Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death globally. Such an alarming number emphasizes the importance of heart scans in the preliminary stages to take prevention measures. A heart scan such as a coronary calcium score and heart CT scan offer valuable insights into arteries, blood vessels and heart. This allows us to take preventive measures that may prevent heart stroke or other diseases. These heart scans are non-invasive and work to detect the buildup of calcium in the coronary arteries before the manifestation of symptoms. In this post, we will take you through a checklist to navigate heart scans and their benefits. So, you may make well-informed decisions concerning your heart health.
What is a Heart Scan and How Does it Work?
A heart scan is also known as a heart CT scan. It is a non-invasive procedure that captures detailed 3D images of the arteries of the heart. It uses CT computed tomography technology to measure the build of calcium in the coronary arteries. The calcium buildup also known as plaque is an early indicator of heart disease that may end up as heart stroke. In that way, calcium coronary score in Fort Worth helps in assessing the risk of developing major heart conditions such as heart stroke.
The identification of plaque buildup allows an individual to take different preventive measures by bringing active changes in lifestyle and eating style. This also includes medical treatment. Hence, heart scans play a major role in the identification of different heart diseases and save the lives of people.
Checklist 1: Should I Consider a Heart Scan?
This is the top-tier question that comes to the minds of many people. A heart scan is essential for people, who have different risk factors. These factors include the following:
- If you have a family history or any case of heart cancer, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Further, if you are a smoker, your doctor may suggest a scan to assess your heart health.
- People with diabetes and a sedentary lifestyle are also at an increased risk of heart disease. They must consult with their doctors.
- Some people above the age of 40 have an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. They may benefit from a heart scan.
However, the decision to get a heart scan or coronary calcium heart scan must be made in consultation with the doctor. The doctor better evaluates your health history and risk factors. In that way, he guides better on whether to get a heart scan or not.
Checklist 2: What is a Coronary Calcium Score and Why Does it Matter?
The coronary calcium score measures the exact amount of plaque buildup within the arteries. The calcium deposits block the arteries and increase the risk of cardiac arrest. The score comes from a heart CT scan and offers clear images of the condition of the heart. The score gets into three groups depending upon the risk factor.
- Low 0-99: It identifies low plaque. It indicates a low risk of cardiac arrest.
- Moderate 100-399: It identifies moderate plaque. The risk of cardiac arrest is higher in this case.
- High 400 and above: It identifies an extreme buildup of plaque and calls for immediate medical intervention for the prevention of major cardiac arrest.
Checklist 3: What is the Cost of a Heart Scan?
The heart scan cost varies from lab to lab. It usually ranges from $100 to $400. However, it also depends on the location of the lab, the type of scan, and the healthcare provider. Prices also differ on the use of technology for scans. Some insurance plans do cover the cost of heart scans. Nevertheless, if the intent is preventive, not diagnostic then the patient may have to pay from the pocket.
How to Find a Heart Scan Near Me?
If you want to take control of your heart health, then try searching for a heart scan near me. You may also visit ViaScan of Las Colinas for any kind of heart scan with the latest technology and at reasonable prices. However, it is important to consider the reputation, use of technology, and healthcare facilities before making the final decision for a heart scan.
Author: Herry Sam
Digital Marketing Expert
