I had a bit of a scare in June, but all is A-OK! But I definitely learned a lesson. I went for my annual physical and I had slightly elevated blood pressure. It has been slightly elevated for the last three years, but not high enough to warrant medication. My doctor recommended I have a calcium scoring test done due to my blood pressure and the fact I have heart disease in my family. The calcium scoring test is a “non-invasive test using a CT scan to measure the amount of calcified plaque in your coronary arteries. The test measures your calcium score, which helps your doctor calculate your risk of coronary artery disease (CAD)-related events such as a heart attack or stroke.”
My results came back extremely high indicating more than normal calcified plaque build up. I was stunned because I exercise regularly, eat well, very low cholesterol and at a good weight. My doctor recommended I see a cardiologist. I had a stress test and a carotid ultrasound. Everything came back just fine. My cardiologist said he has seen patients come in with a high calcium score and be just fine and others having issues. Also, he has seen patients with a low calcium score having heart issues.
The recommendation was to monitor my blood pressure and of course if I had any other concerning symptoms to go back for another checkup. So far so good. The moral of this story is if you’re not feeling right or you have slightly concerning test results; have it checked out. Moreover, no matter how good of shape you’re in, no one gets away with not having any potential medical issues.
Take good care of yourself!