CT Coronary Artery Calcium Scan: What is it?

Calcium

Calcium is very important for your bones, but for your heart, it can be dangerous. Excess calcium in your heart can cause you to have heart diseases.

Plaque in your coronary arteries is made from the substances found in blood like calcium, cholesterol, fats, and other substances. The plaque takes a few years to build up. You might not exhibit the symptoms at first that is why it is important that you get a CT coronary artery calcium scan after every 5 to 7 years.

What is CT Coronary Artery Calcium Scan?

Calcium deposits can block your coronary arteries, which can cause you to have a heart attack. A coronary artery scan can help your doctor determine if you are at risk of getting a coronary microvascular disease, coronary heart disease, or atherosclerosis.

A CT coronary artery calcium scan can give your doctors a better picture of what is inside your arteries. If not detected, the calcium will keep on forming, resulting in you getting heart diseases.

Every organ in your body has a specific function, and for your bodies to run properly these organs need to their job perfectly. The arteries are responsible for the blood flow to and from the heart, and if these arteries become clogged or blocked the blood flow is restricted or blocked.

Through this test, your doctors can determine if you are at a risk of getting these diseases or not. the sooner you have the answer, the sooner you can begin treatment, if needed.

The plaque, if not treated, can burst, which will lead you to have a heart attack.

When Should I Have the Scan?

As you are exposed to a small amount of radiation in this test, your doctor might not recommend you to have this test unless:

• You have a family history of coronary heart disease
• Your cholesterol levels are abnormal
• Your blood pressure is not within the normal limits
• You are a smoker
• Your gender – women are more prone to getting heart diseases than men

What is the Procedure?

The procedure of coronary artery calcium scan is the same as that of any CT scan. Upon arriving at the hospital, you will be asked to put on a hospital gown. Your heart rhythm will be recorded via an electrocardiogram (ECG) while you are having the CT coronary artery calcium scan.

Are There any Risks?

With X-rays or CT scans, a small amount of radiation is used. This radiation is not a threat towards you, but if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, you should avoid it.

What are the Benefits of CT Coronary Artery Calcium Scan?

Having this test can give you a better understanding of your health conditions. Usually, heart diseases are not diagnosed until it is a little late, but with this scan, you can have the information beforehand. It can reduce the risk of you getting a heart disease.

Are you worried about the health of your heart? Make an appointment with Keystone Cardiovascular Canter and they will provide you with the best care.