Healthy veins have valves that open and close to assist the return of blood to the heart. Vein disease occurs when these valves become damaged, allowing the backward flow of blood in the legs where it can pool, leading to a number of health issues.
Catching It Early
Early detection of all vascular disease can be the key to preventing a number of health issues, including those previously discussed. Diagnostic ultrasound is a non- invasive imaging method that uses high- frequency sound waves to look at the blood flow in the major arteries and veins in the limbs. During an ultrasound exam, a water- soluble gel is placed on a handheld device called a transducer, and images are created as the transducer is moved over each area. The results can show if, and to what degree, a blood vessel is blocked.
At my practice, we use ultrasound to “look into” the venous system and see which way the blood is flowing, like a road map for the venous system. Ultrasound mapping shows us if and where a vein valve (or multiple valves) in the legs is dam- aged. Finding the “source” of the problem is a critical step in establishing where exactly treatment should start.
We also use ultrasound to view and measure the abdominal aorta in order to detect any enlargement. We test for P.A.D. using the Ankle to Brachial Index (ABI). The ABI test compares the blood pressure in the ankle with the blood pressure in the arm.
Finally, the diagnostic screening of the carotid arteries is one of the best methods to detect early atherosclerosis because it correlates with many known risk factors for heart disease.
Dr. Cindy Asbjornsen is the founder of the Vein Health- care Center in South Portland, Maine. Certified by the Ameri- can Board of Venous and Lym- phatic Medicine, she cares for
all levels of venous disease, including spider veins, varicose veins and venous ulcers. She is the only vein specialist in Maine to be named a Fellow by the American College of Phle- bology. You can contact Dr. Asbjornsen at 207-221-7799 or
info@veinhealthcare.com. See ad on back cover.
Do you need a better relationship with food?
Are you constantly eating on the run?
Do you have trouble following through with change?
We are all tempted to jump into new helath and wellness routines, only to lose our resolve a few weeks in.
Why not commit to a mindfulness practice to maintain your health goals? Your mind and your body will thank you!
Achieve Your Goals with Prescence of Mind!
142 High Street, Portland, ME • 207.229.3444
www.presenceofmindstudio.com
COULD BE HERE! Contact Lynda Adams
YOUR AD
lynda@essentiallivingmaine.com 207.650.4383
www.EssentialLivingMaine.com 15
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
