Recently JAMA http://jama.jamanetwork.com reported on a new test which “has strong predictive value for incident cardiovascular disease (CVD) events.” *
“Having a calcium scans is very much like having any x-ray. You will lie on an x-ray table, wires will be attached to your chest to record an ECG and the table will slide in to the scanner. You will be asked to hold your breath for a minute or so, so that a clear image can be obtained. The resulting computerized x-ray image will be examined for the telltale “white spots” that indicate calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, and the amount of calcium will be quantified into a score.” **
If you are undergoing a cardiac risk evaluation ask your primary care physician and/ or cardiologist about a non-invasive calcium scan.
To learn more highlight and click on open hyperlink
* *http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1780017 **http://heartdisease.about.com/od/assessyourrisk/a/calcium_scans.htm
Note: This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.