Vital System Assessment Tests, also known as VSAT testing, are a series of tests that your healthcare provider can use to monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments and medications that you have received. Here at Innovative Medicine in Lafayette, IN, we have dedicated ourselves to providing the utmost in care, including these helpful, life-saving diagnostic tests.
What Does VSAT Testing Involve?
VSAT involves a collection of tests to help your healthcare professionals figure out whether your medication is actually improving your health. The outcome of the various tests will allow your provider to determine whether more testing is needed or if an adjustment needs to be made to your current medication in order to achieve optimal results.
What Tests Are Included?
The tests include a heart rate variability test, a pulse rate velocity test, and a sudomotor function test, all of which are measuring something different to give your healthcare provider a complete picture of what’s going on inside your body.
Heart Rate Variability
The heart rate variability (HRV) test measures irregularities in your heartbeat and the balance between your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. A low HRV indicates that the body is under stress (whether from exercise, mental stress, or other sources). The lower your HRV score, the more likely you are to be at risk for conditions like coronary atherosclerosis.
Pulse Rate Velocity Test
This test measures your vein and arterial elasticity. Basically, the test measures pressure waves in your arms and determines how stiff your veins are. This can help predict the risk of cardiovascular problems like myocardial infarction and stroke.
Sudomotor Function Test
The sudomotor function test measures the function of nerves that control sweating. This test can be useful for a variety of potential conditions by monitoring the progression of neuropathies and determining whether there has been damage to your nervous system.
How Is VSAT Testing Done?
Although it sounds like there is a lot involved, VSAT testing is easy, non-invasive, and safe. In fact, it is common for patients to fall asleep during the testing. Depending on your medical history, you can expect the testing to last between fifteen and thirty minutes.
During the test, sensors will be placed on the skin to monitor your vital signs. Sit back in the chair and let the testing equipment take care of all the work. The sensors are designed to monitor your heart rate variability, vein and arterial elasticity, and neuropathies. There are no injections, no blood draws, and no needles. It’s just a simple topical monitor that painlessly takes its readings and lets you get on with living your life as quickly as possible.
Depending on your test results and medical history, your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up tests. In some cases, your healthcare provider may stop certain medications if the readings show that the medication is doing more harm than good or that the medication is unnecessary. Either way, the best way to take control of your health is to have the best possible information.
Get Started
If you believe you could benefit from VSAT testing, reach out to us here at Innovative Medicine in Lafayette, IN. Our experienced professionals are happy to help you determine whether this testing is right for you and what your options are. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
