What is a Radiologist?
If you’ve ever needed to get imaging done at a hospital, you’ve interacted with a radiologist. Radiologists are medical doctors that specialize in both diagnosing and treating illnesses using medical imaging. Imaging can include X-rays, MRIs, PET Scans, CTs, ultrasounds and more. Below we dive into what radiologists do, including different radiology specialties and treatment. Schooling To become a radiologist, doctors go through thirteen years of schooling, including four years of medical school, a four year...
Women’s History Month: Women in Medicine
March is Women’s History Month Townsen Memorial is proud to celebrate the contributions of strong women in medicine. To honor Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting some women that have changed the field of medicine through their work and dedication. Elizabeth Blackwell (1821-1910) Elizabeth Blackwell was the first woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S. She has served as a pioneer to many women in the medical field today. Elizabeth faced many obstacles on her path to a medical degree and continued to fight...
Black History Month: How Heart Disease and Stroke Impact African Americans
February is Black History Month. We take this time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and honor the significant role and impact they have made on American society. This year during Black History Month, we want to discuss the health disparities that African Americans face. Heart disease and stroke are two leading causes of death of African Americans. At Townsen Memorial, we can improve the odds of preventing and beating these diseases by helping African Americans understand the risks and taking...
What Are the Types of Imaging Tests?
Have you ever wondered why there are different types of imaging tests? If your doctor has ordered a medical imaging exam for you, you might have questions about the type of scan or test you will be receiving. There are many ways doctors use imaging to diagnose or monitor a medical condition. Different types of imaging are used for different conditions and depends on your symptoms. Imaging scans are safe and carry minimal risks, but at Townsen Memorial we want you to know what to expect so that you feel prepared...
BE FAST to Identify a Stroke and Save a Life
What is a stroke? Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When this happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so the brain cells die. There are 3 types of strokes: Ischemic Stroke: Most strokes are ischemic strokes. They make up about 87% of all strokes each year in America. Ischemic strokes happen when the blood flow through the...
National Diabetes Awareness Month
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. It is important to remain educated, find resources, and make sure all those around us are aware of their risk too. Diabetes is a complex health condition that affects millions of people in America. Without proper management it can lead to serious complications. What is Diabetes? Nearly half of all-American adults have diabetes or prediabetes, yet don’t understand the serious life-long burden of this illness or the 24/7 work it takes to effectively manage. According...
Breast Cancer and Early Detection
As you probably already know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While participating in charity runs and wearing pink are great ways to raise funds and awareness, knowing the early warning signs of breast cancer can help you detect the disease early. Whether it’s yearly screenings or monthly self-checks, familiarizing yourself with the early signs of breast cancer can save your life. Early Symptoms of Breast Cancer Many patients report only noticing one or two symptoms at first. If you notice something is...
Keeping Your Children Safe During Back to School
Keeping Your Children Safe During Back to School Back to school looks different this year for everyone–parents, kids, teachers and school staff alike. Whether you’re homeschooling, virtually learning, or sending your child back to school in-person, one thing that’s likely on your mind is how to make sure they’re safe. While there isn’t one sure-fire solution to protecting your child from COVID-19, there are many things you can do, and that you can teach your son or daughter to do, to help protect them. Physical...