Protein Unstable Lesion Signature
PULS (Protein Unstable Lesion Signature Test) Cardiac Test
What are protein unstable lesions and how are they linked to heart attacks?
At Noble we practice a holistic approach to cardiovascular disease risk reduction and treatment. In order to apply the holistic approach it is important to know the cause of disease. When it comes to the heart and the cardiovascular system in general we need to know about the terrain that leads to serious events. The PULS test gives us insight into the state of this terrain.
Heart disease is a broad term for a group of conditions that can affect the heart and prevent it from properly functioning. Coronary heart disease when there is a buildup of fatty plaque within the blood vessels. As the plaque hardens over time, it begins to narrow arteries and reduce the flow of oxygen rich blood to the heart and other parts of the body. Plaque can also weaken the walls of the arteries causing unstable and inflamed lesions which could lead to a rupture. When these lesions are present, they leak unique proteins that can be detected in your bloodstream.
The main cause of heart attacks is the rupture of unstable cardiac lesions. We believe it is incredibly important to know the presence of these lesions so that we can work in prevention of a major coronary event.
What is a PULS Test?
A Protein Unstable Lesion Signature Test, also known as PULS test, measures the traces of proteins that leak from cardiac lesions in the blood vessel walls. By identifying the presence and levels of these proteins, along with HDL and HbA1c (cholesterol and blood sugar readings), it provides your physician with valuable information to help determine your risk for a heart attack and what steps you need to take to improve your cardiac health.
Who should get tested?
If you are over the age of 40 and have no previous history of heart attacks, you should speak to your healthcare provider to determine if the PULS test is right for you.
A PULS test may also be recommended if you have one or more of the following risks factors:
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Alcohol abuse
- Substance abuse
- Stress
- High cholesterol
Most heart attacks are preventable. The early detection of unstable cardiac lesions, combined with the management of risk factors, can help reduce the risk of heart disease and heart attacks.
Understanding Your Results
PULS test results will include:
– A personalized cardiac profile with individual test measurements for unstable cardiac lesions and the likelihood of rupture (heart attack).
– “Heart Age” which shows your cardiac score relative to your age and gender group.
– Recommended lifestyle modifications that may help maintain or reduce your chances of a heart attack.
Medical history, age, gender and other factors will influence the outcome of the tests. Your naturopathic physician will help explain the results and make recommendations for changes in lifestyles, additional treatments or if further testing is required.