Just found out my calcium score is 474. Next steps uncertain.

Why can't you have an angiogram done? That is the next step. You are not going to get answers any other way. I would see an interventional cardiologist if your current one is hesitant. My score was 240, and my cardio ordered an angiogram right away.

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...

Hi I have the similar situation 5 months ago when I found out my CAC is 378! I am a very active person and fit which shocked me as well. My Echo and stress tests are normal. Went to see two cardiologists and both of them told me that I should continue to be active and eat healthy. Now I am on Crestor 40mg and baby Aspirin in order to lower the LDL to below 50. My last LDL was 55 from 89 three month ago. Next week I will see my PC and repeat the tests again.
You will get over this also just take your meds and keep on living!!

.

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.

I’m 69 and my score was in the 600,s. I just dragged a buck out of the woods 3/4 of a mile with my brother with no problems. We did take rest breaks. I’m on lipator and zetia.

I do not tolerate statins. I am on Repatha and Nexletol. My LDL is not where they want it but it works and no side effects. Advantage of Nexletol is that it doesn’t raise blood glucose. My A1C has been 5.0 for 2 years. Worth the extra dollars for the medication. (Nexletol came on the market in 2020 during the pandemic.)

Sending cyber hugs and prayers.

Thea

My score at the age of 67 was 397. Went for every test except angiogram and passed all with flying colours. Because of my my father passing away at 48 and his brothers within the same age group I was sent for an angiogram. I had a 70% blockage in my LAD. Two stents were placed in the LAD during the angiogram. I avoided a heart attack and damage to my heart or worse.

I had very similar symptoms and my doctor recommended an angio, which found a 90% blockage. Stents were placed.

Get this checked. It may save your life. The cath procedure was not painful and literally took 20m, excl prep time.

Thank you for the feedback. I agree, and not sure why the hesitancy to do one. I have sought a second opinion.

Thanks. Hopefully I can get my activity back to normal soon.