HeartView CT: Finding Problems Before They Happen
Clogged arteries are one of the most common health problems that affect Americans as they age. Plaque builds up on the artery walls and can reduce or even block blood flow to the body. Many people don’t know their arteries are clogged until serious complications occur.
But what if you could find out about them before they become a problem?
Atherosclerosis, or the narrowing of the artery due to plaque buildup, can increase risk of heart attack, stroke, and even death. But with early detection methods, you can find out about clogged arteries and take care of them before serious problems occur. Oklahoma Heart Hospital’s HeartView CT is a great option for early detection.
The early warning system
Computerized tomography (CT) is one of the most sensitive approaches to artery disease, and it’s a non-invasive procedure that provides a picture of your circulatory system. A HeartView CT at Oklahoma Heart Hospital takes about 10 minutes, and it shows the presence of plaque in your arteries plus the location and full extent of any blockages.
This test is also known as a heart scan or a calcium score screening. You’ll receive a calcium score, which evaluates your overall risk level and helps you figure out what lifestyle changes or treatments may be necessary for your heart health. High coronary calcium means a higher risk of heart attack or stroke in the future.
There are a few factors that might raise your risk, including smoking, history of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, age, and sedentary lifestyle. A physician will read the calcium score, assess your risk, and then recommend next steps to improve your heart health.
Staying ahead of circulatory system problems
If you’re worried about your overall heart health, it’s worth your time to get tested for arterial plaque. A CT test is one of the best ways to screen for problems.
Not all types of artery issues will show up on this scan, so you should still consult a doctor if you have risk factors or a family history of heart disease, regardless of your scan results. The CT test isn’t absolute in predicting the risk of heart attack or stroke, but it is a good indicator.
Oklahoma ranks second in the nation in deaths due to cardiovascular disease, and many people die without knowing that they even have a problem. Take advantage of Oklahoma Heart Hospital’s HeartView CT technology to assess your risk before serious heart problems occur. Contact Oklahoma Heart Hospital today to schedule your HeartView CT appointment.