About this Video

• Video Title: An Easy, At Home Test to Find Plaque in your Arteries
• Channel: Physionic
• Speakers: The video primarily features one speaker, though it mentions Dr. Ford Brewer whose video is referenced.
• Duration: 10:35

Introduction

This video explains a simple at-home test, the ankle brachial index (ABI) test, to assess the possibility of arterial plaque buildup. The speaker discusses the test's accuracy and sensitivity, emphasizing it's not a replacement for professional medical diagnosis.

Key Takeaways

• The ABI test is a simple, indirect method to assess arterial plaque by measuring blood pressure differences between the arm and ankle. Higher resistance to blood flow (lower ABI) suggests potential plaque buildup.
• The test's specificity is high (98%), accurately identifying those without significant plaque, but sensitivity (around 90%) is lower for detecting small amounts of plaque. Accuracy is reduced in people with diabetes.
• The test should not be used for diagnosis alone; it should be coupled with consultation with a physician. Individuals with DVT or severe leg pain should not perform this test.
• The ABI is calculated by dividing the highest ankle systolic blood pressure by the highest arm systolic blood pressure. An ABI of 0.6 to 0.89 suggests possible plaque; below 0.6 indicates a high likelihood of plaque. Values between 0.9 and 1.4 are considered fine.
• Addressing risk factors like blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and insulin resistance is crucial, especially with ABI values below 0.89.

The two caveats mentioned are:

1. The 98% specificity and 90% sensitivity are only true if a person has 50% or greater blockage. The numbers are likely lower for detecting smaller amounts of plaque.

2. The reported numbers are based on experts performing the test, not individuals self-administering it. People with diabetes also tend to have lower specificity.

According to the video:

• 0.9 - 1.4: These values are considered fine.

• 0.8 - 0.89: This range suggests a need to focus on reducing cardiovascular disease risks.

• 0.6 - 0.89: There is a possibility of plaque buildup.

• Below 0.6: This indicates a high likelihood of plaque buildup.

The video describes the process as follows:

1. Rest: Rest for 5 minutes before beginning the test to allow blood pressure to stabilize. Avoid stimulants like caffeine beforehand.

2. Equipment: Gather a blood pressure cuff, pen, paper, and a comfortable place to lie down.

3. Measurements: Take blood pressure readings in the following order: left arm, left ankle, right arm, right ankle. Record both systolic and diastolic readings for each. The video shows the speaker using an electronic blood pressure monitor; a manual cuff could also be used.

4. Calculation: Cross out the diastolic readings (bottom numbers). Use the highest systolic reading (top number) from your ankle measurements and divide it by the highest systolic reading from your arm measurements. This gives your ABI value.

5. Interpretation: Interpret your ABI value based on the ranges described previously (0.9-1.4 is fine, 0.8-0.89 warrants attention to risk factors, etc.).