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Just found out my calcium score is 474. Next steps uncertain.
Heart & Blood Health | Last Active: 1 hour ago | Replies (14)Comment receiving replies
I had a nuclear stress test, which my doc said can detect blockages greater than ~75%. I don't know how precise these really are but I "passed" in spite of my 1000 CAC score. Only difference from a standard stress test is you get an isotope infusion and then some images taken during and after the procedure. This is what they do when you don't have sufficient symptoms to warrant an angiogram. Personally, I'd rather just have an angiogram so I really know what is going on. But, insurance...
I am also on baby aspirin and rosuvastatin and exercise hard. The doc has not told me to slack off, but sometimes I wonder...
Replies to "I had a nuclear stress test, which my doc said can detect blockages greater than ~75%...."
Thanks. Hopefully I can get my activity back to normal soon.
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I had *no* symptoms other than a calcium score of 240, but the calcium scan showed an artery that was completely blocked. What happened is that my body used 'corollary arteries' to essentially create its own bypass around the blockage. I'm a runner, so the doctor said that is likely how it happened. I had an angiogram, and the doctor didn't even want to put a stent in. He said my blood flow from these alternate paths was fine. The angiogram was important for them to see exactly what was going on.
I'm currently taking baby aspirin and 10mg rosuvastatin, but doc said I could and should continue running. I don't know if I'm going to race any more 5Ks at this point, but I've been out running for 30-35 minutes nice and easy, and I feel fine.
I'm a big believer in having tests and seeing exactly what is happening, but I get that insurance can be a problem. I'm on Medicare with Medigap, so it's generally not an issue.