Calcium scan concerns
Matthew McLaren
PhD in Nutritional Science| Author of 5 Books| Health, Wellness and Marriage
A coronary artery calcium scan is a special CT scan that highlights calcium deposits in the plaque that lines and clogs the arteries feeding the heart. In general, calcium scans are very accurate. Unlike some other imaging tests, the results are unlikely to be either falsely negative (that is, the test indicates no problem when there actually is one) or falsely positive (the test indicates a problem when there isn’t). That’s because the results are literally black and white. The scanner takes multiple pictures of the heart in thin sections, which are then combined to produce a view that reveals calcium deposits as white specks. The machine’s software then calculates a score based on the amount of calcification. Any score above zero indicates the presence of plaque.
Coronary artery calcium scansThe white areas in the bottom image reveal areas of plaque inside the heart.Photos: NIH
A score of 480 is indeed quite high, but the fact that your subsequent echo stress test did not uncover symptoms or evidence of any blood flow restriction to your heart muscle is good news. Your well-controlled blood pressure also bodes well for you. Increasing your statin dose is likely a good idea.
Sometimes people want to repeat their calcium scans, but there is little use in doing that, as you already know you have a high calcium score and coronary artery disease.
The best additional advice I can offer is to make sure you’re eating a healthy diet, which means plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Steer clear of foods high in unhealthy fats, especially red and processed meats, but also high-sugar products such as ice cream. If you’re overweight, consider consulting a dietitian or nutritionist who can work with you to create an effective plan to shed any extra pounds. Follow the federal government’s recommended guidelines for regular daily physical activity (see www.hhs.gov/fitness/be-active/ways-to-be-active) and make time for stress-relieving activities, such as reading, listening to music, or other hobbies.
You are at an increased risk of a heart attack. If you do develop worrisome symptoms in the future, such as pressure, discomfort, or a squeezing sensation in your chest, call 911 immediately if they persist for more than just a few minutes.
Bible verses for today’s meditation and inspiration: Matthew E. McLaren
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” – Matthew 7:11
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” – Proverbs 17:22
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” – Proverbs 4:23
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3
“In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:6
“Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.”- Proverbs 16:3
“Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!” Luke 12:24 – Luke 12:24
Recommended contacts for prayer request and Bible study
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https://3abn.org/all-streams/3abn.html
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