Patient Education

Doctor-Medic Qies Abu Nahleh would like to be your partner in health care. Feel free to ask your questions and share your concerns with us. We will work with you to develop a wellness program for the care and treatment you need.

We welcome you to our practice and look forward to caring for you.

Doctor-Medic Qies Abu Nahleh provides a full range of medical services including the following:

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

An aneurysm is a localized, balloon-like expansion in a blood vessel caused by weak vessel walls. The aorta is the artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the legs. When a bulge occurs in the abdominal section of the aorta, between the diaphragm and the legs, it is called an "abdominal aortic aneurysm." Most aortic aneurysms occur in the abdomen, and most abdominal aortic aneurysms occur beneath the kidneys, and may continue into the iliac (leg) arteries. ...

Aneurysm

An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery, an inflated balloon of blood. Aneurysms can occur in many parts of the body. They usually develop where pressure is strongest, that is, in areas where blood vessels divide and branch off. An aneurysm is extremely dangerous since it may result in rupture and subsequent hemorrhage or in the development of a serious clot, leading to a stroke or heart attack. ...

Aortic Dissection

An aortic dissection occurs when the inner wall of the aorta tears, creating two channels: one in which blood continues to flow and another in which its flow is stopped. The aorta is the major artery that brings blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The danger of the dissection is that the dysfunctional channel may enlarge, creating pressure on the functional channel and reducing blood flow, possibly causing a ballooning of the large blood vessel. Such an abnormal ballooning is known as an aneurysm. If an aneurysm ruptures, the resulting hemorrhage is life-threatening. ...

Arterial Doppler

An arterial doppler is a non-invasive diagnostic test performed to evaluate blood flow in different areas of the arms and legs. Doppler technology uses sound waves to identify differences in blood pressure in various areas and to help diagnose narrowing or blockage of major arteries. Symptoms which may alert patients and doctors to possible trouble may include: ...

Takayasu's Arteritis

Takayasu's arteritis is a rare form of vasculitis, a series of conditions linked to inflamed blood vessels. In this particular form, the inflammation causes damage to the aorta, the artery that brings blood from the heart to the rest of the body, and the arteries leading to the head and kidneys. This disorder can lead to stenosis (abnormally narrowed or blocked arteries) or to aneurysm (abnormally distended arteries). Takayasu's arteritis can result in arm or chest pain and high blood pressure and carries the risk of causing heart failure or stroke. Takayasu's arteritis primarily affects females under the age of 40. ...

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a condition that involves a gradual buildup of fats and cholesterol in the arteries. This is caused by fatty materials that collect along the artery walls and harden into a substance called plaque. This syndrome may affect any arterial blood vessel in the body, but is most commonly associated with the coronary arteries. As the plaque builds upon itself, it slowly narrows the diameter of the artery, increasing blood pressure and contributing to other cardiovascular disorders. Atherosclerosis is a type of arteriosclerosis although the two terms are sometimes used interchangeably. ...

Carotid Artery Ultrasound

A carotid artery ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images of the neck's internal carotid arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. A carotid artery ultrasound is used to evaluate a patient's risk of stroke or other cardiovascular complications by checking for artery-narrowing plaque buildup. ...

Carotid Endarterectomy

Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove plaque buildup inside the carotid artery so that normal blood flow may be restored. This procedure is usually recommended for patients who have suffered from a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke, and whose carotid arteries are at least 70 percent blocked. ...

Carotid Angioplasty with Stent Placement

Carotid angioplasty and stent placement is a minimally invasive procedure performed to open blocked arteries and improve blood flow. During the procedure, the surgeon will permanently place a stent to keep the artery open, preventing or treating a stroke. The carotid arteries are located on each side of the neck and are the arteries responsible for blood flow to the brain. ...

Behcet's Syndrome

Behcet's syndrome, also referred to as Behcet's disease or Silk Road disease, is a rare condition involving inflammation in certain blood vessels throughout the body. It can result in a wide range of symptoms. This condition is more common in the Middle East and Asia than in other parts of the world. The long-term effects of Behcet's syndrome are not precisely known, although symptoms are believed to become less severe after about 20 years. ...

Catheter Angiography

Catheter angiography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure to evaluate and treat conditions within the blood vessels. It is performed by inserting a catheter into a targeted artery or vein and delivering contrast dye to provide clear imaging results with the use of a fluoroscope. Angiogram pictures can be viewed as X-ray films or stored as digital images in a computer. ...

Churg-Strauss Syndrome

Also known as allergic angiitis or allergic granulomatosis, Churg-Strauss syndrome is a condition in which the blood vessels become inflamed and nodular lesions develop. This condition restricts blood flow throughout the body, potentially causing damage to blood-starved organs. Churg-Strauss syndrome is a rare condition that is not inherited nor transmissible. Since Churg-Strauss syndrome has many different symptoms, it is often difficult to diagnose. ...

Claudication

Claudication is pain in the legs caused by too little blood flow. It is generally associated with conditions such as peripheral artery disease or arteriosclerosis. While it primarily occurs in the legs, claudication may also affect the arms. If left untreated, claudication may have serious medical consequences. ...

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot, also known as a thrombus, forms in a vein deep within the body. Such clots most frequently form in the legs, but may occur in other parts of the body. Blood clots can be caused by anything that prevents the blood from circulating normally or clotting properly. Deep vein thrombosis may be caused by extended periods of inactivity; in some cases it may be the result of staying in bed during a long hospital stay or sitting for a long-period of time on an airplane flight. An injury to a vein or certain medical conditions may also cause a blood clot to form. DVT is a serious condition that requires medical treatment, as a blood clot may travel to the blood vessels of the lungs, heart or brain, causing serious complications which can be fatal. ...

Duplex Ultrasound

The duplex ultrasound is a diagnostic test administered to assess blood circulation. It combines the techniques of traditional ultrasound with those of Doppler ultrasound. Traditional ultrasound uses sound waves to create black-and-white images of the veins and arteries. Doppler technology, on the other hand, uses sound waves to track circulating blood, generating color images of blood as it flows through the body. Using this combination of techniques, duplex ultrasound helps to distinguish several important characteristics of the blood vessels, including speed and direction of blood flow and diameter of the vessels themselves. Duplex ultrasound can also detect the presence and extent of any obstruction in the blood vessels, such as cholesterol deposits or blood clots. ...

Edema

Edema (water retention) is swelling caused by an excessive accumulation of fluid in the body. It typically affects the hands, feet, arms, ankles and legs, but can develop in any part of the body. The lower legs are particularly susceptible to edema due to the force of gravity.

Normally, the kidneys filter the blood and help to maintain a proper metabolic balance. However, under certain conditions, too much fluid is retained and swelling results. Mild edema may be inconsequential but, because fluid buildup can result from a serious medical condition and have grave consequences if left untreated, a physician should be consulted when symptoms are severe or prolonged. ...

Endovenous Laser Therapy

Endovenous Laser Therapy, known as EVLT, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat unsightly varicose veins. It is an alternative to the painful, lengthy ligation and stripping procedure. EVLT is fast, safe, and effective and provides cosmetic benefits which improve the patient's quality of life. This simple procedure is performed in the doctor's office and takes less than an hour. ...

Epifacial® Treatments

The Epifacial® technique uses Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to rejuvenate the skin and reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles, large pores, acne scarring, facial veins, sun spots and rosacea. Epifacial treatments stimulate tissue beneath the skin surface, increasing fibroblast and collagen production for a fuller, younger appearance. The procedure is quick and involves little to no downtime, earning it the nickname "lunchtime peel." Usually three to four treatments spaced three weeks apart are required for full effects. A consultation will determine whether your skin type and condition are treatable with IPL technology. ...

Pelvic Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen blood vessels which do not function efficiently. While they most frequently appear on the legs, they may also develop in the pelvic region, in the lower abdomen or around the genitals, thighs or buttocks. Patients with pelvic varicose veins, or pelvic congestion syndrome, may be asymptomatic. They may also experience troubling symptoms, primarily pain in the region. Women suffer more frequently with pelvic varicose veins, but men are also susceptible to the problem. Pelvic varicose veins may be invisible, particularly when the patient is lying down. ...

Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease, also known as PAD, is a common vascular condition involving a buildup of plaque within the peripheral arteries of the limbs, usually the legs and feet. Plaque is an accumulation of fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances in the blood. The buildup of plaque can severely narrow or block the arteries and limit the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the body. PAD may be a symptom of atherosclerosis, a specific form of arteriosclerosis, which leads to a more widespread occurrence of plaque buildup in arteries. ...

Phlebitis and Thrombophlebitis

Phlebitis is the inflammation of a vein that occurs in either the superficial (surface) veins closer to the skin, or in deep veins located within muscles. Phlebitis commonly occurs in the veins of the leg, but in rare occasions it may affect the veins of the arms or the neck. Thrombophlebitis occurs when the inflammation of the vein is caused by a blood clot. Phlebitis is often treatable and is usually not a serious condition, however in rare cases, a blood clot may travel to the blood vessels of the lungs, heart or brain, causing serious complications which can be fatal. ...

Renal Artery Stenosis

Renal artery stenosis (RAS) is the narrowing of one or both of the renal arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood to the kidneys from the aorta. RAS often causes high blood pressure and reduced kidney function, but many times it has no symptoms until it becomes severe. Most cases of RAS are caused by a condition called "atherosclerosis," the clogging, narrowing and hardening of the renal arteries. RAS develops when plaque builds up on the inner wall of the renal arteries, causing them to harden and narrow. RAS can also be caused by fibromuscular dysplasia, an abnormal growth of tissue within the wall of the artery, which also causes the blood vessels to narrow. ...

Renal Artery Aneurysm

A renal artery aneurysm is a bulge or "balloon" that forms in the wall of an artery that travels to a kidney. In most cases, there are no symptoms associated with renal artery aneurysms, and they are often discovered accidentally during examinations for other medical conditions. Renal artery aneurysms may be caused by congenital weakness in the walls of the arteries; certain diseases; infection; or trauma that has damaged the vascular walls. Most renal artery aneurysms are small, and do not require medical treatment. However, larger aneurysms that are in danger of rupturing may require surgery. ...

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins, most commonly found on the legs, by collapsing them through the use of a solvent. Sclerotherapy has been used on patients since the 1930s with great success, producing increasingly effective medical, as well as cosmetic, results. ...

Spider Veins

Spider veins (telangiectasias) are small, thin blood vessels visible beneath the skin. They usually develop on the face or legs, and may look like a series of thin tree branches or strands of a spider web. Although most spider veins are only a cosmetic issue, for some people they can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling and leg-cramping. ...

Temporal Arteritis

Temporal arteritis is a condition in which the blood vessels supplying the area of the head are inflamed, swollen and tender. Most frequently, temporal arteritis involves the large or medium arteries branching off from the carotid artery in the neck to supply the temporal area. If such an inflammation occurs in the arteries in the neck, upper body and arms it is called giant cell arteritis. ...

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

An aneurysm is a bulge in an artery, caused by a weakening of the blood vessel wall. A thoracic aortic aneurysm forms in the chest, within the body's largest artery, known as the aorta, typically caused by atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which a gradual buildup of fats and cholesterol along the artery walls hardens into a substance called plaque. As the amount of plaque increases, it slowly narrows the diameter of the artery, often causing an aneurysm, and contributing to other cardiovascular disorders. ...

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a disorder in which pain results from the compression of nerves or blood vessels within the thoracic outlet, the space just below the neck, between the collarbone and ribs. This condition commonly develops as a result of traumatic or repetitive injury. Symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but frequently present as pain between the muscles of the neck and shoulder or between the first rib and collarbone. In the majority of cases, the condition is neurogenic, not vascular, in origin. ...

Thrombophlebitis

Thrombophlebitis is a swelling of a vein caused by a clot. It usually occurs in the leg, though it may rarely occur in the arm or neck. When the affected vein is near the surface of the skin, the condition is called superficial thrombophlebitis. When it occurs deep within a muscle, it is known as deep vein thrombosis and is much more dangerous. Thrombophlebitis may develop as a result of prolonged inactivity, such as a lengthy period of bed rest or extended travel in a car or plane. The risk for thrombophlebitis is diminished by limiting periods spent sitting or standing in one place. ...

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins, which appear as unsightly bulges, usually on the legs, may be a medical, as well as cosmetic, problem. Varicose veins affect both men and women. According to the The National Institutes of Health, a quarter of patients who suffer from this condition are men. More women seek help for this disorder than men not only because more women suffer from them, but because in our culture women expose their legs more frequently to public view. Regardless of gender, however, varicose veins can be a serious problem requiring medical intervention. ...

Vasculitis

Vasculitis is an inflammation of the blood vessels. This condition occurs when the immune system attacks a blood vessel, causing it to narrow and possibly close off. If this happens, the affected blood vessel stretches and weakens, resulting in a bulge known as an aneurysm. Since vasculitis may disrupt the flow of blood to any part of the body, it can lead to tissue and organ damage and may be life-threatening. ...

Venous Skin Ulcers

Venous skin ulcers develop on the lower leg, most often between the ankle and calf, as a complication of long-term untreated venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is a condition in which blood flow in the veins is impeded by damaged valves. The weakened valves permit a back flow of blood, or venous reflux. ...

Venous Ultrasound

Venous ultrasound is used to diagnose vascular conditions in the legs. This procedure can effectively detect blood clots in the legs that may cause dangerous conditions such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. While many diseased leg veins are visible on the skin in the form of varicose or spider veins, some patients may experience significant venous reflux, or back flow, that can only be detected through ultrasound imaging. A venous ultrasound shows a thorough, detailed image of the veins, along with the direction of blood flow, to help accurately diagnose vascular conditions. ...

Wound Care and Lymphedema Treatment

Lymphedema results from insufficient drainage of lymphatic fluid in an extremity. The resultant pooling of lymphatic fluid causes the extremity to swell, which can lead to infection or ulceration. Lymphedema may be caused by any of several disease processes, or may be a congenital condition. It is also possible for lymphedema and venous disorders to exist in the same patient. When lymphedema is complicated by poor circulation, there is likely to be great difficulty in healing the patient's wounds. ...