The GP can investigate (or have investigated) whether the blood vessels in your legs are narrowed. We do this by comparing the blood pressure in your arms with the blood pressure in your ankles. This type of examination is called an ankle-brachial index and is performed by the assistant.
At this time, this cannot yet be performed at our practice, so we request this through the hospital.
Measuring the blood pressure at your ankle is similar to measuring the blood pressure at your arm. You will lie on the treatment table and a cuff will be placed on your leg and arms. The cuffs are inflated, and as they slowly deflate, the device measures the blood flow in the arteries. The ratio between the different values is called the ankle-brachial index.
Sometimes it is also necessary to perform an exercise test, during which you walk on a treadmill for several minutes, after which the examination is performed again.
The results will be discussed with the GP.
Points of attention:
- For this examination, please wear clothing that fits loosely around your arms and legs.
- You must not smoke starting from 2 hours before the examination.
