What is it?
A heart scan or coronary calcium scan is a non-intrusive and a special type of x-ray of heart vessels with which health care providers can ascertain the risk of worsening or developing heart disease. With this scan, a better picture of the heart vessels is obtained to identify any calcium plaques and to further measure them to discern the level of risk of heart disease. A heart scan can also help identify coronary artery disease before the occurrence of any signs and symptoms (Staff, 2021).
Who should consider this scan?
The test typically is not recommended for men younger than 40 or women younger than 50. It is most useful for those with a known “moderate” risk of heart disease or for those whose risk is uncertain. The amount of calcium a heart scan detects — when coupled with other information, such as your age, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and tobacco use — gives your provider important information regarding your overall risk for heart disease.
What does the heart scan result mean?
The calcium score ranges from 0 to 400. The lower the calcium score for this test, the lower the risk of any severe heart disease. A score of zero means no calcium is seen in the heart. It suggests a low chance of developing a heart attack in the future. A score between 100 to 300 means that you have moderate plaque deposits in the artery which is obstructing the blood flow of the heart, thereby increasing your risk of having a heart attack. A score greater than 300 is a sign of severe disease and heart attack risk. The higher the score, the greater the risk of having coronary artery disease or a heart attack in the future (Calcium-Score Screening Heart Scan, 2021).
Who is at risk for coronary artery disease?
People who have a family history of heart disease are susceptible to developing coronary artery disease. Other factors that can increase the risk of coronary artery disease include tobacco smoking, a physically inactive lifestyle, being overweight, and unhealthy eating habits (Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), 2021).
How can vitamin K2 help reduce your risks for coronary artery disease?
Vitamin K2 intake can help in lowering the occurrence of fatal heart diseases by slowing down the calcification progression in arteries and valves, reducing arterial stiffness, lowering the incidence of diabetes, and therefore, it can help in reducing the danger of coronary artery disease, and cardiovascular mortality (Essa Hariri1, 2021).
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
© Dr. Dennis D. Walker 2022. All Rights Reserved