As we age, it’s important to take proactive steps to protect our health. One potentially important step is getting a calcium score screening. But what exactly is a calcium score screening, and who should get one?
What is a calcium score screening?
A calcium score screening in West Orange, NJ is a test that measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. Calcium is a marker of plaque buildup, so the test can give doctors an idea of how much plaque is present and how severe the blockages are.
Who should get a calcium score screening?
A calcium score screening is a very important part of your overall cardiovascular health. The goal of the test is to look for areas of plaque build-up on the inside of your arteries that could lead to a heart attack or stroke.The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people with certain risk factors get a calcium score screening. These risk factors include:
– A family history of heart disease
– High blood pressure
– High cholesterol
– Diabetes
– Smoking
– Obesity
– Physical inactivity
What are the benefits of a calcium score screening?
There are several potential benefits of getting a calcium score screening. First, the test can help identify people who are at high risk for heart disease. This knowledge can then be used to make lifestyle changes or start preventive treatments to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Second, calcium score screenings can be used to monitor the progression of heart disease. If the test shows that the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries is increasing, it may be a sign that the disease is getting worse and that more aggressive treatment is needed.
Third, calcium score screenings may help guide treatment decisions. For example, if the test shows that a person has a high calcium score, they may be more likely to benefit from a procedure to open blocked arteries.
Conclusion:
If you have risk factors for heart disease, talk to your doctor about whether a calcium score screening is right for you. The test can offer important information about your heart health and help guide decisions about treatment.