Your Arterial Health Test Results: What a Type 6 Means

Vascular examination

Hello, doctor.
In my health check report, there is a vascular health test (Arterial Health Test) measured using a pulse oximeter (SMART PULSE) with a Type 1 to 7 scale.
I received a Type 6 result, and the report states that a lower number is better.
Does this indicate that I have a risk of vascular blockage, and should I seek further medical evaluation? Thank you.

kelly, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/29

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, I generally don't trust the data measured by pulse oximeters.
They are primarily for checking blood oxygen levels; other information can be considered but shouldn't be overly focused on.
It's best to observe for now.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/12/29

More Info

Understanding your arterial health test results is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. The test you underwent, which categorizes results into types ranging from 1 to 7, is designed to assess the condition of your arteries. In this system, a lower number typically indicates better arterial health, while a higher number suggests potential issues, including the risk of arterial blockage or other cardiovascular problems.

In your case, receiving a Type 6 result indicates that your arterial health is not optimal. While it does not necessarily mean you have a significant blockage, it does suggest that there may be some level of concern regarding your vascular health. The Type 6 classification implies that you might be at a higher risk for cardiovascular issues compared to those with a Type 1 or Type 2 result. It is essential to interpret this result in the context of other health indicators, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and lifestyle factors.

Given your Type 6 result, it would be prudent to consider further evaluation. Consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable, as they can offer a comprehensive assessment of your cardiovascular risk. They may recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound of the carotid arteries, a stress test, or even advanced imaging techniques like a CT angiogram, to evaluate the state of your blood vessels more thoroughly.

In addition to seeking medical advice, there are several lifestyle modifications you can implement to improve your arterial health. These include:
1. Dietary Changes: Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Reducing saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can help lower your risk of arterial blockage.

2. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

3. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing the strain on your heart and arteries. If you are overweight, even modest weight loss can significantly improve your cardiovascular health.

4. Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting is one of the most effective ways to improve your arterial health and reduce your risk of heart disease.

5. Stress Management: Chronic stress can negatively impact your cardiovascular health. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can help manage stress levels.

6. Regular Health Screenings: Keep up with regular health check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other vital health metrics.

In summary, a Type 6 result on your arterial health test indicates that there may be some risk factors present that warrant further investigation. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your results and consider additional testing or lifestyle changes that can help improve your arterial health. Taking proactive steps now can significantly impact your long-term cardiovascular well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Vascular Elasticity: What a Score of 6 Means for Your Health

Hello doctor, in my health check report, there is a vascular health assessment measured with a pulse oximeter (SMART PULSE) with a Type 1 to 7 scale. I received a score of 6. Does this indicate that I have a risk of vascular blockage, and should I seek further medical evaluation?...

Dr. Wu Xueming reply Cardiology
I am not aware of the normal values for the tests; please consult the physician who ordered the tests.

Understanding Coronary Angiography Results: What Do They Mean for Heart Health?

Hello, I would like to ask about the results of my family member's coronary angiography (they were hospitalized due to chest pain). The doctor mentioned that the left anterior descending artery shows atherosclerosis, the diagonal branch is 2/3 occluded in the mid-segment, an...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, congratulations! This report indicates that your vascular condition is good, and no further examination is needed. Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Understanding Your Cardiovascular Test Results: What They Mean for Your Health

Previously, I experienced left chest pain and consulted a cardiologist. On that day, I underwent a chest X-ray and an electrocardiogram, both of which were normal. Later, I was asked to have blood and urine tests. I suspected whether I might have a myocardial infarction, aortic d...

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Hello, blood and urine tests show no significant abnormalities, but myocardial infarction or aortic dissection cannot be determined from these tests. Essentially, myocardial infarction or aortic dissection are emergencies and would not allow you to feel comfortable enough to ask ...

Understanding Your Health Checkup Results: Key Insights and Next Steps

Hello, Dr. Huang... First of all, thank you. Last month, I went to the hospital for a health check-up, and the results showed some abnormalities, mainly as follows: Hemoglobin (RBC) 6.3, Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) 70, Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) 23, Basophils 1.2%, Total...

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine
1) The hemoglobin (RBC) level is 6.3, with a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 70 and a mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) of 231. These results may indicate thalassemia, and it is recommended to conduct further tests for serum iron and thalassemia screening. 2) The basophil perc...