WHAT IS AN ABI TEST?

 

The ankle-brachial index test is a quick, non-invasive way to check

 for peripheral artery disease (PAD). The disease occurs when narrowed

 arteries reduce the blood flow to your limbs. PAD can cause leg pain

when walking and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

 

The ankle-brachial index test compares the blood pressure measured

at your ankle with the blood pressure measured at your arm. A low

ankle-brachial index number can indicate narrowing or blockage of

the arteries in your legs.

 

You may have ankle-brachial index testing before and immediately

after walking on a treadmill. An exercise ankle-brachial index test

can assess the severity of the narrowed arteries during walking.

 

Your doctor might recommend an ankle-brachial index test if you

have leg pain while walking or risk factors for PAD, such as:

 

history of tobacco use

 

diabetes

 

high blood pressure

 

high cholesterol

 

restricted blood flow (atherosclerosis) in other parts of your body

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