Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, often striking without warning. Many people don’t realize they are at risk until they experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or even a heart attack. The good news is that modern imaging allows physicians to detect signs of heart disease early–before symptoms even appear. One of the most effective tools for this is a cardiac calcium scoring exam, also known as a coronary calcium scan. At Iowa Radiology, we believe imaging is only the beginning. By providing clarity about heart health, we help patients and their providers make proactive decisions that can prevent life-threatening events.
What Is Cardiac Calcium Scoring?
Cardiac calcium scoring uses a specialized CT scan to measure the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances that build up inside the arteries over time. When plaque hardens, it becomes calcified and can be detected by CT imaging. The test generates a “calcium score,” which reflects the extent of plaque buildup. The higher the score, the greater the risk of coronary artery disease and heart attack.
Why Early Detection Matters for Heart Disease
Heart disease often develops silently over many years. By the time symptoms appear, arteries may already be significantly narrowed or blocked. Cardiac calcium scoring allows physicians to detect plaque buildup early, when lifestyle changes and medications can have the greatest impact. Patients who know their risk can take steps to lower it through diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and medications that control cholesterol or blood pressure.
Who Should Consider a Cardiac Calcium Score?
Not everyone needs this test, but it can be valuable for patients at intermediate risk of heart disease. You may be a candidate if you are between 40 and 70 years old and have one or more of the following risk factors:
- Family history of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking history
- Overweight or obesity
For patients who already have known heart disease or symptoms like chest pain, other imaging and diagnostic tests may be more appropriate.
What to Expect During the Exam
A cardiac calcium scoring exam is quick, noninvasive, and painless. You will lie on a CT scanner table while the machine takes images of your heart. No contrast dye or injections are needed. The entire scan usually takes less than 10 minutes. Afterward, a radiologist interprets the images and calculates your calcium score.
Understanding Your Results
Calcium scores are typically reported as:
- 0: No calcified plaque, low risk of heart attack.
- 1–99: Mild plaque, some risk.
- 100–399: Moderate plaque, higher risk.
- 400 or above: Extensive plaque, high risk of a heart attack.
Your provider will discuss what your score means in the context of your overall health. In some cases, further testing or more aggressive treatment may be recommended. In others, the result may provide reassurance and motivation to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
How Iowa Radiology Helps
At Iowa Radiology, we perform cardiac calcium scoring exams using advanced CT technology that produces detailed, accurate images with minimal radiation exposure. Our radiologists interpret results with precision and communicate findings directly to your provider, ensuring you receive timely information about your heart health. We view cardiac calcium scoring as an important tool in prevention, helping patients and their providers act before a serious cardiac event occurs.
The Benefits of Proactive Heart Health
Knowing your calcium score empowers you to take control of your heart health. Benefits of this screening include:
- Detecting risk before symptoms appear.
- Guiding treatment decisions, such as whether to start cholesterol-lowering medications.
- Motivating lifestyle changes that can improve heart health.
- Providing peace of mind for patients with a family history of heart disease.
Moving Forward with Clarity
Heart disease remains a serious health concern, but it doesn’t have to come as a surprise. Cardiac calcium scoring offers valuable insight into your risk, allowing you and your provider to take preventive steps that can save your life. At Iowa Radiology, we are committed to helping patients move forward with confidence in their heart health.
