Cardiovascular Screenings
February 18, 2010 posted by admin
Today, I want to talk about the importance of preventive screenings for your health. As a health ministry, we want to do more than fix problems after the fact. We make it a goal to help you prevent health complications and promote overall wellness.
Heart disease affects one in four adults in the US. Undergoing a screening can help prevent heart disease from affecting you.
We will be holding a Vascular Screening on Wednesday, March 10 from 1-4 pm. The three tests will be performed in the Radiology department at the hospital. Cardiovascular Screenings are done four times a year at the Sioux Center hospital.
What are the three tests that are offered?
There is a Carotid Ultrasound, Aorta Ultrasound, and the ABI test.
The Carotid Ultrasound shows whether plaque has narrowed your carotid arteries. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Plaque builds up on the insides of your arteries as you age. Too much plaque in a carotid artery can cause a stroke. The plaque can slow down or block the flow of blood through the artery, allowing a blood clot to form. A piece of the blood clot can break off and get stuck in the artery, allowing a blood clot to form. A piece of the blood clot can break off and get stuck in the artery, blocking blood flow to the brain. This is what causes a stroke.
The Aorta Ultrasound checks your abdominals. It finds, measures, and monitors an aneurysm in the aorta. An aneurysm may cause a large, pulsing lump in the abdomen.
The last test is the ABI or Ankle Brachial Index. Last week we talked about the benefits of the PADnet test in checking for peripheral artery disease or P.A.D. This test is also effective in checking for P.A.D. It evaluates circulation in the arms and legs. It can help predict the risk of future leg problems such as future leg rest pain, poor healing of foot wounds, and other leg conditions. It also helps predict your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Who should have these tests taken?
Anyone who is concerned about their heart health is encouraged to take the test. These screenings are at such low cost. Each test is only $45. So if you only want to undergo one test, you can do that. If you choose to do all three tests, it costs $95.
How do you sign up for the tests?
Just call the radiology department at 722-8116 and let them know you want to schedule an appointment for the Vascular Screening Clinic. They will set up a time for you to come in and can answer any questions you have about the screenings.
