Calcium score tests are a type of imaging test used to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. This test is used to detect the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and can help predict the risk of a heart attack.
What is a calcium score test?
A calcium score test is a type of imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. This test is used to detect the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and can help predict the risk of a heart attack.
Who should get a calcium score test?
A calcium score test is recommended for people who are at risk for CAD, such as those with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.
How often should you have a calcium score test?
The frequency of calcium score tests depends on your risk factors and your doctor’s recommendation.
Who shouldn’t get a calcium score test?
Calcium score tests are not recommended for people who are pregnant, have had a recent heart attack, or have had a recent coronary angiogram.
How is a calcium score test done?
A calcium score test is done using a CT scanner. The patient lies on a table and the scanner takes pictures of the heart from different angles.
How do I prepare for a calcium score test?
You should not eat or drink anything for four hours before the test. You should also avoid wearing any metal jewelry or clothing with metal buttons or zippers.
What should I expect during a calcium score test?
During the test, you will lie on a table and the scanner will take pictures of your heart from different angles. The test is painless and takes about 10 minutes.
What should I expect after a calcium score test?
After the test, you can resume your normal activities.
What are the risks of a calcium score test? Are there side effects?
There are no known risks or side effects associated with calcium score tests.
What type of results do you get and what do the results mean?
The results of a calcium score test are reported as a number, which is the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. A higher number indicates a higher risk of CAD.
What is the normal calcium score?
A normal calcium score is 0-100.
When should I know the results of the calcium score test?
The results of a calcium score test are usually available within a few days.
If the results are abnormal, what are the next steps?
If the results of the calcium score test are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing or treatment.
When should I call my doctor?
You should call your doctor if you experience any chest pain or other symptoms of CAD.
Does a calcium score test show blocked arteries?
A calcium score test does not show blocked arteries, but it can help predict the risk of a heart attack.
References:
1. American Heart Association. (2020). What is a calcium score test? Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-health/what-is-heart-disease/what-is-a-calcium-score-test
2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Coronary artery calcium scan. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/coronary-artery-calcium-scan/about/pac-20384717
3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Coronary artery calcium scan. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-artery-calcium-scan
Keywords: calcium score test, coronary artery disease, heart attack, CT scan, risk factors