Blog Archive

Have you ever wondered what signs might hint at intramural fibroids within your body? Intramural fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop within the muscular wall of the uterus.  At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, our board-certified interventional radiologists provide comprehensive care for individuals dealing with the frustration of uterine fibroids....

Varicose veins aren't attractive, but these bulging, ropey veins are more than a simple cosmetic problem. These veins affect millions of adults and can cause physical symptoms, including throbbing, aching, and leg heaviness.  They develop when the one-way valves inside your veins stop working. These valves help keep blood flowing...

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only are providers across the country postponing elective procedures, but many are also encouraging people to avoid in-office appointments to reduce their risk of exposure to this highly contagious coronavirus.But what...

Back pain is no fun; if you experience this uncomfortable condition, you should know you’re not alone. More than 80% of American adults experience back pain at least once in their life.  If your back or neck pain is so intense that you can no longer enjoy your favorite activities,...

Varicose veins can be embarrassing and unsightly. But you shouldn’t have to keep covering up your legs! Advances in medical technology mean there are different options for effectively treating varicose veins.  At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, our interventional radiologists, Dr. Andrew Doe and Dr. Sandra Newberry, are experts in...

Have you been experiencing the discomfort and pain of uterine fibroids? These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause symptoms ranging from heavy menstrual bleeding to pelvic pain. For many women, these benign tumors become a chronic concern, affecting their daily lives and overall well-being. If you're exploring uterine fibroid...

If you have benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), more commonly known as an enlarged prostate, and feel like you’re alone, you should know that 50% of all men in America also struggle with an enlarged prostate by the time they reach the age of 60.  This condition affects the small gland...

Over 35 million American women have uterine fibroids, growths of fibrous tissue that develop into benign uterine tumors. Typically found inside your uterine cavity or within the uterine wall, uterine fibroids come in all sizes, from the size of a small seed to larger than a grapefruit. In some cases, however, fibroids can...

If you're dealing with varicose veins, different treatments exist to ease your symptoms and improve the appearance of your skin. But in vein health, each patient is unique, and the most effective therapy varies based on your needs.   Guided by board-certified interventional radiologists, the team at Alate Health in Houston,...

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that can cause symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. The good news is that safe and effective uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) can ease symptoms and restore quality of life. At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, our board-certified interventional radiologists specialize in UFE. This FDA-approved treatment has changed...

If you are struggling with an enlarged prostate, you aren’t alone. Throughout your life, your prostate gland grows, doubling in size at puberty and growing continually through old age. As a result, at least 50% of men deal with the signs of an enlarged prostate by 60, and by 80, that number...

If you’ve been told you have uterine fibroids, you’re in good company. About 70% of women get diagnosed with these benign tumors during their lifetime.  Uterine fibroids are noncancerous, muscular tumors that develop in, on, or below the uterine wall or lining of the uterus. Rarely do they grow outside the womb completely....

Most women experience pelvic pain at one point or another during their lifetimes. For nearly one-third of women worldwide, this pain becomes chronic, lasting six months or more. Chronic pelvic pain can have different causes, including the growth of noncancerous tumors called uterine fibroids. These benign tumors affect up to 70% of women, and although...

Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), more commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate, is a common condition that typically develops as men age. Around 50% of men have BPH by age 60, which rises to 90% by age 80.  If you’re among this large group affected by BPH, chances are you’re...

Not all uterine fibroids cause problematic symptoms and therefore don’t require treatment. But for women with pain and other frustrating symptoms from uterine fibroids, the good news is that effective treatments exist to minimize your discomfort. Treatments for uterine fibroids range from non-invasive to invasive surgeries.  At Alate Health, our...

If you’re worried about uterine fibroids, you’re not alone. Up to 80% of women can develop fibroids by age 50. Whether you have been diagnosed or are concerned you may have them, you may be thinking about the negative effects fibroids can have on your life.  At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, our practice...

Did you know that up to 70% of women develop uterine fibroids? While all uterine fibroids are made of muscle tissues and fibers, there is more than one type.  At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, our board-certified interventional radiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating different uterine fibroids. We create personalized treatment plans based on the type of...

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the muscular tissue of your uterus. While this condition is relatively common, affecting between 20-70% of women, and isn’t cancerous, for some women, fibroids can cause pain and other uncomfortable symptoms, including: Low back or pelvic pain or pressure  Digestive issues (e.g., constipation) Incontinence and frequent...

Your prostate gland grows over your life, starting in puberty when it doubles in size and continuing through old age. That’s why at least 50% of men have signs of an enlarged prostate by age 60, and over 90% struggle with it by age 80. When the prostate grows too large, it...

Did you know the average woman gets 450-500 periods over her lifetime? Having a heavier-than-normal flow once or twice isn’t usually cause for concern.  But if you’re experiencing periods that are heavier, more painful, or lasting longer as time goes on, that’s a lot of time spent worrying about leaks and dealing...

There’s no doubt that as you age, your prostate changes. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men in the US, with most cases diagnosed in men 65 or older.  And the risk of having an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), increases as you get older, with 90% of men having...

Uterine fibroids are benign, muscular tumors that usually grow in the wall of your uterus. While they don’t cause or increase your risk of cancer, that doesn’t mean fibroids are good for your health. Untreated fibroids increase your risk for different health complications.  Fortunately, you can avoid these problems with safe...

Your prostate gland, located around your urethra, makes seminal fluids, plays a role in hormone production, and helps regulate your urine flow. Prostate glands naturally grow throughout your life, which can put pressure on your urethra and cause frustrating symptoms. At Alate Health, our board-certified interventional radiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating problematic...

If you’re worried about uterine fibroids, you’re in good company. Researchers believe up to 80% of all women develop these benign tumors by the time they turn 50. Although fibroids aren’t cancerous, they can cause frustrating symptoms, including: Heavy uterine bleeding with clots Lower back or pelvic pain Terrible menstrual cramping Pain during sex...

Congratulations on considering safe and effective uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) to treat your fibroids. At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, board-certified interventional radiologist Andrew Doe, MD, uses this procedure to reduce symptoms and improve the quality of countless women.  UFE is a minimally invasive procedure. Your provider places a small...

You probably know fibroids can cause pelvic pain and discomfort. But if you’re one of the 35 million American women diagnosed with these benign uterine tumors, you might wonder if they’re what’s causing your digestive troubles. Board-certified interventional radiologist Andrew Doe, MD, and the team at Alate Health in Houston,...

Getting your period is never fun, but it’s much more challenging when you struggle with abnormally heavy or prolonged uterine bleeding. This condition, called menorrhagia, impacts over 10 million American women, and uterine problems, like fibroids, could be to blame.  At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, board-certified and fellowship-trained interventional...

Did you know more than 35 million American women struggle with uterine fibroids? Although these benign growths are common, they’re surrounded by myths that can cause fear and anxiety for anyone with a fibroid diagnosis. At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, our experienced providers specialize in diagnosing and treating uterine...

The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland responsible for producing seminal fluid. But when this small gland grows larger than it should, the issues it triggers can cause problems in more than just your sex life.   Medical researchers call an enlarged prostate benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), and they still don’t understand...

If you have uterine fibroids, you understand the unpleasant symptoms they can cause. But did you know untreated fibroids can also lead to more severe health problems?  At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, Dr. Andrew Doe, a board-certified radiologist, specializes in helping women struggling with uterine fibroids find relief using...

Is the pain and discomfort of severe migraine headaches making your life miserable? You’re in good company. More than one billion people across the globe struggle with migraines, including over 40 million people in the United States.    But while knowing you’re not alone when it comes to migraines may provide...

If you’re struggling with chronic pain in your pelvis that worsens after sex, during your period, or after being on your feet all day, you could have a common but infrequently discussed condition called pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS).   Researchers estimate about one-third of all women experience PCS, but diagnosing this...

If you’re like most men, you don’t give your prostate much thought, unless it’s giving you trouble. This walnut-shaped gland plays an essential role in your reproductive system, but problems with it can affect more than just your sex life, making it necessary to be aware of and take action...

Are you tired of covering up your legs to keep unsightly spider or varicose veins out of sight? At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, we have a safe and effective solution that can restore your confidence and the appearance of your legs: minimally invasive sclerotherapy.  Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure...

Migraines are among the most common neurological conditions, affecting nearly 40 million Americans and over 1 billion people worldwide. Despite their prevalence, many people only associate migraines with a bad headache. The truth is that migraines come in stages, and head pain is only one of the four stages of...

Uterine fibroids may not be cancerous, but for the 35 million-plus women dealing with the pain and unpleasant symptoms, fibroids are anything but benign. From lower back pain to heavy bleeding to difficulty urinating, uterine fibroids can negatively impact your quality of life.    The good news is that you don’t...

If you have spider veins, you’re in good company. Studies show that about 60% of Americans develop these unsightly veins during their lifetime. While spider veins can make anyone feel embarrassed or uncomfortable about their legs’ appearance, many of our patients wonder if these tiny veins are harmful.  At Alate...

Did you know that about 35 million American women have uterine fibroids?  These benign (noncancerous) tumors range in size from the size of a seed to the size of a grapefruit, and they’re more common in women over 35. While many women know pelvic pain may be a sign of...

Are you worried about the health of your prostate? With 50% or more of men over 60 and 90% by age 80 having an enlarged prostate and 1 in 8 men diagnosed with prostate cancer, you have a good reason! Board-certified radiologist Dr. Andrew Doe at Alate Health in Houston,...

At least half of all men in America have an enlarged prostate by the time they reach age 60. And the numbers keep rising, with over 90% having the condition by eighty. Enlarged prostates may be common, but that doesn’t mean they can’t disrupt your life. Enlarged prostate, or benign...

Did you know researchers believe 80% of women will have at least one fibroid by age 50? Currently, over 35 million women in America have uterine fibroids, and doctors still don’t fully understand why some women develop these non-cancerous tumors. Fortunately, the medical community understands that certain factors put you...

Did you know the food you eat can increase your risk of developing fibroids?  Uterine fibroids affect about 35 million women in the United States. While the exact cause of these non-cancerous tumors isn’t known, medical researchers know several different factors — including diet — increase your risk of developing...

Are you experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding? Uterine fibroids could be the cause. These noncancerous tumors affect about 35 million American women and grow in your uterus. They can range dramatically, from teeny tiny to quite large, and the symptoms they cause.  Many women look for pelvic pain as an indicator...

Did you know that as men age, your risk for developing an enlarged prostate increases quickly? By age 55, about 25% of all men will have developed benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly referred to as an enlarged prostate. By age 60, this number rises to 50%, and by age 85,...

Did you know that more than 35 million American women struggle with the unfortunate symptoms of uterine fibroids? Now you can be fibroid free with safe and effective uterine fibroid embolization! At Alate Health in Houston, Texas, board-certified radiologist Dr. Andrew Doe specializes in eliminating uterine fibroids with minimally invasive...

If you’re worried about fibroids, you’re not alone. Over 35 million American women struggle with these common uterine growths that range from teeny tiny to quite large. While fibroids are common, they’re also surrounded by many myths that can create fear and anxiety when you’re diagnosed. Our team of fibroid...

Did you know that fibroids, benign growth in your uterus that range in size from very small to about the size of a grapefruit, affect over 35 million American women? If you’re suffering from these common growths and are thinking of starting a family, you’re probably concerned about how they...

Did you know that an enlarged prostate affects at least 50% of all American men by the age of 60 and over 90% by age 80? If you’re struggling with the negative symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate, board-certified radiologist Dr. Andrew Doe and the team at Alate Heath want...

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow in your uterus and can range in size from tiny to about the size of a grapefruit. These noncancerous growths affect at least 35 million American women, and for a large number of them, fibroids cause troublesome symptoms that require medical care. When...

If you suffer from cramps, heavy periods, or other troublesome female symptoms, Dr. Andrew Doe at Alate Health Interventional Radiology Clinic in Houston, TX can help. A common malady that produces these and other similar symptoms in women is uterine fibroids.  It is unknown exactly how many women live with...

First things first: your blood is carried through your body via a system of blood vessels called arteries and veins (arteries carry blood away from the heart and veins carry it back toward the heart). Vascular problems include any condition that affects this circulatory system, including diseases of the arteries,...

Pelvic pain can be anywhere from mild to severe, and it can flare up without warning during any moment of your life. Pelvic congestion syndrome can impact your sex life, work, and hobbies. Understanding it can be the first step to seeking the help you need.  At Alate Health in Houston,...

If you suffer from regular migraines, you know the throbbing pain they cause can be debilitating. Additional side effects that result from migraines, like nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and vomiting, make it difficult to go about your daily routine. Our team of doctors at Alate Health in Houston, TX,...

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a relatively common condition. An estimated 8 to 12 million Americans live with this disease. Both men and women can be equally affected by this condition.  While you often feel the symptoms of peripheral artery disease in your legs, the disease itself has more...

Uterine fibroids — the medical term is leiomyomata — are benign tumors that develop and grow within your uterus. Although uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors, they can impact your day-to-day life. If you suspect you have a fibroid, you’re not alone. As many as 80% of women develop fibroids by...

Are you forced to miss days of work or the joy of social activities because of back pain? If so, you're not alone. An estimated 31 million Americans are right there with you. The good news is, treatment is available — and it doesn't have to require surgery. Here at...

Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer in men, exceeded only by skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, each year in the U.S. about 165,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer and another 30,000 die from the disease. About one out of every 41 men...

If you have varicose veins, you know they can be quite unsightly. You may try covering them up with long pants and long skirts. You may even avoid going to the beach because they embarrass you. But varicose veins aren’t just a cosmetic concern. The enlarged, purple-blue or red veins...

Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths in your uterine wall. These masses can be tiny like a seed or grow as large as a grapefruit. You can have one fibroid or many, and they can develop slowly over years or within a few months. And, while a fibroid is considered a...

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that affect nearly 30% of all women between the ages of 30-45 and up to 70% of African American women by the time they reach 50 years of age. While not life-threatening, they may lead to complications and pain that can severely affect a woman’s...

Venous insufficiency is defined as the failure of veins to properly circulate blood from the legs back to the heart. It’s one of the most common chronic diseases in the United States, affecting up to 40% of women and 20% of men by the age of 50. With anywhere from 20...

Leg pain can take a serious toll on the quality of an individual’s life. Everyday activities that had been enjoyed for years on end may soon become impossible. Unfortunately, leg ulcers are a fairly common occurrence among middle-aged to senior men and women. As we age, our circulation begins slowing down and...

In this new age of medical technology, a hysterectomy surgery is no longer the only choice for women suffering from fibroids. Uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure that aims to relieve uterine pain, bloating, heavy bleeding during menstruation, and other fibroid symptoms without the pains and expenses...

Do your legs ache after sitting or standing for an extended period of time? Do you often feel pain in your hips or lower back? Is your period heavy or abnormal? If these symptoms describe you, there is a chance you may be suffering from pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). PCS...

Motherhood is a beautiful gift that women all over the world are ecstatic to experience. Few life events elicit more joy than bringing life into the world. For nearly thirty percent of women that are affected by uterine fibroids, this dream of motherhood may be plagued by anxiety about their health...

Your circulatory system is made up of an intricate roadway of veins and arteries that would stretch almost 100,000 miles if removed from the body. Our arteries and veins are responsible for transporting blood back and forth from the heart to the tissues of the body, playing a vital role...

As women, we generally know when something is not quite right with our bodies. When it comes to growths such as polyps vs. fibroids, there are often accompanying symptoms that alert you to the problem. Perhaps you have noticed abnormal or heavier vaginal bleeding. Maybe your uterus protrudes more than...

Vein disease affects patients in many different ways. Perhaps the pain prevents you from doing things you love. Or maybe swelling kicks up after a long day of work. Symptoms can vary, but when it comes to varicose and spider veins, many of our patients share common complaints. Though varicose...

You know the feeling. It’s that time of the month, and you have to worry about whether you might have an embarrassing accident if you’re away from home for too long. Or that you might feel faint from blood loss. For many women, this is the reality of living with...

On Tuesday, October 3, Dr. Doe visited Great Day Houston to chat with host Deborah Duncan about fibroids and uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally-invasive procedure. Patient Aladraine Hart joined him to discuss how her UFE treatment changed her life. Before Ms. Hart saw Dr. Doe, she was told that...

Though fibroids are a common occurrence among women – affecting as many as 75% in their lifetime – an aura of mystery still clouds them, especially when it comes to fibroid symptoms and treatment options. Distinguishing the myths from the facts can be confusing, and it can be hard to...

They can begin with a whisper, a small sign that no one else might notice as problematic: a flash of light; maybe a twinge of nausea. Anyone who suffers from migraines watches for these warnings of an impending attack, as they know the intense, debilitating pain and disruption of life...

We’ve all heard the Surgeon General’s warnings about smoking. Most people know about the risk of lung cancer, but many other health concerns can also arise as a result of smoking. In fact, smoking poses the greatest danger to the health of your arteries. At Alate Health, one of the...

Most of us have suffered for fashion at some point, but in some cases your wardrobe choices can cause more than just fleeting pain. That perfect pair of shoes might look amazing, but they could be contributing to your issues with varicose veins. Varicose veins and spider veins are a sign...

Our circulatory system is a marvel, comprised of arteries, veins, and capillaries that transport nutrients, water, and oxygen to cells in our bodies to keep us alive. In order to function properly, this 60,000-mile superhighway needs our support to stay healthy and in the best working order. Restricted blood flow...

You may notice it after a long shopping trip or after a night out with friends: lower back pain, aching in your legs, and maybe even abnormal bleeding. Usually you lie down to ease the pain, but it doesn’t always work. Maybe you’ve suffered for years with no answers. If...

For some, fibroids are a mere nuisance. For others, though, they can significantly affect the way they live their lives. If you’re one of the nearly 30% of American women ages 30-45 who are afflicted with fibroids, you may have heard that the only way to treat them is with...