A calcium scoring scan, also known as a Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scan, is a non-invasive imaging test designed to assess heart health. This diagnostic procedure provides insights into the presence and extent of calcified plaque within the coronary arteries. To ensure the most accurate results from this scan, specific preparation steps are necessary, including avoiding certain activities like physical exercise.
Understanding the Calcium Scoring Scan
A calcium scoring scan employs computed tomography (CT) technology to visualize the coronary arteries. It identifies and quantifies calcified plaque, which is a marker of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries. The presence and amount of this plaque indicate an individual’s risk for developing heart disease. The scan helps assess the risk of future cardiac events before symptoms manifest.
How Exercise Affects Scan Results
Exercise can significantly impact the clarity and accuracy of a calcium scoring scan due to its physiological effects on the heart. When an individual engages in physical activity, their heart rate naturally increases. This elevated heart rate leads to more motion of the heart during the imaging process. A rapidly beating heart creates what are known as “motion artifacts” on the CT images. These artifacts appear as blurriness or distortion, making it challenging for the scanner to capture clear, still pictures of the coronary arteries.
Increased breathing due to exertion further contributes to these motion artifacts. Blurry images resulting from motion artifacts can lead to inaccurate calcium scores. This can compromise the assessment of heart disease risk and potentially influence subsequent medical decisions.
Preparing for Your Calcium Scoring Scan
Proper preparation is important for obtaining clear and reliable results from a calcium scoring scan. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous physical activity for 12 to 24 hours before the scan, though some facilities may recommend up to 48 hours. This includes all vigorous exercise.
Other pre-scan instructions involve avoiding substances that can elevate heart rate. Patients are advised to refrain from consuming caffeine and nicotine for approximately 12 to 24 hours before the appointment. Staying well-hydrated is also recommended. It is important for patients to carefully follow the specific instructions provided by their healthcare provider or the imaging center to ensure optimal scan quality.
What to Do If You Exercised
If you inadvertently exercise within the prohibited timeframe before your calcium scoring scan, immediately inform the imaging center staff or your doctor. Proceeding with the scan while your heart rate is elevated could result in compromised image quality and an inaccurate study. The scan may need to be rescheduled to ensure your heart rate returns to a resting state. Rescheduling prioritizes the accuracy of the calcium score for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.