Practical Practitioner
By: Pamela Egan, FNP-C CDE
Prevention of stroke and other catastrophic illnesses
The effects of stroke can be devastating. Strokes can result in paralysis, loss of speech, and loss of memory.
Many strokes can be prevented with inexpensive and painless tests.
Stroke is the third leading killer in the United States. Ultrasound screening of the carotid artery can visualize the buildup of fatty plaque that may block the flow of blood to the brain and lead to stroke.
Many people who have strokes and aneurysms do not experience symptoms, however, you can take a proactive approach to your health.
A preventive ultrasound screening may identify life threatening problems early enough for you to take action.
Approximately 12 million Americans suffer from Peripheral Arterial Disease, often referred to as hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis.
This narrowing of the blood vessels in the legs is caused by the buildup of fatty plaque and is a strong predictor of heart disease.
PAD may show up in leg arteries before there are any signs or symptoms.
Ultrasound technology identifies the buildup of plaque in your carotid arteries (a leading cause of stroke), screens for abdominal aortic aneurysms and peripheral arterial disease (an indicator of coronary artery disease).
Bone Density Scans identify your risk for osteoporosis. Abnormal findings may suggest a risk of osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is responsible for about 1.5 million fractures a year, usually in the spine, hip or wrist. Many women with advanced osteoporosis develop compression fractures in their back.
This can be very painful. Bone Density Screening estimates the bone density.
I am happy to share with my patients reasonably priced wellness screens that may save their lives.
There is a special screening being conducted by Life Line Screening at the Best Western – Northpark Inn in Covington, Louisiana on May 6. Screenings include stroke/carotid artery, abdominal aortic aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease, and an osteoporosis screening. Prices range from $109 -$129.
For additional information call Life Line Screening at 1-800-636-0017.
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PamelaEgan.com > Health Articles > Disease Prevention
