What Calcium in Your Arteries Really Means
Understanding Coronary Artery Calcification and Risk Scores
A coronary calcium score is one of the most effective, noninvasive tools for understanding long-term heart health. At Naugatuck Valley Radiological Associates (NVRA), we believe knowledge is power, and this test gives you a clear, measurable way to assess your risk before symptoms ever appear.
Whether you have a family history of heart disease or just want to be proactive, a calcium scoring scan is a smart step toward informed, preventive care.
Why Coronary Artery Calcification Sounds Scary at First
Common Fears About Heart Disease and Blockages
When people hear "calcium in the arteries," they often think of clogged arteries or an imminent heart attack. But in most cases, calcification develops slowly, and early detection can be life-saving.
How Family History and Risk Factors Shape Your Health Outlook
If your parents had heart disease, or if you’ve been managing high cholesterol, diabetes, or high blood pressure, you may already be at increased risk. That’s why imaging like coronary calcium scoring is so valuable: it detects early signs of buildup before symptoms appear.
The Clarity That Comes With Understanding Calcium Scores
How Calcium Builds Up Over Time in the Arteries
Calcium can accumulate in the walls of your coronary arteries as part of the body’s response to inflammation and plaque buildup. This process, known as coronary artery calcification (CAC), is common, especially with age or risk factors.
Why a Calcium Score Helps Predict Future Cardiovascular Risk
A coronary artery calcium score doesn’t diagnose disease; it predicts the likelihood of future cardiac events. The higher the score, the greater the risk, which helps your doctor make informed decisions about prevention and treatment.
What a Coronary Calcium Scan Shows
The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score Explained
This quick, noninvasive CT scan captures images of your coronary arteries and calculates your total calcium score. It’s fast, accurate, and involves no needles or contrast.
What Different Score Ranges Mean for Your Heart Health
Your score is given as a number that reflects the total area and density of calcified plaque:
- 0 – No calcium; very low risk
- 1–99 – Mild evidence; low to moderate risk
- 100–399 – Moderate evidence; higher risk
- 400+ – Extensive calcification; significant risk
Even if your score isn’t zero, catching it early means you can take action.
Who Should Consider a Calcium Scoring Scan?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you’re between the ages of 40 and 70 and have one or more of the following risk factors:
Patients With a Family History of Heart Attacks
Heart disease can run in families. A calcium scan can give you clarity on whether you’ve inherited silent early warning signs.
Individuals With High Cholesterol or High Blood Pressure
These conditions can damage artery walls over time, increasing the chance of plaque buildup and calcification.
Patients With Diabetes or Obesity
Both conditions raise the risk of cardiovascular disease. A calcium score can help identify risk even before symptoms start.
Smokers or Those With a History of Smoking
Smoking accelerates plaque buildup. If you’ve smoked in the past or currently do, a scan can offer insight into potential damage.
People Living a Sedentary Lifestyle
Lack of physical activity can contribute to poor heart health. If you're not as active as you'd like to be, a scan can offer motivation and guidance.
What to Expect During Your Coronary Calcium Scan at NVRA
How Long Does the Scan Take?
The scan itself takes about 5–10 minutes, and you’ll be in and out of the office in under 30.
No Needles, No Contrast, No Pain
There are no injections or dyes involved. You simply lie on the scan table, and our technologist will guide you through every step.
Understanding Your Results
How Radiologists Assign Your CAC Score
At NVRA, all coronary calcium scans are interpreted by a board-certified radiologist. Your score is calculated based on the area and density of calcium found in the coronary arteries.
Examples of Common Score Ranges
We’ll help your referring physician interpret what your results mean and how they may influence your care plan. You may not need immediate treatment, but the information is powerful for long-term health planning.
How Calcium Scores Help Prevent Heart Disease
Identifying Risk Before Symptoms Appear
The value of a calcium score is that it can identify risk before chest pain or other symptoms begin, giving you a head start on prevention.
How Scores Influence Lifestyle and Medication Decisions
Depending on your score, your provider may recommend:
- Starting or adjusting cholesterol-lowering medications
- Making specific dietary and exercise changes
- Regular monitoring to track progression
When Doctors Recommend Repeat Scans
If you’re low-risk, you may not need another scan for 5 years or more. If your score is moderate or high, your provider may recommend closer follow-up or additional testing.
Why Patients Choose NVRA for Coronary Calcium Scoring
Accurate Imaging and Board-Certified Radiologists
Our imaging equipment is ACR-accredited, and all scans are interpreted by board-certified physicians. That means precise results you and your provider can trust.
Transparent Self-Pay Pricing and No Hidden Fees
We know cost matters. NVRA offers coronary calcium scoring for just $100 as part of our self-pay pricing, making preventive screening affordable and accessible to more patients.
Convenient Locations Throughout the Region
With locations in Southbury, Waterbury, and Prospect, getting your scan is quick and convenient. Find a location near you today.
Take the First Step Toward Protecting Your Heart
If you’ve ever wondered where your heart health really stands, a coronary calcium scan may be the simple, proactive step you need.
Ask your doctor if a coronary artery calcium score is right for you, then contact NVRA to schedule your test.
