Really bummed out (calcium test score)

Posted by cantbelievethis @cantbelievethis, Jul 7, 2023

I am 70 years old and swim 3-4 times per week. I don't smoke or drink. I have been so grateful for my good health. There is a family history of cardiac disease and I have had routine screenings over the years. I have taken routine stress tests over the year and they came back alright. Also have had a test done on neck over the years(carotid artery) a few times to see if there is any clogging (routine) and it came back ok. A couple of other routine screenings. I am not sure what but I know we did things. We recently did a calcium score test as a screening and my score came back 580. I am sad beyond words. I am also angry at myself and blaming myself even though I can't figure out how this happened. And that is not helping! I was so pleased with my health. Now this. I am heartbroken. p.s. Doctor is starting me on Lipitor, aspirin each day and I will be going for a stress test. Any words of support or encouragement would be appreciated. I am having a hard time coping with this since I thought I was so healthy. Thank you.

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writer418 | @writer418 | Jul 10, 2023

@cantbelievethis I was as bummed out as you. 70 with a score of 642. I thought i had a few months to live but now I see that as ridiculous. Educate yourself as many here are telling you. Read books, and study up. A few pieces of advice from someone who did all that. You need to go to a cardiologist and have a nuclear stress test etc. Mine told me blood flow was normal and not to worry. He also put me on the gold standard for high cholesterol care (I’ve read a lot). A statin yes but also a PSK9 inhibitor like Praluent or Repatha. Both are injectables you take twice a month but they will knock down your overall cholesterol and LDL cholesterol like you wouldn’t believe. Take heart (pun intended). Go to a cardiologist, educate yourself, get on some good drugs and make lifestyle changes …. You will live a long life my friend.

alaskat | @alaskat | Jul 10, 2023

Statins harden the soft plaque. It is the soft kind that if it loosens into the blood stream can block blood flow to the heart.

casey1329 | @casey1329 | Jul 10, 2023

In reply to @cantbelievethis "Thank you so much for this kind and supportive reply. I appreciate it. I mean that!..." + (show)

There are several lipitor type drugs. Maybe, you would have no side effects with another statin...good luck !

tylindy | @tylindy | Jul 11, 2023

In reply to @writer418 "@cantbelievethis I was as bummed out as you. 70 with a score of 642. I thought..." + (show)

@writer418 First, I wanted to tell you that reading your comments were just what I needed this morning. I have been unable to get much reassurance from my PCP ( went on vacation right after my CAC test) and my anxiety has been spinning out of control. So, thanks for sharing your experience and offering hope of living a full life with this disease if proper steps are taken.

markdeegan | @markdeegan | Jul 11, 2023

For age 70 that is fine!!!
Use a statin and it will go up. Because Statins harden the plaque into calcium. That is better because it is not loose and causing blockages…

daniel777 | @daniel777 | Jul 12, 2023

In reply to @markdeegan "For age 70 that is fine!!! Use a statin and it will go up. Because Statins..." + (show)

The development of arterial atherosclerosis may occur when deposits of cholesterol and plaque accumulate at a tear in the inner lining of an artery. As the deposits harden and occlude the arterial lumen, blood flow to distant tissues decreases and a clot may become lodged, completely blocking the artery.

madison1234 | @madison1234 | Jul 12, 2023

I’m sure we are all standing with you in solidarity and rooting for you to get beyond this matter causing your distress. All the best to you.

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