Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) is a type of noninvasive vascular study used to test patients for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).
ABI compares the blood pressures in a patient’s ankle arteries with the arteries in their arms in order to indicate if the patient is receiving adequate blood flow in their feet.
Sudomotor function tests are used as a type of noninvasive peripheral nerve test for Peripheral Autonomic Neuropathy.
Sudomotor tests use a variety of noninvasive methods to test a patient’s sweat production in order to indicate if the autonomic nerves are functioning properly.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a disease in which the patient has reduced blood flow in the arms or legs (usually the legs) and is often caused by a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis).
Peripheral Autonomic Neuropathy is a disease in which the patient has damage to the nerves that control automatic bodily functions on the periphery. This nerve damage affects the messages sent between the brain and the autonomic nervous system in the hands and feet and can affect the sweat glands and blood vessels.
Peripheral Artery Disease Risk Factors
- Diabetes
- Smoking (cigarette)
- 50+
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- Obesity
- Family History
Peripheral Autonomic Neuropathy Risk Factors
- Diabetes
- Peripheral Arterial Disease
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Kidney and Liver Disorders
- Hypothyroidism
If you suspect that you have peripheral artery disease or peripheral autonomic neuropathy, you should call your healthcare provider and request to be tested.