Private Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Test

Because your health matters.

A Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) test, typically the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test, is a diagnostic examination used to assess the health of the arteries outside the heart, particularly those in the limbs. The ABI test involves comparing blood pressure in the ankle to that in the arm to evaluate blood flow to the legs.

Our private PAD tests are quick, easy and most appointments only last 20 - 30 minutes. With over 350 testing venues across England and Ireland, you’ll find a date, time and venue convenient for you.

Included in our comprehensive private health checks, the PAD test can also be added as an individual test to many of our existing full body health packages. Taking charge of your heart health has never been more convenient.

Explore our packages and book online today.

USPs

USPs
  • 1.

    Fast, accurate results

  • 2.

    Competitively priced testing within 20 minutes of your home

  • 3.

    Detailed, personalised Results Report

  • 4.

    Access to our 24/7 GP hotline with all test packages

How it works

How it works

1. Select and book your package

View our health test packages and book a full body private health check. All our individual tests can be added to any of our private health check packages. Just call our team on 0800 652 2183 before your appointment to add an extra test.

2. Make an appointment

Choose the venue, date and time that suits you. With over 2000 appointments available nationwide every week, you're sure to find a convenient time, date and venue.

3. Attend your appointment

A trained phlebotomist will carry out your blood test. The whole process only takes around 20 - 30 minutes.

4. Fast, accurate results within 8 days

Within around 8 days, you'll receive your personalised digital Results Report.

What is a private Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) test?

A private Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) test is typically used to diagnose peripheral artery disease. Typically utilising the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test, this non-invasive procedure assesses blood flow to the legs by comparing blood pressure in the ankle to that in the arm.

As you lay on your back, our trained phlebotomists will assess your blood pressure in both your upper arms and ankles. This involves the use of a cuff and a Doppler probe, which utilises sound waves to gauge the blood flow within your arteries.

If your circulatory system is healthy, the blood pressure in both the upper and lower regions of your body should align closely or be nearly identical. This alignment typically results in an ABPI (Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index) of 1.

Why would I need a private Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) test?

A PAD test is important to any full body health screening or heart health profile. It can help you uncover key insights into your heart health and the overall functioning of your cardiovascular system. A PAD test can help you:

  • Gain important insights into your overall heart health and help detect any potential concerns early.
  • A PAD test provides a thorough evaluation of your peripheral arteries, which is crucial for detecting potential blockages or narrowing.
  • Acting as a benchmark for future monitoring, the PAD test enables the tracking of vascular health changes over time.
  • Proactively monitor and detect early signs of heart disease, particularly if you have risk factors or a family history of cardiovascular conditions.
  • If you have a pre-existing heart condition, incorporating regular PAD testing into your healthcare routine is helpful for ongoing monitoring.

Your results explained in detail

Your Results Report explains each one of your test results in detail, with no confusing medical jargon. You’ll receive the actual reading for every test we've run, with each result given a 'flag' of green, amber or red.

Green results are within the recommended range for your age and sex; amber results are slightly outside what we'd normally expect; and red results are further outside the norm.

Where a result is amber or red, we'll give follow up advice on what to do next - whether that's making lifestyle changes, simply monitoring the result, or visiting a specialist for further investigation.

Private health checks for complete peace of mind

Our full body private health checks are designed for busy people who want to take control of their health. Our tests are quick, accurate, convenient and completely stress-free. No waiting for an appointment, no invasive procedures, no embarrassing questions, no long travel times and no busy waiting rooms.

Trained phlebotomists carry out all tests in over 350 venues across the UK and Ireland, so you get accurate professional health checks within 20 minutes of your home. Our private health checks include all the tests you need to take a proactive approach to monitoring and improving your health.

A PAD blood test can be added to any full body health check. Just book one of our full body private health assessments and call us before your appointment to add an extra test.

Need help? Call free on

0800 652 2183 to speak to one of our team.

FAQs

The PAD test is currently not available at home. All of our tests are carried out in-person by trained phlebotomists in one of our 350 venues across the UK and Ireland. An in-person test guarantees the accuracy of your test results and enables us to get your samples to the laboratory for testing quickly, giving you your results faster.
Diagnosing peripheral artery disease involves: Medical history: A comprehensive evaluation of medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle. Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test: Precise measurement of blood pressure variations between the ankle and arm, indicating potential blood flow issues. Doppler ultrasound: Utilisation of sound waves for a meticulous assessment of blood flow, identifying blockages or abnormalities. Advanced imaging techniques: In intricate cases, advanced imaging methods are used, such as Angiography, CT, or MRI for detailed analysis.
The primary test for PAD is the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Test. It compares blood pressure in the ankle to that in the arm, assessing blood flow to the legs. A lower ABI may indicate narrowed or blocked arteries, a common sign of PAD. The test is non-invasive, using a blood pressure cuff and Doppler ultrasound device.
The PAD test is generally suitable for individuals interested in monitoring their cardiovascular health and obtaining insights into overall wellbeing. It is especially beneficial for those with specific symptoms or risk factors related to heart health. The test is routine, involving a simple blood draw, and is considered a safe diagnostic procedure with minimal associated risks.
Your test results and other readings will each be given a ‘flag’ of a different colour: green, amber or red. Green results are within the recommended range for your age and sex; amber results are slightly outside what we'd normally expect; and red results are further outside the norm. Where a result is amber or red, we'll give follow up advice on what to do next - whether that's making lifestyle changes, simply monitoring the result, or visiting your GP for further investigation. If there are any critical results discovered by our laboratory, we will contact you immediately, so you won’t need to wait for your full results report to arrive to take appropriate action.
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), also known as peripheral vascular disease, is a circulatory condition that occurs when there is a buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis) in the arteries, particularly those that supply blood to the legs and feet. This buildup narrows and restricts blood flow to the affected limbs, leading to various symptoms and, if left untreated, potentially causing complications.
PAD often develops gradually, and some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they typically involve reduced blood flow to the legs. Claudication: Leg pain, cramping, or fatigue during activity. Numbness or Weakness: Reduced sensation or weakness in the legs. Coldness in the Lower Leg or Foot: Noticeable decrease in temperature. Changes in Skin Colour: Paler or bluish tint in the skin. Shiny Skin: Skin on the legs appearing shiny. Slow Toenail Growth: Impaired circulation affects toenail growth. Weak or Absent Pulse: Pulse in the affected limb may be weakened or absent.
A PAD test is already included in many of our complete private health checks. It can also be added as an extra test to any individual health package. Call free on 0800 652 2183 before your appointment to speak to one of our team.
Your blood samples and other readings will be analysed by one of the leading laboratories in the UK with which we have established partnerships. Once they have analysed your samples and readings, your test results are sent securely to our in-house Results team, who compile your personalised Results Report.
Full preparation instructions will be provided in writing when you book your appointment.

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