Heart disease is still the number one cause of death around the world. This highlights the importance of early detection and preventative measures. Calcium Heart Score emerged as one of the most reliable and non-invasive methods to evaluate the likelihood of coronary arterial disease (CAD) among the various tools available. This article gives an overview of what the Calcium heart score is, how it functions, and why it is essential for cardiac health.
What Is The Calcium Heart Score?
The Calcium heart score (also called coronary arterial calcium or CAC) is a diagnostic test that measures how much calcium has been deposited into the walls and arteries of the heart. These arteries provide oxygen-rich blood to the heart, and calcium is a mark of atherosclerosis – a condition that occurs when plaque builds up, narrowing the arteries.
The CAC Score is derived from a CT scan. Also known as heart scans or calcium scans, this scan is often called a CT scan. The score is based on the amount of calcium in the body and the number of deposits.
How Is The Test Performed?
The CAC Test is fast, painless, and non-invasive. Here’s how the test works:
- Preparation: You do not need to prepare, but your doctor might recommend that you refrain from smoking or drinking caffeine before the test.
- CT Scan: This procedure involves lying on a flat table while a CT scanner takes images of your chest. To minimize motion, you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.
- Score Calculation: The CT scans are analyzed for calcium deposits, and the calcium level is used to compute a score.
Who Should Get A Calcium Heart Score Test?
For those with a moderate risk of heart disease, the CAC test may be extremely helpful. It’s especially helpful for people:
- You must be between the ages of forty and seventy.
- If you have no symptoms but risk factors, including high cholesterol, high pressure, diabetes, or a family background of heart disease.
This test is not recommended by individuals with low heart disease risk, younger people who do not have risk factors, and those who already have coronary artery sclerosis because the results are unlikely to change management.
Why Is The Calcium Heart Score Important?
The CAC scores provide many benefits in cardiac risk evaluation:
- Early detection: It detects calcium deposits before symptoms of cardiovascular disease are evident, allowing timely intervention.
- Personalized treatment: The test allows doctors and other healthcare professionals to customize your prevention strategy based on specific risk factors, such as lifestyle changes or medications.
- Accuracy in Predictive: Studies have shown that the CAC score can better predict future cardiac events than risk factors.
- Motivating Lifestyle Changes: Evidence of calcium buildup may motivate patients to adopt better habits, including exercising, eating healthy foods, and quitting cigarettes.
Limitations Of The Calcium Heart Score
Although the CAC is an excellent tool, you should be aware of its limitations.
- No Info About Soft Plaque: The test detects only calcified plaque.
- Exposure to Radiation: Although minimal, the test exposes you to ionizing radiation.
- There is no direct treatment. Further tests may be needed.
How To Lower Your Cardiac Risk After A CAC Test?
Regardless of CAC, enhance your cardiovascular health by taking preventative measures. These include:
- Exercise: Aim to do at least 150 minutes a week of moderately aerobic activity.
- Manage risk Factors: Control conditions, such as high blood cholesterol, high pressure, and diabetes, through medication or lifestyle changes.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking causes plaque to build up faster and increases heart disease risks.
- Regular Monitor: Always follow your doctor’s instructions for any additional testing and treatment.
Conclusion
The Calcium Heart Score (CHS) is an effective tool for assessing cardiovascular risk and guiding prevention. It assists physicians and patients in making well-informed choices on heart health by identifying coronary artery calcifications. Ask your doctor if a CAC is the right test for you if your heart health concerns you. Your heart health is in your own hands. By taking proactive measures today, you can improve your future health.