How Serious Are Coronary Artery Calcifications?

Higher CAC scores directly correlate with increased risk of heart disease-induced events. Learn what calcium in your arteries means for your heart health.

Overview

While many associate calcium with bone strength, this chemical our body naturally produces can sometimes turn against us. Higher CAC scores directly correlate to an increased risk of heart disease-induced events. The risk of heart attacks in patients with high levels of coronary artery calcification is comparable to patients with diagnosed heart disease, making diagnosis a priority.

What Happens if You Have Too Much Calcium in Your Arteries?

When calcium builds up in the heart's arteries, it indicates the presence of atherosclerosis, where fat and cholesterol form plaque in the arteries, causing them to narrow and making it difficult to pump blood. These narrow arteries can trigger heart attacks or strokes. Calcium deposits make arteries less flexible, contribute to blood clots and ruptures, and can complicate life-saving procedures like angioplasty or stent placement.

What Is the Best Time to Check Coronary Calcium Score?

The ideal candidates for coronary artery calcification tests are those in the intermediate risk category who have a 10% to 20% chance of experiencing a heart disease-induced event over the next ten years. This includes people with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol or blood pressure, smoking habits, or a sedentary lifestyle. The ideal age to undergo a coronary artery calcium scan is 42 years old for men and around 58 years old for women, while diabetic patients are recommended to be tested earlier.

Conclusion

Coronary artery calcification is a serious issue that people cannot outwardly detect. Symptoms that may indicate it include chest pain, fatigue, and numb hands and feet, though individuals with coronary artery calcification might not experience symptoms for years. The only way to be certain is to get tested. At Healthy Living Heart and Vein, we offer CAC testing and other diagnostics to identify heart disease early and guide treatment.