Health & Fitness

Does a cardiac CT scan make sense?

Is a heart CT scan worth it?

If you’re looking to get a cardiac CT scan in Santa Fe, you may be wondering if it’s worth getting one done. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids (especially water) and eat healthy foods that are low in sodium. If your symptoms do not improve after 3-4 days, contact your doctor immediately. They may change your treatment plan. claustrophobia (fear of small spaces), and chest pain due to stress or lying flat during the exam; most people tolerate this procedure well. A heart CT scan is use to view your heart and blood vessels. It can diagnose birth defects, buildup of plaque that may be blocking arteries, and tumors.

What is a heart CT scan


A heart CT scan is an imaging test that uses x-rays and computer technology to create detail pictures of your heart and blood vessels.
A CT scan will not give you an exact diagnosis. It’s most often use to rule out other possible diagnoses as well as to provide more information about what is going on with your heart if doctors suspect there may be a problem. A heart CT scan can help your doctor:

  • diagnose birth defects of the heart
  • find out if you have plaque buildup in your arteries
  • check for tumors in or around the heart
  • see how well your treatments are working
    A heart CT scan is usually done as an outpatient procedure. This means you can go home the same day. The entire test takes about 30 minutes.

Who should get this type of test?


A heart CT scan is recommend for people who have a family history of heart disease, are over the age of 65, or have symptoms of heart disease. The test is also recommend for people who have had a previous heart attack or stroke. The CT Heart Scan Santa Fe can help diagnose blockages in the arteries, tumors, and birth defects. It can also be use to view blood flow and see if there is enough blood getting to your heart.

If you’re considering getting this type of test, talk with your doctor about whether this would be appropriate for you base on your specific health condition(s).

How do you prepare for the test?


You should not eat or drink for four hours before the test. You will be ask to remove any jewelry or clothing that might interfere with the test. An IV will be insert into your arm to give you contrast material. You will lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner. The scanner rotates around you and takes pictures of your heart. The test usually takes about 30 minutes. Your doctor may need to review the images in more detail so you may have to wait for results.
Although there are risks associate with this type of testing such as exposure to radiation, possible allergic reactions from contrast materials.
Do I recommend it? Yes! It is one way doctors can find serious problems like block arteries which could lead to a stroke or death in some cases!

What happens during the test?


After your procedure, you will need to rest for a few hours. You may experience some mild discomfort and bruising. You will be able to go home the same day. Follow-up care is important. You will need to take it easy for a few days and avoid strenuous activity. Your doctor will likely prescribe medication to help with any pain or discomfort. You should make an appointment to see your doctor in 1-2 weeks so they can check on your progress.
Heart disease is a common condition affecting nearly 20% of Americans over age 65. Although there are many treatments available, sometimes more invasive procedures such as angioplasty and bypass surgery are necessary. There are risks associate with these procedures as well, but there’s always the chance that they might save your life!

Follow-up instructions after your procedure


If your doctor recommends a heart CT scan, be sure to ask about the risks and benefits. The CT Heart Scan Santa Fe is a non-invasive, low-dose procedure that can help diagnose problems with your heart and blood vessels. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks involve. Be sure to discuss these with your doctor before proceeding. After the procedure, you may be ask to avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours and to drink plenty of fluids. You should also follow up with your doctor as soon as possible to discuss the results of the scan. If an abnormal area was found during the scan, you will need additional imaging tests or surgery to find out what’s causing it.