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Calcium Score is a valuable tool in cardiovascular risk assessment, offering insights into the presence and extent of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries.
What Is Calcium Score?
Calcium Score, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring or coronary calcium scan, is a medical imaging technique used to assess the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. This non-invasive procedure provides a numerical score indicating the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) and helps predict the risk of future cardiovascular events. When calcium is present, the higher the score, the higher the risk of heart disease.
Calcium Score is obtained through a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scan. It helps healthcare professionals assess heart health and determine prevention and treatment strategies.
Who Needs Calcium Score?
Calcium scoring is often recommended for individuals with specific risk factors for heart disease, such as those with a family history of cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol levels. It is also beneficial for individuals in middle to older age brackets, especially if they have concerns about their heart health. Additionally, those with chest pain or shortness of breath may be candidates for a calcium score to assess their cardiovascular risk.
How Do I Prepare For Calcium Score?
To prepare for a Calcium Score assessment, start by scheduling a consultation with your doctor to discuss the necessity of the test based on your medical history and risk factors.
Wear comfortable clothing and arrive early at the imaging facility, allowing time for administrative processes and additional preparations. Do not wear jewellery around your neck or your chest. Additionally, inform the healthcare team if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
What Happens During Calcium Score?
During a Calcium Score assessment, positioned on the CT scanner table, ECG leads may be attached to monitor your heart’s activity. An IV line might be inserted if there are plans to go on to perform a CT coronary angiogram where contrast will be used.
The CT scanner then captures rapid cross-sectional images of the heart and coronary arteries, with brief breath-holding intervals to minimise motion artefacts. The obtained images undergo processing to calculate the Calcium Score, representing the amount of calcified plaque. After the procedure, ECG leads are removed, and if an IV line is used, it’s also taken out. You will be able to resume normal activities after the scan.
What To Do After Calcium Score?
After getting your Calcium Score, set up a meeting with your doctor to go over the results. Your doctor will explain your score for heart health and discuss your risk for future heart issues. They’ll give you personalised advice on things like lifestyle changes and medications to lower your risk. Follow these recommendations, focus on a healthy lifestyle, and stay in touch with your healthcare team for regular check-ups.
What are the Risks of a Calcium Score?
Obtaining a Calcium Score through a CT scan is generally considered safe with minimal risks. There is a small exposure to radiation during the scan but healthcare providers aim to minimise radiation doses to the lowest effective level.
