Cardio Metabolic Risk Assessment Test (ANS Testing)
Important Facts
ANS testing allows for early detection of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and circulatory problems including arterial stiffness and peripheral artery disease (PAD)
ANS testing allows your doctor to objectively assess your current condition and efficacy of current treatment protocol
American Diabetes Association recommends routine screening for Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy (CAN) for patients with diabetes
Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy increases the likelihood of a fatal heart attack or stroke by five times and is asymptomatic
Chronic conditions(diseases) can damage the autonomic nervous system over time
What is Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)?
The autonomic nervous system regulates certain body processes, such as blood pressure, digestion, sexual function, liver, kidney, blood vessels, pupils, sweat, salivary, bladder, lungs, heart and the rate of breathing. This system works automatically (autonomously), without a person’s conscious effort.
Disorders of the autonomic nervous system can affect any body part or process. Autonomic disorders may be reversible or progressive.
The ANS test assesses potential damage to the nerves that control the heart, neuropathy (nerve damage) in the feet, stiffening of the arteries, insulin resistance, peripheral artery disease risk and sedentary lifestyle risk.
What to Expect on Testing Day
The ANS test lasts approximately 8 minutes and is non-invasive. The patient lays flat on an exam table for most of the test. Blood pressure cuffs are placed on both ankles and both arms. A pulse oximeter is placed on a finger and sensors are placed on the feet. During the test, the patient will lay still, perform some breathing exercises and then stand for about one minute.
ANS patient reports will be discussed in detail at your next appointment.