What is Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV)
Pulse Wave Velocity is a measure of arterial stiffness, or the rate at which pressure waves move down the circulatory system. It is a non-invasive technique which allows you to evaluate your cardiovascular health.
Pulse wave velocity changes with age, lifestyle and disease. It has been established as a highly reliable indicator of cardiovascular health. Medical research has demonstrated a strong correlation between the stiffness of the arteries and the risk of a cardiovascular incident. Stiffer arteries indicate a greater risk for high blood pressure, stroke or heart attack.
As blood flows through the vessels of the circulatory system, it moves out of the left ventricle and into the aorta where it is then pushed through the rest of the circulatory system. During systole, the contraction of the left ventricle and the ejection of blood into the ascending aorta, acutely dilates the aortic wall and generates a pressure wave that moves along the arterial tree. The velocity of this movement gives a measurement of arterial compliance. With age, or due to changes in the arterial wall, these vessels become stiffer and the speed at which the pressure wave moves through the system is increased.
In addition, there are reflected pressure waves that move back towards the heart at the end of the systolic period. When the pressure waves move faster through the arteries, the reflected waves will also move back quicker. This causes more work on the Cardiovascular system due to the increased afterload on the ventricle resulting in a greater systolic pressure needed to overcome this afterload.
The good news is that you can decrease your Pulse Wave Velocity with healthy lifestyle changes. If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can have a tremendous impact. Engaging in physical exercise, and limiting salt and alcohol intake may also help to decrease your Pulse Wave Velocity. Additionally, managing stress can help you avoid elevated heart rate and blood pressure readings that can hurt your arteries over the long term.