If you want to understand the health of your heart, a calcium score test is one of the most critical assessments you can take. It is also known as a coronary artery calcium scan.
The test looks for calcium build-up in your coronary arteries. Too much calcium in these arteries can lead to blockages that increase your risk of a heart attack.
Understanding your calcium score and what it means can help you take control of your heart health and work toward a healthier future.
Let us explore what a calcium score is, the risks of a high score, and potential calcium score treatments.
What Is a Calcium Score, and How Is It Determined
A calcium score comes from a coronary artery calcium scan, which uses a type of X-ray called a CT scan. The scan captures images of your coronary arteries, which supply blood to your heart.
Doctors review these images for signs of calcified plaque. This build-up of calcium and other substances in the arteries is a warning sign of heart disease.
The test results are given as a number called your calcium score, which reflects the amount of calcium found in your arteries.
- A score of 0: No calcium is present. This result suggests a low risk of heart disease.
- A score between 1 to 10: Some calcium is present. There may be minimal signs of heart disease.
- A score between 11 to 100: Mild plaque build-up. Your risk of heart disease may be moderate.
- A score between 101 to 400: Plaque build-up is significant. Your risk of heart attack increases.
- A score above 400: There is extensive plaque in your arteries. This indicates a high risk of severe heart disease.
A worrisome calcium score is generally considered anything above 100. However, risk can vary depending on your age, gender, and other health factors. Thus, it is best to discuss your calcium score with a healthcare provider who specializes in heart disease.
Calcium Score by Age
It is important to note that acceptable calcium scores vary based on age. Younger individuals are expected to have lower or zero scores since plaque typically builds up with age. For example:
- The calcium score by age 20–39 should ideally be 0.
- Ages 40–59 may naturally have mild plaque, but scores above 100 suggest concern.
- Ages 60 and above might have slightly higher scores due to aging arteries.
Keeping a calcium score aligned with your age group is essential for maintaining long-term heart health.
Why Does a High Calcium Score Matter
A high calcium score means there is a significant amount of calcified plaque in your arteries. This hardening makes it harder for blood to flow to your heart. Restricted blood flow can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, or even a heart attack.
Over time, untreated plaque build-up can damage your arteries further. This condition is called atherosclerosis. It may lead to serious complications such as coronary artery disease, strokes, or even heart failure.
Factors That Contribute to a High Calcium Score
Many factors can increase your risk of developing calcified plaque in your coronary arteries, including these common ones.
Age and Gender
Calcium build-up tends to increase with age, and men are slightly more likely to have a higher score at an earlier age.
Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits
Diets high in saturated fats, smoking, and not exercising contribute to bad cholesterol levels and plaque build-up.
Family History
A family history of heart disease increases the risk of a high calcium score.
Pre-existing Health Conditions
Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are major contributors.
High Calcium Score Treatment Options
If you have a high calcium score by age, do not panic. While it is a sign of higher heart disease risk, there are still steps you can take under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Medications
Heart doctors often recommend medications to manage your cholesterol and reduce your overall cardiovascular risk. Drugs such as statins (e.g., Lipitor) help lower bad cholesterol, reducing the risk of plaque build-up.
Lifestyle Changes
The following lifestyle changes can also lower your calcium score by age.
Dietary Improvements
Focus on heart-healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like avocados.
Regular Exercise
Aim for moderate physical activity, like brisk walking, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Quit Smoking
Smoking damages your arteries and significantly contributes to plaque build-up.
Addressing Underlying Conditions
Managing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure is critical. Be diligent about taking prescribed medications and following up with your doctor.
Advanced Heart Treatments
For individuals with high calcium scores and severe symptoms, medical procedures may be necessary. These may include placing stents to open blocked arteries or undergoing a bypass surgery.
High Calcium Score Treatment in Boca Raton, FL
A calcium test for heart disease is one of the best tools for detecting and managing early signs of cardiovascular conditions. Knowing your calcium score provides vital insights, and acting on that information can save your life.
At the Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute in Boca Raton, we specialize in preventive cardiology and personalized care. From non-invasive testing to advanced procedures, our team helps you protect your heart health with compassion and expertise.
Call our team at (561) 235-5621 or schedule your consultation with Dr. Eli Levine or Dr. Michael Schechter using our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
