symptoms

If you are ready to get medical help for your seasonal allergy problems, you have come to the right place. When you reach out to our West Texas Health experts, we will ask you to describe the exact symptoms you are experiencing. Depending on the type of seasonal allergies you get, as well as how intense your symptoms are, there might be a specific type of treatment that works for you. 

Many allergy symptoms are similar to those of a common cold. Fever, sore throat, runny nose, congestion, coughing, watery eyes, itchiness, rash, and fatigue can all be signs that you are having an allergic reaction. 

5. Get Started with an Appropriate Treatment Plan

The longer you go without seeking appropriate care for seasonal allergies, the worse your symptoms can get. Instead of waiting for your health to deteriorate, you can get essential medical care in Abilene by reaching out to our friendly experts today. We can help you narrow down your allergy symptoms to pinpoint the exact trigger. With a combination of education and prescribed medication, you can set yourself up for an allergy-free future. Get started with us today to learn more! 

Any healthcare physician will tell you about the importance of scheduling a screening mammogram regularly. This is an opportunity to assess the health of your breasts while checking for any abnormalities. These preventative measures can possibly save you from years of pain and expensive treatment. Below, we cover what to know ahead of your screening mammogram.

What to Know Ahead of Your Screening Mammogram

If you are getting a mammogram in Abilene for the first time or for the first time in a while, you are probably eager to learn more. In this article, we will discuss what to know ahead of your screening mammogram so you can be fully prepared for your appointment.

The Preparation Process

You do not need to do anything in particular before your appointment, such as fasting or taking a certain medication. But it is important that you are also mentally prepared. To help the process run more smoothly, make sure you wear clothing with a top that is easily removable. A mammogram requires you to remove all clothing above the waist.

You can bring lotion or deodorant with you to apply after the mammogram, which can provide some instant relief and comfort. However, make sure that you do not use these products before your screening. Certain products can show up as spots on mammogram results, but they will look indistinguishable from other spots, which could be a cause for concern.

During Your Appointment

If you have had a mammogram before, you should bring your records with you. This can help the doctor gauge whether or not there have been any changes since your last screening. Before you begin, you should let the doctor know whether you have implants or if you are breastfeeding. If you have trouble standing up straight and still, please let us know so we can provide you with the proper means of accessibility.

The Mammogram

You will be in a standing position during your mammogram screening. There will be two plates on which each breast will be put. Two upper plates will come down and compress your breast tissue slowly during the screening. It will feel like your breasts are being squished, which can cause some discomfort. You will feel the machine rotating a few times in order to capture images and X-rays of your breast tissue.

Your appointment will last around 45 minutes or less, but the time you will spend with your breasts in the mammogram machine is much shorter. Most screenings take just a few minutes! The machine spends about 15 seconds taking each image, and the doctor will likely take a few images of each breast.

Do Mammograms Hurt?

Some people experience pain during the mammogram screening. Most experience discomfort. A lot of people have avoided their necessary mammogram screenings in the past because they worry about the painful process.

While mammograms can be a bit painful, the sensation only lasts a few seconds at a time. We need to compress your breast tissue to get an accurate and detailed reading of your chest area, as well as to prevent radiation from reaching other parts of your body. You can take Advil or Tylenol prior to your appointment to help ease any feelings of pain.

Assessing Your Results

Once the radiologist receives your mammogram images, testing will begin. The doctor will look for any signs of abnormality, including solid masses that may or may not be cancer. Mammograms are also helpful to measure things such as breast density, fibrous tissue, calcifications, and more.

In some cases, you will receive your results on the very same day that you had your mammogram screening. You may have to wait until the next business day. However, you can usually find your results pretty fast. If you are called back for a second mammogram, do not panic – this is common and can mean a lot of different things. Your doctor may want to simply give you another screening to establish a record of your breast health.

Get in touch with your trusted Abilene gynecologists to schedule your mammogram screening today.

Trips to medical clinics, especially when it involves undergoing tests, cause a lot of stress and anxiety to many patients. Not only are they anxious about the results of the tests, but they are also worried about how much pain and discomfort are involved. A nuclear stress test is a common medical procedure that may intimidate patients. However, understanding what it is and what to expect during the procedure can help ease worries and lessen stress. So, does a nuclear stress test hurt? This is one of the common questions cardiology doctors may get from patients when they are told to have one.

What Is a Nuclear Stress Test?

A nuclear stress test is a type of stress test that uses imaging to see how the blood flows from the heart into the heart muscle while the patient is at rest and during exercise. It is usually ordered by a cardiologist and done by a doctor or radiology technologist.  A small amount of radioactive material called a tracer will be injected into the patient’s bloodstream. This will make the blood vessels and heart muscle more visible when a special camera takes pictures of the blood flow in and around the patient’s heart.

Doctors usually use this test to diagnose coronary artery disease. But there are also other things it can do. It can:

• assess how well the heart muscle is pumping
• identify any blocked arteries
• determine if the heart has any damage
• check if a person has had a heart attack
• determine if a person’s heart is capable of managing physical activities
• determine the reason for chest pain 

Does a Nuclear Stress Test Hurt?

Concerns about pain and discomfort are normal, and knowing that the procedure does not cause any significant amount of pain aside from the prick of the needle when the tracer is injected into the bloodstream is a great relief to many patients.

One might experience muscle fatigue, breathlessness, chest discomfort, dizziness, and shortness of breath during the exercise part of the test. Patients should inform the healthcare provider at once if they start experiencing any of these.

If your doctor has ordered a nuclear stress test for you, feel free to tell him how you feel. Knowing what to expect and discussing your anxieties with your doctor will do a lot of good in calming your nerves.

What to Expect on the Day of the Procedure

1. A health provider will insert an IV into your arm, and the tracer will be injected into the bloodstream. If you feel cold at first, that is normal.
2. Electrodes will be placed on your chest, arms, and legs.
3. These electrodes will be connected to an EKG machine.
4. Your blood pressure will also be monitored.
5. You will be asked to stay still as you lie on a table and then exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike after that. You will have to continue exercising with increasing intensity until your heart has reached a target rate. However, this should not be a cause for worry because you can stop anytime you feel uncomfortable or when you experience bothersome symptoms.

How to Prepare for the Procedure

1. Your doctor may tell you not to eat, drink, or smoke before the test. You may also be required to avoid caffeine the day before and on the day itself.
2. Since some medicines may affect test results, it would be wise to inform your doctor of the medications you are presently taking just in case there is a need to stop taking some of them temporarily. However, do not stop taking any medications without your doctor’s consent or advice.
3. If you have asthma, make sure to bring your inhaler to the clinic with you.
4. Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Refrain from applying lotion, oil, or anything on your skin on the day of the nuclear stress test.

Post-Test Information

You may be asked to rest for a while after the test as the clinic continues to monitor your heartbeat and breathing. You can go back to your regular activities afterward unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise. 

Remember to drink a lot of water to help get the tracer out of your system.

Common Concerns 

Radiation exposure

A nuclear stress test usually takes two to four hours, and the amount of radiation patients are exposed to is usually low and safe. Besides, the benefits of accurate diagnosis that the stress test can give far outweigh the minimal risks associated with radiation.

Driving after the test

Most patients can drive themselves home, but if you are unsure, ask a family member or a trusted friend to take you to the clinic and bring you home afterward.

Take the Nuclear Stress Test as Your First Step to Better Health

It is normal to feel stressed, worried, and anxious if your cardiologist orders a nuclear stress test. But your new knowledge about what it is, what to expect, the fact that it does not hurt, and its many benefits will hopefully empower you to make the right decision to put your fears aside and schedule your much-needed nuclear stress test today.