Knowing Is Half the Battle

Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women. According to the American Heart Association, approximately every 40 seconds an American will have a heart attack. Unfortunately, in its earliest and most treatable stages, heart disease rarely reveals itself through symptoms. For many people, a heart attack is the first clue of any heart trouble.

During the test, images are taken with a specially equipped computed tomography or CT scanner. These images measure the amount of calcium in your coronary arteries. Calcium deposits can indicate plaque build-up and the presence of heart disease. A board-certified cardiologist and radiologist assess the results and give you a calcium score. A higher-than-expected calcium score for your age and gender has been associated with a higher chance of a future heart attack, stroke, and death from heart disease and stroke. 

Your calcium score will be sent to you and your primary health care provider. Based on the amount of calcium found by the Heart CT, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to lower your risk – such as quitting smoking, changing your diet, and exercising more. Your doctor may also recommend medication or additional testing for diagnosing and managing advanced heart disease.

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Every moment of your life depends on a strong, healthy heart. The Premier Health cardiology and vascular services team is here to help you, each beat of the way, with prevention, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation services in our hospitals, outpatient centers, and medical offices across Southwest Ohio.