The medical world is constantly evolving, but health remains to be a number one challenge in the modern world, particularly when it comes to the heart’s state. Cardiologists all over the world constantly seek better methods and treatments to treat heart attack, which includes stress tests, maintenance pills, and other tools.
Among the most heavily utilized tools is the coronary artery calcium CT scan, which makes use of a CT scanner that takes multiple photographs of the area. These photographs are then combined into a single result, which allows doctors a full view of any calcium specks that may be existing in the heart’s walls. These specks are formally known as calcifications and can be a telltale sign of a cardiovascular condition.
To learn more about coronary CT scans, we’ve created this quick and easy guide for you to follow:
How can a coronary CT scan help you?
As previously mentioned, coronary CT scans are used to detect the presence of calcifications in the artery walls, which act as blocks that prevent your blood from circulating properly. Keep in mind that these plaques are complex mixes of calcium, cholesterol, and other materials that incur over the years, effectively preventing the arteries from functioning well.
With the help of a CT scanner, however, any sign of these plaques or calcifications will be detected. As a result, any potential heart attacks can be calculated by your doctor. You’ll be then directed to treatments and other options, ensuring that your heart stays as healthy as possible.
Are there any potential risks?
Coronary CT scans are generally safe and beneficial for most people, helping medical professionals detect any abnormalities that may cause various health problems. However, in some instances, these scans can also come with some minor risks and drawbacks.
One of the more prominent drawbacks to coronary CT scans is that it’s not typically covered by health insurance, leading patients to pay money out of pocket to get a scan. Furthermore, if any abnormalities appear in the scans, medical professionals may advise patients to have further tests administered to them, increasing the overall medical costs.
Coronary CT scans may also cause an increased sense of worry in patients when medical professionals detect plaque and calcium in their hearts. Plaque is normally present in many healthy individuals, but some individuals may worry that the results of the coronary CT scan automatically mean a higher risk for heart attacks.
Coronary CT scans make use of high levels of radiation, which may have negative effects on the body, particularly in pregnant women. In rare cases, patients may also have some adverse reactions to the dye used in the procedure.
The Bottom Line
The best way to prevent cardiovascular diseases is through a lifestyle revamp. You’ll need to maintain a healthy weight and diet, as well as avoid alcohol and tobacco. Any existing conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes must also be managed all, regardless of any heart disease risk.
More importantly, however, it’s best to engage in CT scans to ensure that your heart is functioning well—away from the build-up of too many calcifications. In doing so, you can very well prevent the risks of getting a heart attack or stroke.
It’s also important to keep in mind that not all heart scans can accurately assess the full state of your heart. Make sure to get your scans from a reputable medical institution.
For the best possible results, make sure that your medical institution is working with DirectMed Parts. We offer only the best and tested machines, topped with decades of experience and expertise. When it comes to all things medical imaging, we’ve got you covered. Reach out today to learn more.
