Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, often developing silently without symptoms. By the time warning signs like chest pain or shortness of breath appear, significant damage may already have occurred. A heart scan is a quick, non-invasive tool for early detection, helping you identify risks and take proactive measures to protect your heart health.
Thanks to modern imaging technology, heart scans take just 15-20 minutes and are completely painless. Providers like Craft Body Scan make them even more accessible with affordable options, including HSA compatibility. If you’ve been searching for a “heart scan near me,” understanding its benefits could be the first step toward saving your life.
What Is a Heart Scan?
A heart scan, also known as a coronary calcium scan, uses low-dose CT imaging to measure calcium buildup in your coronary arteries. This calcium buildup is often linked to plaque—a mix of cholesterol, fat, and other substances that can narrow or block arteries over time. Plaque buildup is a major risk factor for:
- Heart attacks
- Stroke
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
The scan generates a calcium score, which quantifies the amount of plaque buildup. This score helps doctors assess your risk for heart disease and create a prevention or treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Why It’s Effective:
- Quick: Takes just 15-20 minutes.
- Non-Invasive: No needles, medications, or discomfort.
- Accurate: Provides detailed images of coronary arteries for precise risk assessment.
How Heart Scans Work: A Simple, Painless Process
Many people delay health screenings due to misconceptions about the process, but heart scans are designed to be stress-free. Here’s what to expect:
- No Preparation Needed: Unlike other medical tests, there’s no need to fast or take special steps beforehand.
- The Scan: You’ll lie on a comfortable table while the CT scanner rotates around your chest, capturing high-resolution images of your heart. The process is quick and painless, lasting just 15-20 minutes.
- The Results: The scan produces a calcium score, offering a clear picture of your heart health.
Heart scans fit easily into your schedule, making them perfect for anyone looking to prioritize preventive care without disrupting their day.
Why Should You Get a Heart Scan?
A heart scan plays a crucial role in detecting early warning signs of heart disease. Even if you feel perfectly healthy, hidden plaque buildup can lead to serious complications down the line.
Key Benefits of a Heart Scan
- Early Detection: Identifies calcium buildup before symptoms appear, allowing for timely intervention.
- Personalized Risk Assessment: Your calcium score reveals your risk for heart attack or stroke.
- Targeted Prevention Plans: Understanding your risk empowers you to make lifestyle changes or start treatment to reduce plaque buildup.
- Peace of Mind: A low calcium score can reassure you about your heart health.
For individuals with risk factors, heart scans offer life-saving insights that support better decision-making about their health.
Who Should Consider a Heart Scan?
Heart scans aren’t necessary for everyone, but they can be life-changing for those at risk. You should consider a heart scan if you:
- Are over 40 years old
- Have a family history of heart disease or early heart attacks
- Have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes
- Are a current or former smoker
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle or have a poor diet
- Experience symptoms like chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or fatigue
Even without obvious symptoms, a heart scan can provide valuable insights. With Craft Body Scan’s quick appointments and HSA compatibility, it’s easier than ever to prioritize your heart health.
Understanding Your Heart Scan Results: What Is a Calcium Score?
A calcium score measures the amount of plaque buildup in your coronary arteries. Here’s what the results mean:
| Calcium Score | What It Means | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | No calcium detected—very low risk of heart disease. | Very low |
| 1-100 | Mild plaque buildup—low to moderate risk of developing heart disease. | Low to moderate |
| 101-300 | Moderate plaque buildup—higher risk of heart disease, requiring lifestyle changes or treatment. | Moderate to high |
| 300+ | Significant plaque buildup—high risk of heart disease, requiring immediate medical intervention. | High |
Your calcium score helps you and your doctor create a plan to reduce risk through lifestyle adjustments, medication, or further tests.
How Early Detection Saves Lives
Heart disease develops gradually, often without symptoms. By the time signs appear, such as chest pain or fatigue, plaque buildup may already be advanced. Heart scans detect these early warning signs, giving you the opportunity to take action before serious complications arise.
Benefits of Early Detection:
- Improves Survival Rates: Early intervention reduces the likelihood of heart attack or stroke.
- Lowers Health Care Costs: Preventive care is far less expensive than treating advanced heart disease.
- Empowers Informed Decisions: Knowing your risk allows you to take control of your health.
Research shows that individuals who undergo early heart scans significantly reduce their long-term cardiovascular risks.
Why Choose Craft Body Scan for Your Heart Scan?
When searching for a “heart scan near me,” choosing the right provider matters. Craft Body Scan offers:
- Quick, 15-20 Minute Appointments: Perfect for busy schedules.
- HSA Compatibility: Cost-effective options for preventive care.
- State-of-the-Art Imaging Technology: Ensures accurate and reliable results.
- Experienced Physicians: Specializing in early detection and personalized care.
Craft Body Scan is committed to making heart screenings accessible, convenient, and affordable.
How to Prepare for a Heart Scan
Preparing for your heart scan is simple:
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Loose-fitting, metal-free clothing is best.
- Avoid Caffeine and Smoking: For a few hours before your scan, as they can affect heart rate.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself time to complete any necessary paperwork.
- Relax: The scan is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive.
Craft Body Scan’s patient-first approach ensures a stress-free experience that delivers actionable insights.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health Today
Heart disease doesn’t wait, and neither should you. A heart scan is a quick, non-invasive tool that can detect early warning signs and help you take control of your heart health.
Craft Body Scan offers 15-20 minute appointments, HSA compatibility, and expert care to make preventive health easy and accessible. Don’t wait for symptoms—schedule your heart scan today and invest in your future well-being.
