Is your Heart giving you the Panic Signals, Find out with the Help of a Coronary Calcium Scan?

Heart disease is one of the leading killers in the United States today. There are numerous reasons that contribute to the development of a heart disease that may differ in various cases. Coronary heart disease is the common cardiovascular disease reported that is due to the building of plaque in the arteries of the heart. Calcium is an important component that may build up on this plaque is generally verified with the help of coronary calcium scan.

The section below helps to clear the various aspects of this scan

Why is the coronary artery calcium scan done on an individual?

The coronary calcium scan is carried out on an individual in cases where there are risk factors associated with heart disease. It can be also done for those at medium risk i.e. of 10%-20% risk of developing a heart condition in the future. It is generally conducted for those with a family history of heart disease, hypertension, obesity, smoking, diabetes and to women after menopause, men above 40 years of age and young people showing abnormal symptoms.

How is this scan performed?

This scan is usually carried out as a type of CT scan. This involves small discs placed on the chest of an individual with wires that are connected to the EKG machine that measures the electrical impulses of the heart. When the heartbeat stabilizes, the CT scan is performed on the patient. The patient slides in to the CT scanner that is a large doughnut shaped machine where the patient has to hold his/her breath for 20-30 seconds when the pictures are taken. A typical test takes around 5-10 minutes.

What are the normal calcium scores in an Individual?

In most cases, the cardiologists have a candid discussion with an individual once the test results are out. The coronary calcium scan of an individual can score can vary in a wide range and is rated according to the patients age. The risk of developing a heart disease is proportional to the score. This means the higher the score, the higher is the risk of an individual of developing heart disease.

A Guide to the Symptoms of Heart Disease and finding an appropriate Cardiologist in NYC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), has estimated the number of adults with diagnosed heart disease is 21.7 million. The figures are startling, as every year the number of people diagnosed with heart conditions increases dramatically. New York also has many patients with heart disease including “silent” heart disease, and many with potential for a health catastrophe due to their unhealthy lifestyles. Patients with heart trouble can get help from a NYC cardiologist that conducts tests to diagnose a heart condition and guide treatment for it.

Let us understand when an individual should seek help from a cardiologist, and how to find the appropriate cardiologist. If one thinks one is having a heart attack you should call 9-1-1 immediately for assistance. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease and this may lead to a heart attack. Lifestyle changes and medical treatment can reduce the risk of heart attack. Each year about 785,000 Americans have an initial heart attack according to the American Heart Association.

An individual should seek help from a NYC Cardiologist if experiencing any of the following symptoms -

1. Shortness of breath – It is usual to have irregular breathing when involved in heavy physical activity such as dancing, walking or running. But if one experiences shortness of breath in normal circumstances, then it is important to seek medical intervention.
2. Chest pain- It is common to experience chronic chest pain or indigestion, when there is acid reflux or gas in the system. One should have at least an initial heart evaluation to make sure the symptom is not heart related.
3. A cardiologist should also be consulted if; one suffers from blood circulation related issues, which may result when the heart is unable to pump blood properly.
4. Heart attack issues – If an individual has had a heart attack before, then a cardiologist should be consulted on a regular basis. A cardiologist can be consulted to evaluate risk for a repeat heart attack.

The following points should be considered by those, looking for the services of a cardiologist.

1. The internet may be very useful when searching for a local cardiologist with a good reputation. The online reviews left by other patients may help you in choosing the appropriate cardiologist.
2. Extensive experience, in dealing with issues of the heart is very important when seeking a cardiologist, along with the delivering of consistent results in various heart related procedures.
3. The cardiologist should be associated with a health care facility, and should be easily approachable in case of any doubts.