38 Irrawaddy Road #08-51, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
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38 Irrawaddy Road #08-51, Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, Singapore 329563
If your doctor has recommended a coronary calcium scan, you might be feeling uncertain about what to expect and what the results could mean for your health. Worry not—we are here to simplify everything for you. This article will break down how the scan works, what it reveals about your heart health, and the next steps you can take based on the results.
A coronary calcium scan is a specialised CT scan that identifies and locates calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. Calcium can build up in the arteries as a result of plaque, which is made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Over time, plaque buildup can lead to narrowed or blocked arteries, putting you at risk of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Patients may also undergo a CT coronary angiogram after a coronary calcium scan. A CT coronary angiogram provides a clearer view of the arteries and can help assess the severity of any blockages or narrowed areas. These results can help guide subsequent treatment and management decisions.
One important result of the scan is the CT calcium score, which indicates the amount of calcium present in your arteries. The score falls into specific ranges that indicate different levels of risk:
A score of zero generally means that no calcium was detected in your arteries. However, this does not completely rule out the possibility of developing CAD as severe blockages can also occur from formation of soft plaque.
If your score falls within this range, it means there is some calcium in your arteries. This could indicate the beginning stages of plaque buildup. While this result may not be a cause for immediate concern, your doctor may suggest stricter risk factor control and lifestyle changes as well as further monitoring.
A score in this range indicates a higher level of calcium, which may suggest more significant plaque buildup. This does not mean that heart disease is inevitable, but it does suggest that more action should be taken to protect your heart. This may include medication and lifestyle changes or undergoing additional tests.
Scores above 400 suggest a higher level of plaque in the arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart-related issues. In this case, your doctor will likely want to discuss the next steps in more detail.
Understanding these calcium score ranges and their meaning will help you gain a clearer picture of your heart health.
Following your coronary calcium scan, your heart specialist will determine the most appropriate next steps.
Depending on your calcium score and existing risk factors, your healthcare professional may recommend additional cardiovascular screenings. For example, they may suggest a stress test or echocardiogram to evaluate how well your heart functions under stress or to check for any underlying damage.
Regardless of your score, making healthy lifestyle choices is always beneficial. If your score suggests a higher risk of CAD, consider incorporating changes such as eating a healthier diet, exercising more regularly, and reducing stress.
Your doctor may recommend medication to manage factors like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Medication can be an important tool in managing your heart health, particularly if your calcium score suggests a higher risk of issues like a heart attack.
Your coronary calcium scan score is an important factor in understanding your cardiovascular well-being, but it is just the beginning of your journey. This score serves as a crucial starting point, allowing you to take control and work towards preventing further complications. By staying informed and proactive, you can make choices today that contribute to heart disease prevention.
Dr. Leslie Tay provides a range of cardiovascular services, including heart screenings, coronary calcium scans, echocardiograms, and more. Whether you are looking for early detection or ongoing management, our team is here to provide the guidance and care you need.
Get in touch with us today.
