Joint ultrasound

An ultrasound examination is a medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the inside of the body. These sound waves are harmless and do not involve radiation, making ultrasound the preferred method of monitoring a developing fetus during pregnancy, unlike X-rays or CT scans. Ultrasound scans are used to produce images of the internal structures of our bodies, organs, organ systems, muscles, tendons, enlarged lymph nodes, or the fetus in the uterine cavity.Reasons for an ultrasound may include: •Pain, suspicion of neoplasms, suspicion of kidney and gallbladder stones, nausea, bitter taste in the mouth, bloating, yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, prolonged bleeding from the uterus, swallowing disorders, nervous irritability, palpitations, prolonged fever, etc. •Medical monitoring •Participation in various medical procedures •Checking the development of the fetus during pregnancy

An echocardiogram (or "echo") is a type of ultrasound test used to capture moving images of your heart. During the procedure, a small handheld device called a transducer is placed on your chest to emit high-frequency sound waves that produce pictures of your heart’s chambers and valves. This helps your healthcare provider assess the heart’s pumping efficiency and overall function. Echo tests often incorporate Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler techniques to evaluate blood flow across your heart’s valves. These additional features allow for a more detailed assessment of the heart's circulation. Unlike other diagnostic tests such as X-rays or CT scans, echocardiography does not involve radiation, making it a safer option for ongoing monitoring of your heart’s health. Echocardiogram vs. EKG Although both an echocardiogram and an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) are used to monitor heart health, they serve different purposes: • An echo focuses on the structure and function of your heart, providing dynamic images of its movement and condition. • An EKG records the electrical activity of your heart and generates a graph that displays your heart rate and rhythm.

Low hemoglobin refers to a condition where your hemoglobin levels are lower than normal. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body, which is essential for energy and cell function. Low hemoglobin may indicate various conditions, including different types of anemia or even cancer. When hemoglobin levels drop, your body struggles to get enough oxygen, leading to fatigue and weakness. Several factors can cause low hemoglobin levels: • The body may not produce enough red blood cells due to conditions affecting the bone marrow. • Red blood cells may be dying faster than they can be replaced. • Blood loss from injury, illness, or conditions like heavy menstrual periods or internal bleeding (e.g., ulcers) can deplete iron and lower hemoglobin. • Poor iron absorption can hinder red blood cell production. • Lack of essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and B9 can lead to low hemoglobin.

It's normal to lose some hair every day as part of your hair’s natural growth cycle. Typically, the lost hair grows back, and you maintain a full head of hair. However, factors like illness, hormonal changes, stress, aging, and genetics can disrupt this cycle, causing more hair loss without regrowth. Types of hair loss: Some hair loss is temporary, while other types are permanent. Common types include: • Androgenic alopecia: Hereditary baldness, affecting both men and women. • Alopecia areata: An autoimmune condition causing hair loss on the scalp and body. • Telogen effluvium: Rapid shedding of hair, often after physical or emotional stress or hormonal changes. • Anagen effluvium: Rapid hair loss due to medical treatments like chemotherapy. Common causes of hair loss: Hair loss can be triggered by several factors: • Genetics (hereditary hair loss). • Scalp fungal infections. • Tight hairstyles (like braids, extensions, or tight ponytails). • Damaging haircare practices (perms, bleach). • Hormonal changes. • Medical treatments (chemotherapy, certain medications). • Nutritional deficiencies (lack of iron or protein). • Stressful events. • Thyroid disease. Diagnosing hair loss: Seeing a doctor on time is crucial for preventing worse health outcomes. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage conditions before they escalate into more severe problems. Don't wait for things to worsen—consult a healthcare professional as soon as you notice something unusual. To diagnose hair loss, your healthcare provider may: • Ask about your family history of hair loss. • Review your medical history. • Order blood tests for thyroid function and iron levels. • Examine your scalp for infections. • Perform a scalp biopsy if needed to check for skin disease.