Channel: Lee Health

Category: Education

Tags: plaqueheart attackcalcium scoreexercisecalcium scoring screening examinationscreening toolradiologistcardiac arrestcardiologistheartnarrowing of arteriescoronary diseasemild plaquecoronary arteriesscreening testheart diseasedietmoderate plaquesevere calcified plaquecat scanlowering blood pressurepressure-like chest-painminimal plaquecardiac

Description: A heart attack can change your life in seconds, but modern technology can tell us if one may be on the horizon.” This examination is a great screening tool,” said Lee Health Radiologist Dr. Nikhil Rajadhyaksha. A calcium scoring screening is a simple test that your primary care provider or cardiologist can order. “When we read the calcium scoring screening examination we’re able to give a number of a calcium score. Depending on the number, it could mean there’s mild plaque, minimal plaque, moderate plaque, or severe calcified plaque there,” said Dr. Rajadhyaksha. The exam takes about 15 minutes using a CAT Scan. Rajadhyaksha said a low score means you’re in the clear, but if you have a high score, “The more calcium deposits you have, the higher risk you are of having narrowing in the coronary arteries of your heart as well as having the potential risk of a heart attack in the future.” There are steps you can take to reduce your score. “Diet modification, reducing your weight, stop smoking, lower your blood pressure,” said Dr. Rajadhyaksha. The test is best for those between 40 and 70 with an increased risk for heart disease, but it’s not for everyone. “Patients who have had prior intervention, or patients that are having symptoms of a coronary disease like pressure-like chest pain, or shortness of breath, or pain that radiates through their arm.” Dr. Rajadhyaksha said other tests would be best for those patients. Your primary care provider will know what’s best for your specific situation. View More Health Matters video segments at LeeHealth.org/Healthmatters Lee Health in Fort Myers, FL is the largest network of health care facilities in Southwest Florida and is highly respected for its expertise, innovation and quality of care. For more than 100 years, we’ve been providing our community with personalized preventative health services and primary care to highly specialized care services and robotic assisted surgeries. Lee Health - Caring People. Inspiring Care. Visit LeeHealth.org