Diagnostics of blood circulation disorders

Disorders of blood circulation in vital organs such as the heart, brain, or legs are among the most common causes of illness and death in Germany. However, such circulatory disorders often become noticeable through symptoms only when more than three-quarters of the vessel lumen is already blocked by arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Therefore, early detection of circulatory disorders in a stage where no symptoms are present is of particular importance.

The vascular system is a connected system, and the condition of the arteries at one point in the system provides insights into the rest of the vascular network.

The speed at which the pulse wave propagates through the arteries depends on the elasticity of the arteries. The more elastic (and thus healthier) the arteries are, the slower the pulse wave. As stiffness (arteriosclerosis) increases, the pulse wave velocity also increases. Together with another parameter (the blood pressure ratio between the arms and legs; ABI index), the measurement result of pulse wave velocity allows for the early detection of circulatory disorders long before the first symptoms occur.

Both parameters can be determined through a simple measurement process using modern technology. Blood pressure cuffs are applied to the upper arms and lower legs of the patient while they are lying down. Using computer control, the blood pressures in the arms and legs (for the ABI index) as well as the pulse wave velocities are determined. The measurement results are presented in a clear graphic. The entire measurement takes approximately 15 minutes.

"The person is as young as their blood vessels." (Author unknown)

Severe circulatory disorders significantly impair quality of life and reduce life expectancy. They often require surgical interventions (e.g., bypass surgeries) and long-term medication therapies.

Early detection of incipient circulatory disorders can slow down or prevent their progression through appropriate measures. In some cases, initial vascular changes can even regress, which can be demonstrated through follow-up measurements of ABI index and pulse wave velocity. In addition to medication and lifestyle changes, chelation therapy, oxygenation therapy, and orthomolecular therapy have shown significant improvements.

The determination of pulse wave velocity and ABI index should be part of every preventive examination starting from the age of 50.