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Affordable Preventative Stroke & Organ Screening
Your health is our priority. Stay proactive today!
Your health is our priority. Stay proactive today!
At VidaMed, we are dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of our community through affordable preventative care. Our mission is to provide accessible vascular and organ ultrasounds that empower individuals to take charge of their health.
What are the Carotid Arteries?
The carotid arteries, located on each side of the neck, supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain.
What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease occurs when plaque buildup (cholesterol, calcium, and other substances) narrows or blocks the arteries. This condition is linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol. Severe narrowing can restrict blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. A stroke may also occur if a piece of plaque or a blood clot travels to the brain’s smaller arteries.
Why Get a Carotid Screening?
A carotid ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive test that detects plaque buildup before symptoms appear. Blockages as severe as 95% can go unnoticed during routine physical exams. Early detection with ultrasound is the most effective way to assess stroke risk and take preventive action.
What is the Abdominal Aorta?
The abdominal aorta is the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the lower body.
What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)?
AAA is a weakening in the aorta’s wall that causes it to bulge or expand, sometimes reaching the size of a baseball without symptoms. If an AAA ruptures, it can lead to severe internal bleeding and sudden death. Each year, approximately 200,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with AAA, and 15,000 die from undetected ruptures.
Why Get an AAA Screening?
A simple, painless ultrasound can detect an aneurysm before it becomes life-threatening. Ultrasound is the most effective and affordable way to identify AAA early, allowing for timely intervention and reducing the risk of rupture.
What is Atrial Fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often rapid heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots in the heart. AFib significantly increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular issues. While not always life-threatening, it requires proper management to prevent complications.
Why Get an AFib Screening?
AFib increases stroke risk by five times. A quick, painless, and FDA-approved 6-lead EKG can detect AFib in under 60 seconds, allowing for early intervention and stroke prevention.
Thyroid Screening
The thyroid regulates metabolism, energy, and hormone balance. Common findings include cysts, nodules, atrophy, or enlargement, which are usually benign but may indicate underlying conditions, including cancer. A painless ultrasound helps detect abnormalities early for further evaluation if needed.
Liver Screening
The liver plays a crucial role in digestion and detoxification. Fatty liver, enlargement, and cysts are common findings. Fatty liver is often linked to poor diet and lifestyle, while cysts may require further testing. Ultrasound helps identify these conditions early for timely intervention.
Gallbladder Screening
The gallbladder stores bile for digestion. Gallstones, sludge, and thickened walls are common findings. While many gallstones cause no symptoms, they can lead to pain or blockages. Gallbladder sludge may contribute to gallstones or pancreatitis. Ultrasound helps detect issues before complications arise.
Kidney Screening
The kidneys filter waste and regulate fluids. Common findings include stones, cysts, masses, and atrophy. While kidney stones can pass naturally, larger ones may require treatment. Cysts are usually benign but may need monitoring. Masses require further evaluation to rule out malignancy. Ultrasound helps detect these conditions early.
Please reach us at admin@vidamedhw.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Anyone looking to take a proactive approach to their health. According to the National Stroke Association, stroke risk doubles every decade after age 55. However, if you have a family history of stroke or heart disease, or risk factors like obesity, high cholesterol, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle, early screening—even in your 40s—can be a crucial step in prevention.
Most screenings take about 10 minutes. If you’re undergoing multiple screenings, we recommend setting aside a little over an hour for a complete assessment.
If a life-threatening condition is detected, you will be notified immediately so you can seek medical attention. Otherwise, your screening results will be reviewed by a certified physician, and you will receive them within 3 to 4 weeks.
Yes, your doctor can order these screenings, but insurance typically won’t cover them unless symptoms are already present. VidaMed offers an affordable alternative, even without insurance, allowing you to schedule screenings at your convenience. Our goal is early detection—identifying potential health issues before they become serious.
Medicare typically does not cover these screenings, and private insurance coverage varies by policy. We provide a detailed statement for you to submit to your insurance, and we recommend including a copy of your results when filing your claim.
Take control of your health today! Call us at (832) 215-4511 to find out when we’ll be in your area or to schedule your appointment.
Smoking, excess weight, and heavy alcohol consumption significantly increase your risk of stroke. Protect your health by quitting smoking, staying active, making mindful food choices, and moderating alcohol intake. Small, consistent changes can have a big impact on prevention.
Untreated high blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke. Make it a habit to have your blood pressure checked annually—whether through your doctor, at health fairs, or using automated machines at pharmacies and supermarkets. Staying on top of your numbers can help prevent serious health issues.
Smoking doubles your stroke risk by damaging blood vessels, accelerating artery blockage, raising blood pressure, and forcing your heart to work harder. Quitting today can start lowering your stroke risk immediately, improving your overall health in the process.
Excessive alcohol use is linked to an increased stroke risk. Most doctors recommend either avoiding alcohol or drinking in moderation—no more than two drinks a day. Be mindful that alcohol can also interact negatively with medications you may be taking.
Cholesterol, a fatty substance in your blood, can build up from both your body and your diet. High cholesterol can block arteries, increasing your stroke risk. If your total cholesterol level exceeds 200, it’s important to consult with your doctor for guidance and management.
Diabetes often goes hand-in-hand with other stroke risk factors. Work with your doctor to create a nutrition plan, make lifestyle changes, and take medications to keep your diabetes under control. Proper management can significantly lower your stroke risk.
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