Dr. Gunyan LLC

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• Gut Health Obesity Rheumatoid Arthritis Crohn’s Disease Irritable Bowel Syndrome Diabetes Celiac Dis

  Obesity Rheumatoid Arthritis Crohn’s Disease Irritable Bowel Syndrome Diabetes Celiac Disease Gallstones Colon Polyps Diverticulitis Abdominal Pain Inflammatory Bowel Disease Barrett’s Esophagus Nutrition Escherichia coli (E. coli) Food Allergies Food Intolerance Heartburn Bloating

  Link: Gut Health Obesity Rheumatoid Arthritis Crohn’s Disease Irritable Bowel Syndrome Diabetes Celiac Dis

• Hormones

  Male Infertility Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Acne Hyperthyroidism Hypothyroidism Low Testosterone Addison’s Disease Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Female Infertility Hashimoto’s Disease Hair Loss in Women Endocrinology Hormone Imbalance Menopause

  Link: Hormones

• Cardiology

  Osteoporosis Metabolic Syndrome High Cholesterol Edema High Blood Pressure Stroke Women and Heart Disease Cardiology Lipids Chest Pain

  Link: Cardiology

• Dementia

  Dementia is not a single disorder, but rather a combination of age-related symptoms involving a loss of mental skills and deteriorating brain function. Dementia literally translates to "deprived of mind," and may be the result of several different underlying conditions, some of which are treatable and some of which are not. Patients with dementia gradually lose memory, communication skills, the ability to reason, and the facility to complete the tasks of everyday living. CAUSES OF DEMENTIA The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, a condition in which nerve cells lose the ability to communicate with one another, and slowly die. Other causes of dementia include: Parkinson's disease or Huntington's disease Vascular dementia or stroke Chronic abuse of alcohol or drugs Nutritional deficiencies Infections (such as AIDS or Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease) Developmental abnormalities Severe depression Hormonal imbalance Traumatic or chronic brain injury Brain tumor Severe kidney, liver or lung disease SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA The symptoms of dementia develop gradually and may not be noticed until they worsen. Symptoms may include: Memory loss Difficulty speaking Difficulty understanding words Changes in personality, mood or behavior Difficulty planning or performing sequential tasks Getting lost in familiar places Neglecting personal safety and hygiene TYPES OF DEMENTIA There are two basic types of dementia: cortical and subcortical, characterized by the part of the brain affected. In cortical dementia, the variety that includes Alzheimer's and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the cerebral cortex is affected. Patients with these disorders experience memory loss and aphasia, the inability to use language effectively. In subcortical dementia, the area beneath the cerebral cortex is affected. Patients with this type of dementia may have intact memory and language skills, but have trouble coming up with ideas or thinking quickly. TREATMENT OF DEMENTIA The success of dementia treatment depends a great deal on the root causes of the problem. Certain forms of dementia can be cured if caught before permanent brain damage has occurred. Curable Dementia When dementia results from nutritional lacks, such a vitamin deficiency, for example, vitamin supplements can bring the patient back to normal functioning. This is also true of the dementia resulting from hypothyroidism. Once the necessary thyroid hormone is administered, the patient's brain function may improve greatly, assuming the condition has been diagnosed at an early stage. In situations in which the dementia results from a brain tumor or hydrocephalus, surgical intervention can make a tremendous difference. There is also a condition known as pseudodementia, in which the symptoms of dementia result from severe depression. Once diagnosed, this disorder usually responds well to antidepressants. Incurable Dementia For patients with Alzheimer's disease and other organic forms of dementia, the prognosis is much worse. Although much research is being conducted to find successful treatments for the disease, there is no medication at present that will cure such dementia or reverse its symptoms. Nonetheless, there are psychotropic medications available to help manage symptoms such as agitation and depression. Medications called cholinesterase inhibitors, such as Aricept® (donepezil HCI), have been demonstrated to have some positive effect on brain activity. Cognitive behavioral therapy, eating a proper diet, engaging in physical exercise and having social contact have also been found to improve daily functioning or slow the progression of the disease.

  Link: Dementia

• Liver Disease

  The liver is an essential organ that has many functions. The liver serves as a filter for the body by removing toxins and impurities from the blood. The liver also performs metabolically by converting food to energy. The liver also stores the fat soluble vitamins D and E. When diseased or damaged, the ability to perform these functions can lead to serious problems. TYPES OF LIVER DISEASE There are more than 100 types of liver diseases. Some of the most common diseases include the following: Inflammation Fibrosis Cirrhosis Liver failure These diseases often develop as a result of infection, poor blood supply, an obstruction in the bile flow or from metabolic liver disease. SYMPTOMS OF LIVER DISEASE Liver disease, in its earliest stages, may have little or no symptoms and will often be diagnosed as the flu. As the disease develops typical symptoms develop. The symptoms of liver disease can vary, but most often include the following: Jaundice Nausea Vomiting Loss of appetite Bloated abdomen Brown urine Itching Fatigue Bloody vomit Black stools A series of tests will be conducted, including biopsy, blood tests and a comprehensive metabolic panel in order to accurately diagnosis the liver condition. TREATMENT OF LIVER DISEASE Some liver diseases can be effectively treated with medication, and some serious cases may require surgery to fully treat the disease.

  Link: Liver Disease

• Obesity

  Obesity is a chronic condition defined by an excess of body fat. Body fat has several important functions in the body, such as storing energy and providing insulation. Excess body fat, however, may interfere with an individual's health and well-being, particularly if a patient becomes morbidly obese. Not only does obesity interfere with everyday activities, it also increases the risk of developing serious medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Obesity is a serious health issue presently reaching epidemic proportions in society. It results in medical complications and early morbidity for a great many people. Other health conditions caused or exacerbated by obesity may include heart disease, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and asthma. The good news is that obesity is a treatable ailment and that modern medicine provides more remedies for the condition than previously existed. CAUSES OF OBESITY The balance between calorie intake and energy expenditure determines a person's weight. If a greater number of calories is consumed than expended through exercise and daily activities, a person will gain weight since their body stores excess calories. Obesity is, however, a complex problem. Research has shown that obesity does not simply result from lack of self-control. Causes of obesity are varied and may include hereditary, social, psychological and environmental factors as well as metabolic ones. Factors that may contribute to obesity include: Genetics Diet Inactivity Pregnancy Psychological stress Medications Certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome may contribute to obesity. DIAGNOSIS OF OBESITY Obesity is diagnosed not only by the number of excess pounds an individual carries, but by the individual's body mass index, or BMI. The BMI is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared. Designations of normal and abnormal weight are as follows: Underweight: BMI below 18.5. Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9 Overweight: BMI 25 to 29 Obese: BMI 30 to 39 Morbidly obese: BMI 40 or higher Since BMI doesn't directly measure body fat, it is possible for some people, such as extremely muscular individuals or geriatric patients, to be inaccurately categorized using this system. OBESITY TREATMENT Obesity is a serious problem. Overcoming obesity requires a commitment to lifestyle changes. There are several methods of treatment for obesity. Proper Diet A safe and effective long-term weight-loss diet must contain balanced, nutritious foods to avoid vitamin deficiencies and malnutrition. A healthy diet should: Be high in whole grains, fiber, fruits and vegetables Contain lean meat, fish or vegetable protein Be low in sweets, fats, and fried foods Include whole grains and high fiber Eliminate consumption of fast food Adopting good eating habits is essential in achieving a healthy weight. Physical Activity Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy life. Physical activity and exercise help to burn calories. The number of calories burned depends on the type, duration, and intensity of the activity. Treating obesity with exercise is most effective when combined with a healthy diet since exercise alone will have a limited effect on weight loss. Recommendations for healthy exercise habits include getting 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 to 7 days a week. Prescription Weight-loss Medication Weight loss is best achieved through a healthy diet and regular exercise. For some individuals, weight-loss medications may be of help. Such medications are not usually prescribed unless diet and exercise have already been tried and failed. Even with prescribed medications, lifestyle changes must be implemented for obesity to be treated successfully. Counseling or Psychotherapy In many cases, talking with a counselor is helpful to a patient suffering from obesity, almost always in combination with other methods of weight loss. Most people who are obese have psychological issues around food and may have a family history which has predisposed them to eating when they are under stress. While diet and exercise must always be included in weight loss treatment, talking to a trained professional can also be of help. Bariatric Surgery When other methods of weight loss are unsuccessful, particularly when an individual suffers from obesity-related medical conditions, bariatric surgery may be considered. Under the proper conditions, bariatric surgery may be a lifesaving procedure, though the patient will still be required to make permanent lifestyle changes. Before and after weight loss surgery, counseling is necessary to assist the patient in achieving and maintaining lasting positive results.

  Link: Obesity

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

  Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes symptoms of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It may also affect other organs of the body including the heart, lungs and blood vessels. Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women than men and it usually develops in individuals over the age of 40. Treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing joint damage, and commonly includes medication to suppress the immune system and reduce pain and inflammation. SYMPTOMS OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by pain and swelling in the joints. It commonly affects the wrists and fingers but may also affect the elbows, hips, knees and other joints of the body. Additional symptoms may include: Tender joints Redness and warmth in the joints Rheumatoid nodules, or firm bumps of tissue under the skin Morning stiffness Symmetrical pattern of affected joints Fatigue Complications that may occur as a result of rheumatoid arthritis may include hardened or blocked arteries that may lead to heart problems or an inflammation of lung tissue that may lead to breathing problems. CAUSES OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which is caused by the body attacking its own healthy tissue. With rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system is attacking the lining or membrane of the joints. The exact cause is unknown, however individuals who have a relative with rheumatoid arthritis may be at a greater risk for developing the disease. DIAGNOSIS OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS Rheumatoid arthritis may be difficult to diagnose initially because its symptoms often mimic those of other conditions. Rheumatoid arthritis may eventually be diagnosed after a review of all symptoms and a physical examination. Blood tests may be performed to test for the presence of certain antibodies and X-rays may help to assess the level of joint damage. TREATMENT OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS There is no cure currently available for rheumatoid arthritis but medication can be effective in controlling pain, minimizing inflammation and slowing the progression of joint damage. Common medications may include: Corticosteroids Anti-inflammatory medication Immunosuppressants Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs Exercise and physical therapy may also be effective at keeping joints flexible. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair tendons or replace damaged joints.

  Link: Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Crohn’s Disease

  Crohn's disease is a disorder that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The inflammation is usually found in the small intestine (the ileum), but can occur in any area of the GI tract, which stretches from the mouth to the anus. Crohn's is an inflammatory bowel disease, which, like irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis, causes swelling of the intestines. TYPES OF CROHN'S DISEASE There are five types of Crohn's disease, each named for the region of the GI tract they affect. Ileocolitis Ileocolitis is the most common type of Crohn's disease, affecting the small intestine (ileum) and the large intestine (colon). Ileitis Ileitis differs from ileocolitis in that it only affects the small intestine. In addition to the symptoms of ileocolitis, patients may also suffer fistulas (abnormal tunnels) or inflammatory abscesses. Gastroduodenal Crohn's Disease Gastroduodenal Crohn's disease affects the stomach and the duodenum. Patients experience more upper digestive symptoms, including nausea, and sometimes, vomiting. Jejunoileitis Jejunoileitis affects the jejunum, the upper half of the small intestine, resulting in cramping after meals, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain and the development of fistulas. Crohn's (Granulomatous) Colitis Crohn's colitis affects only the colon. Symptoms include skin lesions and joint pain, as well as diarrhea, rectal bleeding, ulcers, anal abscesses and fistulas. CAUSES OF CROHN'S DISEASE The causes of Crohn's disease are not entirely known, but it is believed that people with Crohn's have abnormal immune-system reactions, in which food and bacteria are mistaken for foreign substances. When the immune system tries to attack these substances in the digestive tract, inflammation in the intestines is the result. Crohn's disease may also enter the body as an infection. Risk factors include: Being younger than 30 Being Caucasian or of Eastern European Jewish descent Having a family history of Crohn's Smoking Living in an urban area SYMPTOMS OF CROHN'S DISEASE The main symptoms of Crohn's disease are diarrhea, which often occurs up to 10 or 20 times a day, and abdominal pain and cramping. Inflammation in the intestines causes an excess of water and salt to be secreted. Because the colon cannot properly absorb the excess, it empties often, resulting in frequent diarrhea. Additional symptoms may include: Bloody stool Ulcers Reduced appetite Weight loss Fever and fatigue (in severe cases) Crohn's disease symptoms may be experienced on a recurring basis, and for irregular lengths of time. DIAGNOSIS OF CROHN'S DISEASE If symptoms of Crohn's disease are present, a medical professional should be consulted. After a thorough physical examination, a series of tests may be performed to confirm the disease's presence. In addition to MRI and CT scans, the following tests may be performed. Blood Test A blood test is performed to check for anemia, a condition in which there are not enough blood cells to carry oxygen through the body, and which can cause bleeding in the intestines. The blood test also checks for signs of infection. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, a slender, flexible, lighted tube is used to examine the sigmoid, which is the last section of the colon. Colonoscopy During a colonoscopy, a thin tube with a camera at the top is used to view the entire colon; tissue samples may be taken for a biopsy. Colonoscopy checks for granulomas, clusters of inflammatory cells that, if present, confirm a diagnosis of Crohn's. Barium Enema A contrast dye called barium is inserted into the bowel to create a silhouette of the intestines and to highlight any inflammation, which is then viewed through an X-ray. Colonoscopy is preferred to sigmoidoscopy because it provides a view of the colon in its entirety. Removing tissue to check for cancer is usually only performed on those who have had Crohn's disease for 8 or more years. TREATMENT OF CROHN'S DISEASE Once Crohn's disease is diagnosed, a treatment regimen, which will depend on the type and severity of the symptoms, is prescribed. Crohn's disease cannot be cured, but it can be treated effectively, minimizing the effect on patients' lives. There are a number of effective treatments. Medication Anti-inflammatory drugs are often the first treatment prescribed in order to keep symptoms from developing. Corticosteroids may be prescribed for those with more severe symptoms, or for those who do not respond to milder medications. Immune-system modifiers and antibiotics may also be prescribed. Over-the-counter medications that may be helpful include anti-diarrheas, laxatives, nutritional supplements and pain relievers.

  Link: Crohn’s Disease

• Male Infertility

  Approximately 15 percent of couples trying to conceive a child have infertility issues. In about one-third of these cases, male infertility, which may be due to a number of factors, is the sole cause of the problem. When a couple has trouble becoming pregnant, both partners have to be evaluated to determine where the problem is. In many situations, a combination of factors may be responsible for the difficulty. CAUSES OF MALE INFERTILITY There are many reasons a male may be infertile. Sexual dysfunctions, such as premature or retrograde ejaculation, may be the problem, since both conditions interfere with the normal delivery of sperm. Other causes of male infertility include: Low sperm count or no sperm present in semen (azoospermia) Problems with sperm motility, volume or viscosity Blocked sperm ducts, variocele, undescended testicles Certain chronic illnesses or infections Genetic defects Prior surgery or injury to the groin area Exposure to toxins, radiation, or chemotherapy Lifestyle choices may also result in male infertility. The problem may be caused by excessive use of alcohol, smoking, use of steroids, marijuana or other recreational drugs, or by excessive exposure to heat, such as in saunas or hot tubs. DIAGNOSIS OF MALE INFERTILITY In order for the cause of male infertility to be determined, the patient has to undergo a complete medical examination, including blood tests and urinalysis. In addition, it is necessary for the doctor to take a complete medical history. In most cases, in order for the doctor to make a definitive diagnosis, one or more of the following tests is also necessary: Scrotal or transrectal ultrasound Post-ejaculation urinalysis Testicular biopsy Specialized sperm function tests Testing of hormone levels and genetic testing may also be needed. TREATMENT OF INFERTILITY Depending on the cause of male infertility, there are several treatments available. When the problem is a sexual dysfunction, like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation, psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, or medication may be helpful. At other times, artificial insemination is all that is required to solve the problem. There are, however, situations that are more complex and require one of the following approaches: Surgery to correct a varicocle or obstructed vas deferens Medication to correct impotence Sperm retrieval Hormone treatments Antibiotic administration to treat an infection Assisted reproductive technology (ART) When an infection in the reproductive tract is the cause of male infertility, an antibiotic may be administered. Although the antibiotic usually cures the infection, it does not always restore fertility. ART treatments involve obtaining sperm for fertilization from: Normal ejaculation Surgical extraction A sperm donor The collected sperm may, depending on other factors, be inserted directly into the female's reproductive tract, used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection or used for in vitro fertilization.

  Link: Male Infertility

• Hormone Imbalance

  Hormones are natural chemicals within the cells of the body that travel through the bloodstream to organs and tissues. Hormones are essential for a variety of functions, including regulating a woman's metabolism, growth, immunity function and sexual reproduction. Hormone production tends to decrease naturally over time. As the production of certain hormones decreases, there may be an overproduction of other hormones within the body, which often results in hormonal imbalances that affect the health in different ways. Hormonal imbalance generally occurs as a reaction to elevated levels of the hormone estrogen, and lower levels of the hormone progesterone. Estrogen helps regulate the menstrual cycle; progesterone is essential for healthy pregnancy. The most common hormonal imbalance among women of all ages is progesterone deficiency; common among menopausal women is estrogen deficiency. There are different treatment options available for hormone imbalances. CAUSES OF HORMONE IMBALANCE Most cases of hormone imbalance occur in women older than 35, although an imbalance may develop at other ages. Hormone imbalance may be caused by a number of contributing factors, which include the following: Genetics Allergies Pregnancy Menopause Aging Chronic fatigue syndrome Certain medications Thyroid issues Autoimmune disease Some research indicates that there may be link between certain behaviors and hormone levels and a poor diet and lack of exercise may contribute to a hormonal imbalance. SYMPTOMS OF HORMONE IMBALANCE Although symptoms of hormone imbalance vary depending on what is causing the imbalance, common symptoms usually include the following: Insomnia Anxiety Hot flashes Bouts of sweating Rapid weight gain Weight loss Hair loss Adult acne Women suffering from hormonal imbalances may experience headaches, depression, mood swings, irritability and memory lapses. DIAGNOSIS OF HORMONE IMBALANCE Hormone levels are tested through several different methods, although some cases of hormone imbalance are diagnosed simply by evaluating patients' symptoms. Saliva Testing One test commonly used to diagnose hormonal imbalance is saliva testing, which is a laboratory analysis of a sample of the patient's saliva. It provides information about the levels of hormones circulating through the body, not just those present within specific tissue. Serum Testing Serum (blood) testing involves drawing blood, and using a small portion of the sample to measure hormone levels. This test involves measuring the levels of hormones that can easily enter cells, as well as the levels of hormones that become attached to substances that allow hormones to be carried through the bloodstream. Follicle-Stimulating-Hormone Testing Follicle-stimulating-hormone testing (FSH) is frequently used to determine the hormonal status of women who are experiencing signs or symptoms of menopause. FSH testing measures the level of follicle-stimulating hormone in the blood. When a woman's estrogen levels begin to decrease, the pituitary gland in the brain will cause FSH to be released, stimulating estrogen production by the ovaries. If a woman's levels of FSH are rising, menopause is often the most likely cause. TREATMENT OF HORMONE IMBALANCE Treatment for a hormone imbalance depends on the cause and specific needs of the patient. One treatment is hormone-replacement therapy (HRT), in which medication containing estrogen or progesterone is prescribed to replace the hormones that are deficient within the ovaries. These synthetic forms of hormones are delivered through pills, patches or creams. However, there are risks associated with HRT, including heart disease, stroke and breast cancer. Risks may vary depending on a woman's health history and lifestyle. Before deciding if HRT is appropriate, a woman should discuss its risks and benefits with her doctor. Women suffering from depression or mood changes due to a hormone imbalance may also benefit from taking antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. In addition to medical treatment, some patients are able to alleviate the symptoms of hormone imbalance by maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle.

  Link: Hormone Imbalance

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

  Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a condition that affects a woman's ovaries. The causes of polycystic ovary syndrome are unknown but it is known that between 5 percent to 10 percent of the women in the United States are affected by this condition. It is the leading cause of infertility in women. Polycystic ovary syndrome causes many different symptoms that can include: Irregular menstrual periods No menstrual period Excessive body hair Acne Skin tags Pelvic pain Sleep apnea Enlarged ovaries with many cysts Infertility Obesity Patients experiencing symptoms of PCOS, should see their doctor immediately. To diagnose this condition, the doctor may perform a blood test or ultrasound. TREATMENT OF PCOS There is no cure for PCOS. Treatment focuses on treating the symptoms in order to prevent long-term damage. Since symptoms vary, the approach may be focused on a combination of treatments, such as: Regulating the menstrual cycle Reducing excessive hair growth with medication Using diabetic medications Stimulating ovulation with fertility medications Managing weight gain Surgical intervention If left untreated, PCOS can lead to complications such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome.

  Link: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

• Cardiology

  Osteoporosis Metabolic Syndrome High Cholesterol Edema High Blood Pressure Stroke Women and Heart Disease Cardiology Lipids Chest Pain

  Link: Cardiology

• Cardiology

  Cardiology is the medical specialty that deals with conditions of the heart. Conditions that are treated by a cardiologist include: Congenital heart defects Coronary artery disease Heart failure Cardiovascular disease PREVENTATIVE CARDIOLOGY Preventive cardiology is a medical discipline that revolves around maintaining cardiovascular health and averting the onset or recurrence of disease. This type of care is recommended for patients with a personal or family history of heart disease, very high cholesterol levels, severe hypertension or metabolic syndrome. The goal of preventive cardiology is to lower the patient's risk of developing or worsening a cardiac condition through a combination of education about lifestyle changes and medical management and monitoring. After an examination, testing and assessment, each patient is provided with a personalized treatment plan designed to prevent or rehabilitate cardiac problems. INTERVENTIONAL CARDIOLOGY Interventional cardiology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of certain heart problems through the use of catheters. Cardiac catheterization is a procedure used to place the catheter, which is a long, thin tube, in the heart or a nearby artery. During this procedure, a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the arm, groin or neck area and guided to the heart. When the catheter reaches the heart, it can be used to: Detect any blockages or abnormalities Take a blood or muscle sample Measure blood pressure and oxygen levels Detect and repair congenital heart defects Repair or replace heart valves Perform an angioplasty Perform a balloon valvuloplasty Correct arrhythmia Cardiac catheterization is usually performed in a hospital but does not require the use of anesthesia. It is a safe procedure with little to no pain and a low risk of complications. NUCLEAR CARDIOLOGY Studying tissue function with nuclear medicine can help a physician diagnose many kinds of diseases, tumors, infections and other disorders in the brain, heart, lungs, bone, bowel, kidneys, thyroids and other internal structures. Nuclear cardiology focuses on imaging the heart to locate or diagnose problems with the heart. This is done by administering a contrast dye to the patient, which helps with visibility of specific organs and structures. Scans may be performed in conjunction with other types of imaging, such as CT, MRI or X-ray, or with stress tests to determine the cause of unexplained chest pain. DIAGNOSTIC TESTS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR CONDITIONS Some of the most common diagnostic tests used to diagnose or evaluate many heart conditions include the following: MRI MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a non-invasive, radiation-free scanning technology. It is a test that uses radio waves and magnetic fields to produce clear and detailed three-dimensional images of organs and hard and soft tissues throughout the body. Electrocardiogram An electrocardiogram is a diagnostic test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. Also known as an EKG or ECG, the electrocardiogram translates the information it receives into a pattern of waves for analysis.

  Link: Cardiology

• Women and Heart Disease

  Heart (cardiovascular) disease is the leading cause of death in women older than 40. The death rate from heart disease increases as women age, especially after they reach menopause. It has claimed the lives of more women than men since 1984, and is responsible for the deaths of more women than breast and lung cancers combined. Each year, one of every four women in the United States will die from heart disease, with African-American women having a higher death rate than Caucasian women. TYPES OF HEART DISEASE Heart disease is any disease that affects the heart and blood-vessel system. Types of heart diseases include heart attack; stroke; coronary heart disease; high blood pressure; and angina (chest pain). Symptoms of Heart Attack in Women Although both men and women tend to experience angina when having heart attacks, about one-third of women have no chest pain at all. Because women tend to have blockages in the smaller arteries that supply blood to their heart, they typically have symptoms that include the following: Shortness of breath Irregular heartbeat Nausea or vomiting Sweating Fatigue Dizziness/lightheadedness In addition to the chest, a woman may have angina in her shoulders, back, arms, jaw, throat and neck. Coronary artery disease, which leads to heart attacks, is the leading cause of death for Americans, both female and male. REDUCING THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE IN WOMEN A woman who has a family history of heart disease is at greater risk of getting it herself. However, making the following lifestyle changes can help reduce a woman's risk for developing heart disease: Quitting smoking Eating a heart-healthy diet Exercising regularly Managing weight Avoiding stress Regulating diabetes Monitoring blood pressure Reducing triglyceride levels Reducing/eliminating alcohol consumption Hormone replacement therapy is no longer recommended for postmenopausal women, as it puts women at a greater risk for heart disease.

  Link: Women and Heart Disease