What is a Calcium Score?

A calcium score represents how much calcium is found in the coronary arteries. Because calcium is present within the arteries of unhealthy hearts, doctors use a coronary calcium scan to predict potential heart-related problems. In just a few minutes, this scan can accurately measure how much calcium is present. A patient should strive for a calcium score as close to zero as possible. A score of 50 to 100 might indicate a health risk; anything over 100 is considered a very serious sign of heart problems.

Calcium Scan

In the past, a huge emphasis was placed on a patient's cholesterol score in the battle against heart disease. However, that isn't the only useful score for predicting potential problems. Doctors also recommend a coronary calcium scan in order to determine a patient's calcium score. This test should be performed on those with existing heart disease or who may be at high risk of developing heart disease.

Risks

Although a patient's calcium score can be determined in minutes, there are some risks involved with the coronary calcium scan. The procedure uses electron beam computerized tomography, which exposes the patient to a lot of radiation. This amount of radiation would be equal to having a few dozen chest X-rays done at once. Subsequently, the scan can increase a patient's chances of developing cancer and could cause birth defects if used on a pregnant patient.

Preparation

Measuring the calcium score within the coronary arteries is risky, so it's important to be properly prepared. The risks should be weighed against the benefits when considering the scan. A physician should review the patient's entire medical history, as well as the patient's lifestyle habits. Smokers, for instance, may be poor candidates for the procedure because of the increased risk of cancer. If a coronary calcium scan seems like the best choice for predicting heart-related problems, the patient is ready to begin.

Procedure

The procedure is painless and noninvasive. There's no need for medications, incisions or shots. The scan involves lying down on a table and sliding into a large X-ray machine. Some patients might feel a bit claustrophobic during the procedure, but it lasts only a few minutes. X-rays are taken of the internal organs, and calcium within the coronary arteries is quickly measured.

Results

After the coronary calcium scan is complete, a doctor will review the results. A calcium score of zero is the ideal result, although a slightly higher number might be fine if the patient is in otherwise good condition. With a calcium score of 50 to 100, there may be cause for concern depending on the patient's medical history. However, anything over 100 is a serious sign of heart-related problems. Calcification appears in unhealthy arteries and, depending on the level of calcium, the condition can be improved with lifestyle changes, medications and/or surgery. Some doctors might recommend more comprehensive testing after a calcium score is measured.