Radiology blog Archives - Radiology of Indiana

Recognizing the Value of Radiologists

Radiologists are some of the most crucial professionals in the medical field but often go unrecognized for their amazing work. Our latest blog delves into what radiologists do, how they’re making a difference in people’s lives, and recognizing the value of radiologists.

The Role of a Radiologist

Radiologists celebrate the complexity of the human body and work to improve lives through the use of imaging technology. As medical experts, radiologists are critical in interpreting images captured by radiologic imaging for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Primarily used when treating disease and issues in varied areas such as cancer, vascular diseases, men’s health, and women’s health. Through detailed analysis of X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, and MRI scans, they can identify injuries and illnesses that could otherwise go undetected. Their skillful work has saved countless lives over the years and will continue to do so in the future.

The Relationship Between Radiologist and Patient

A radiologist plays a key in difficult diagnoses and image-guided treatments of serious medical conditions. Thus, the relationship between radiologists and their patients is unique and one to acknowledge. Working together with other healthcare professionals, they consult patients or their caregivers about the appropriate tests to perform and how to prepare for them.

Additionally, they analyze the images taken and diagnose and explain the results and discuss possible treatments with them. From detecting tumors to uncovering various conditions, they use their expertise and technology to help in providing a diagnosis. They can also provide peace of mind for families who are seeking answers about the health of their loved ones. Through their expertise, radiologists truly make a difference and help make healthcare diagnoses possible.

This February, show your body some love. Learn more about all our services as well as explore career opportunities at Radiology of Indiana! Visit our website or contact us at (317) 779-2150 today.

Resources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/24184-radiologist

https://www.acr.org/Practice-Management-Quality-Informatics/Practice-Toolkit/Patient-Resources/About-Radiology#:~:text=Radiologists%20are%20medical%20doctors%20that,tomography%20(PET)%20and%20ultrasound.

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/the-radiologist

8 Possible Signs you May have Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that form in the uterus. However, detection can oftentimes be rather tricky as symptoms are not obvious, if even present at all. Though some women may not show any symptoms, it’s vital to be aware of certain indicators. Read our blog for our top 8 possible signs you may have fibroids!

As a woman, you may develop fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, which can vary in size from tiny seedlings to large masses. They can occur singly or in groups, and they can grow inside the uterine cavity or outside. Typically developing during the childbearing years but can ultimately occur at any age. While fibroids aren’t cancerous, they can still be dangerous and cause some not-always-obvious symptoms.

The 8 common risk factors of fibroids include:

1) Abdominal pain and cramping

Uterine fibroids are a common cause of abdominal pain and cramping in women. While they don’t typically cause notable symptoms, they can lead to pain and cramping, particularly if they are large or located near the intestinal tract. If you have large fibroids, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove them.

2) Back and leg pain

Back and leg pain is a common complaint among women, especially those of childbearing age. Typically, the pain is attributed to the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle. However, in some cases, fibroids can cause symptoms like back pain or leg pain. This is because they can put pressure on the nerves in the pelvis, which can cause pain to radiate down the legs.

3) Constipation

One less well-known symptom of fibroids is constipation. This is because they press on the bowel, making it difficult for waste to pass through. In some cases, fibroids can also block the fallopian tubes or obstruct the cervix, causing even more problems with bowel movements. However, the implementation of dietary changes, as well as stool softeners or laxatives, could be of help.

4) Difficulty conceiving

Fibroids can block the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. They can also interfere with implantation or even prevent the embryo from developing properly. While fibroids are not always responsible for difficulty conceiving, they are one potential cause that should be considered by couples who are struggling to conceive.

5) Feeling bloating or fullness of the abdomen

Fibroids can have several physical manifestations, including feeling full or bloated. This is because they can grow to be quite large and in some cases, press on the stomach and intestines. This pressure may result in swelling and a sensation of being satiated, even with little food intake.

6) Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

Why do fibroids cause heavy bleeding? There are a few reasons. First, fibroids can block the cervix, making it difficult for blood to flow out of the uterus. Second, they can distort the uterine lining, preventing it from shedding properly. And finally, fibroids can increase the production of certain hormones, leading to heavier bleeding and even bleeding between periods.

7) Painful intercourse

Fibroids press on the nerves and blood vessels around the uterus, causing pain and other problems. In addition, fibroids can also cause the uterus to contract erratically, which can be painful for both partners during intercourse. Their location can play a role in discomfort as well.

8)Urinary frequency or urgency

In some cases, fibroids can cause urinary problems. As they can press on the bladder, causing urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence. If you are experiencing urinary problems or any of the symptoms above, it’s important to talk to your doctor to rule out any other potential causes and determine the best course of treatment.

At Radiology of Indiana, we strive to provide top-notch treatment options. We offer fast, non-surgical care to remove fibroids. To learn more, call (317) 621-5555 or visit our website to schedule a consultation today!

Resources:

https://www.radiologyofindiana.com/7-common-symptoms-of-fibroids/

https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/uterine-fibroids

Treating Lower Back Pain with Interventional Radiology

Lower back pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States. It’s estimated that 8 out of 10 people will experience some form of back pain in their lifetime. With so many varied sources of pain, it can be difficult to find relief, but not impossible. Have you considered treating lower back pain with interventional radiology? In this blog, we discuss why back pain is so common and how radiology now plays a role in new treatment options like kyphoplasty.

Lower Back Pain – An Overview

Essentially, the lower back (or lumbar spine) supports most of our body weight and allows us to twist and bend. When muscles and ligaments in this area become strained or injured, it’s likely to feel pain in this area. Lower back pain is often caused by poor posture, excessive sitting, lifting heavy objects improperly, or injury to the muscles and ligaments in the area. However, other causes can result in lower back pain such as spinal misalignment, osteoarthritis, kidney infections, and pregnancy. So next time you experience pain in your lumbar region, we advise you to speak to a doctor or healthcare provider.

Don’t Let Lower Back Pain Hold You Back

The road to relief begins with finding the right medical treatment. Fortunately, when it comes to lower back pain, there are plenty of treatment options available. Some individuals may find relief in over-the-counter or prescription medication for pain management. Whereas others may benefit from treatments such as physical therapy and even the use of interventional radiology. It’s important to note that everyone is different and might require various treatments based on their unique needs.

Interventional Radiology: Can Kyphoplasty Help?

Have you ever tried to stand up straight, only to have a stabbing pain shoot through your lower back? If so, kyphoplasty may be the solution for you. During this minimally invasive procedure, a small incision is made in the back and a balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra. The balloon is then inflated, restoring height to the vertebra and alleviating pressure on nerves and other delicate structures. A special cement is then injected to help stabilize the bone and provide further pain relief. The entire process usually takes less than an hour, with most patients able to resume their normal activities within one or two days. Don’t overlook the potential of treating lower back pain with interventional radiology can offer!

Radiology of Indiana provides various interventional radiological treatments to help treat lower back pain including kyphoplasty! Visit our website or contact us at (317) 621 – 5555 to get started today.

Resources:

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/low-back-pain-fact-sheet

https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/early-treatments-lower-back-pain

https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007511.htm

The Power of Diagnostic Imaging for Prostate Disease

As men get older, their chances of developing an enlarged prostate increase. More than half of men over 60 have an enlarged prostate, which grows to 80% by age 80. An enlarged prostate is a common symptom shared by three primary prostate diseases. Let’s explore these prostate diseases and how Radiology of Indiana is equipped to help with the diagnostic part of testing and diagnosis.

Types of Prostate Disease

Any man can develop a prostate problem. Here are the main three types of prostate diseases:

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is when the prostate grows larger for reasons not related to cancer. It affects approximately 50% of all men before the age of 50 and more than 75% percent of men over 60.
1. Symptoms include:
  1. Weak urinary stream
  2. A sense of not being able to empty the bladder completely

Difficulty starting urination

Urinating more often or a sense of having to go right away
Having to get up often at night to urinate
Stopping and starting of the urine stream.

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate that a bacterial infection may cause. This disease may affect all ages of men and can occur in any prostate, whether enlarged or not. Symptoms of prostatitis are like those caused by an enlarged prostate and may include:
1. Urge frequency
2. Difficulty in emptying the bladder
3. Chills
4. Fever
5. Pain or burning during urination
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death due to cancer among men. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and are confined to the prostate gland. However, some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or no treatment. Other types are aggressive and can spread quickly. Prostate cancer symptoms include:
1. Difficulty with beginning urination
2. Frequent need to urinate, particularly at night
3. Inability to urinate
4. Weak or sporadic urine flow
5. Painful or a burning sensation during urination
6. Painful ejaculation
7. Blood in the urine or semen
8. Pain in the back, hips, or located in the extremities

Interventional and Traditional Imaging Capabilities

Radiology of Indiana has interventional and traditional imaging capabilities to meet your needs to assist in the evaluation and diagnosis of prostate diseases, including:

Nuclear Medicine– A nuclear medicine procedure is a medical specialty that uses radioactive tracers (radiopharmaceuticals) to assess bodily functions and diagnose and treat disease.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)– An MRI scan can produce detailed images of the organs and tissues in the body.

Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE)– PAE is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The prostate arteries are embolized by tiny microspheres that block some blood flow to the prostate, shrinking the tissue and relieving symptoms.

Dedication, Integrity, and Excellence

When you have physicians on staff with radiology experience dating back to 1960, adapting to the ever-changing healthcare environment becomes second nature. At Radiology of Indiana, our track record of exceptional services is what solidifies and strengthens our relationships with the hospitals, imaging centers, referring physicians, and patients who put their trust in us.

Let’s talk about how Radiology of Indiana can meet your needs too. Contact us today!

Sources:

https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/prostate-diseases/

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/prostate-problems

https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/benignprostate

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9100-benign-prostatic-enlargement-bph

https://med.virginia.edu/urology/for-patients-and-visitors/prostate-disease/

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