Coronary Artery Calcium Score (CAC) - Can It Predict A Heart Attack?

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Welcome to a special episode of Talking with Docs! In this episode, our special guest Dr. Heffernan, a renowned cardiologist, sheds light on the Coronary Artery Calcium Score - a powerful tool to assess your risk of heart attack. Dr. Heffernan explains how this score is calculated and how it can provide valuable insights into your heart health. Tune in to discover if you're at risk and how you can take steps to protect your heart.
The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score is a non-invasive imaging test that uses computed tomography (CT) to detect calcium buildup in the walls of the coronary arteries - the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The CAC score is a measure of the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries and is used as an indicator of atherosclerosis - a condition in which plaque builds up inside the arteries, leading to a narrowing and hardening of the arteries. The higher the CAC score, the higher the risk of a heart attack or other cardiovascular events. The CAC score is a valuable tool for assessing an individual's risk of heart disease and guiding appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications.
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Опубликовано:

14 июл 2024

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Комментарии : 978

@jeffandcheri95 Год назад

A coronary calcium scan saved my husband’s life. I have them every few years to keep off statins, and I asked my husband to get a scan for a baseline. The very skilled dr reading his scan called us immediately to come in because he spotted an aortic aneurysm. It was at the max. It could have exploded (?) at any minute. He had open heart surgery as soon as the dr could get him in. I’m SO thankful for that incidental finding. As for me, my score is always zero, even though I have slightly high LDL. I’m so grateful these scans help me keep the statins away.

@billdublewhopper3064 9 дней назад

They don't "keep statins away". LDL is causal for Atherosclerotic lesions. High LDL above 70 is developing soft plaque lesions.

@greggjohnson5458 Год назад

I am a CT Technologist and used to score these Heart Calcium CTs. I know the coronary arteries real well. Been able to save a lot of people with these that were asymptomatic who scores were in the 1000s bad news. Hopefully we helped them before they had a heart attack that threatened there life.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks for sharing Gregg!

@rodrigovela6117 11 месяцев назад

I got a score of 0 however at times I feel tightness in chest and a skip. Should I worry or get another type of test?

@cho7707 11 месяцев назад

@@rodrigovela6117like the nurse just commented, the cardiac cath test is the best. I got one and had 20% blockage.

@Mike-01234 11 месяцев назад

@@cho7707 That's a risky procedure only to find 20% blockage. I'm assuming they saw something on a nuclear stress test. 20% not going to put stents in.

@cho7707 11 месяцев назад

@@Mike-01234 I didn't get stents, I got one because my brother had a fatal heart attack on the job. He had been complaining of chest pains but because he was only 46, his GP chalked it up to acid reflux. Good call, huh? I'd get one again if I feel the need. Btw my brother had 70-90% blockage in his arteries. Heart disease runs in my mom's family. His wife should have sued the pants off of that "GP."

@dominiquegianni-embrey2552 8 месяцев назад

I’m a female, 72 years, not overweight or sedentary. However there is a family history of cardio vascular disease that has resulted in many on my mom’s side of the family and has impacted my siblings as well. Calcium score saved my life. Plus a cholesterol score of 300 … got some attention and received the medical treatments I needed. GP wouldn’t listen to my requests because I looked fine! The GP even wrote a nasty note about me to my cardiologist, he was a little miffed that I wouldn’t take his advice. But hey, a girl’s got to do what a girl’s got to do. Speak up for yourself. ❤

@RamasamyArumugam1927 7 месяцев назад

@dominiquegianni-embrey2552. Thank you for sharing. I am from India. My calcium score was 1030 in July 2023 with a very high risk of events. So far I have been free of any symptoms. I have a positive family history (my mother had a stroke and died 30 years ago when I was a child), and my father was free of any cardiovascular symptoms and died in 2020. You write that the calcium score saved your life and you received the medical treatment. What kind of medical treatment did you receive?

@stephenkern5784 3 месяца назад

Also get new doctor.

@yazminmojica4458 2 месяца назад

Claro que si! 👏👏👏👍

@jjlittle81 Месяц назад

I paid $150 for this test and it turned out to be a great prediction tool.

@tedfisherHSCC Год назад

My cardiologist asked me to consider a CAC scoring since my father died at 51 from a heart attack. I scored over 1700. Within 2 years I noticed a breathing issue while walking fast. I normally could walk very fast with no issues. I contacted my doctor who sent me for an Angiogram test. They found severe plaque build up and scheduled surgery. I had 6 way bypass. I was blocked 85%-95% in all 6 areas including my Widow Maker. They harvested a vessel from my left leg and pulled a vessel from my right chest mammary. This surgery was 2018. This test alerted me to watch for signs of heart issues and doing cholesterol medication for reducing plaque build up. My Cardiologist has been very happy with my blood work ever since. ❤️

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Sorry to hear this but glad that you were OK. Thank you for taking the time to share your story.

@tedfisherHSCC 10 месяцев назад

@@J.o.e_KI got very short of breathe. I did not have higher blood pressure than usually do. I checked with a Pulmonology Specialist first who told me it was my heart.

@sixpackbinky 4 месяца назад

Have you checked how much plaque was hardened?

@faylinameir 3 месяца назад

wow that is intense and I'm glad you're doing good now

@beautiful20106 3 месяца назад

U need to eat better

@barbaraebner5889 Год назад

I love this cardiologist. Explains all topics he has been asked to do perfectly and understandable. Thank You!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

For sure Barbara

@jewel1953 Год назад

Your sense of humor is one reason I watch but I learn so much. Y'all are so kind to always answer my questions.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad to hear that Judith

@susanschmidler3122 9 месяцев назад

You always cover any topic thoroughly. So helpful!

@davidpescod7573 Год назад

Another brilliant, informative and funny video. Thanks to you two great communicators, and a very special thanks to Dr Heffernan for so clearly explaining CAC, a crucial test for some, but not, I think, generally known, and positive ways of dealing with the problem of arterial calcification

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks David

@larrym8417 Год назад

Good Day, This was the first time I had heard of C.A.C., and if required one can be tested and react accordingly. This discussion was presented with really in depth detail. Again, thank you to all three of you for taking time out of your day to keep all of us up to date on today’s findings & technology. Larry PS, your presentations, intermixed with your exceptional humor is very much appreciated.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

That is great to hear Larry! Thanks for watching

@peterjones739 Год назад

Thank you #drokosunmusa3695 for curing me I'm really grateful ❤

@kolitiokada9825 Год назад

Thanks Docs! For presenting information with humor! Also, for looking at an issue from multiple points of view. And for asking/answering questions we may have/have not thought of.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

That’s our goal. To help our viewers wade through the info on RU-vid and be confident they are getting reliable info

@alc6799 Год назад

I had a CAC score of 18. Doctor thought that was ok. I insisted on a non- invasive Angigram to double check. Results 50-70% blockages in some arteries. The Lesson is,and as pointed out, CAC only picks up the hard, calcified plaque not the more dangerous soft plaque.If in doubt do both tests. My doctor says he now tells his other patients about my experience. Consequently, I made some serious lifestyle changes to reduce the inflammation in my body that will cause the soft plaques to possibly rupture and lead to a heart attack. The lifestyle changes have led to me feeling better. Great video as always. Thanks.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Yes this speaks to those who think a good calcium score is a clean bill of health. It’s part of the puzzle

@lpg12338 Год назад

Thanks for sharing!

@RG-hf4et 9 месяцев назад

What is a non invasive angiogram?

@lindagarofalo6223 7 месяцев назад

A CT Angiogram is basically a CT scan that is done with a contrast dye that shows if there are any blockages in the arteries of the heart. It gives a clear picture of the arteries without inserting anything into the arteries.

@Corkfish1 7 месяцев назад

@@lindagarofalo6223like a nuclear stress test?

@kens6168 Год назад

Love the format. I learn better this way. Thanks.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad to hear it!

@dominickdibella8830 Год назад

Another awesome informative video, and keep up the humor. Cheers!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks, will do!

@CookingCanningAndBaking Год назад

This is the first I've heard of CAC. Thanks for the time, education, and humor. See you on the next one!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it!

@GreggBB Год назад

Love this video. Never heard of the test, so I learned so much today!!! Guess I'll be asking my cardiologist about it after I get my echocardiogram done at the end of May. Really appreciated how far it went into detail.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Welcome Gregg. Good luck with your doctor visit

@RG-hf4et 9 месяцев назад

I told my general md I wanted it done - I didn't ask. A lot of md's don't suggest this test for some reason - maybe because insurance may not pay for it. I am on Medicare and it cost me $89.00 two months ago in NJ....I thought the fee was very reasonable-all things considered. I had it done years ago when it first came out & it was $50.00 not covered by insurance.

@donnamcfarland162 Месяц назад

99.00 in Florida. Walk in clinics, no appointment required… a great tool!

@ellocodos Год назад

My CAC was 950! I now have 4 stents in my corinary arteries and feeling good.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Oh man John. Glad you are ok

@LUELLA1968 9 месяцев назад

Great info!! I’m having this test done in 2 days here in the states and you answered so many questions and have made me aware of how the testing numbers come into play! ❤

@claudiabaez7812 9 месяцев назад

Did you score a big fat zero?

@denisebiendarra5996 Год назад

My internist ordered a CAC because my LDL and total cholesterol were too high. I was shocked to find out that my score was 0. I just turned 62. My Dad had high cholesterol for many years but lived to 92.

@SeaStarGazer1111 Год назад

Same here, with a family hx of ASHD, my Dad died young from cardiac arrest at 57. My CAC was “zero blockages.” My Tot Chol is 201 & LDL 155. HDL is very good, above 60 & Trigly below 40. My Mom had high chol never took a statin & lived into late 90s. So best NOT to take a statin!

@SeaStarGazer1111 Год назад

There’s another very informative video by Dr Robert Lustig called Cholesterol Explained. He’s a neuro-endocrinologist & a professor at UCSF

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Nice Denise

@Heartfelt-zv7wh Год назад

I can’t hear cuz hubby sleeping 🛌 but are statins safe or no?????

@MyCleverHandle Год назад

Statins are a punishment.

@johndonlan5956 Год назад

Cardiologist wants me to go for a C.A.C. , and I know he means well, but he never explained all of that about the different types of calcification and the relevance of the cac test. This video is it fantastic! For the first time I understand what's happening to my arteries!!! Thank you doctors, so much!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad we could help John

@simonround2439 9 месяцев назад

I had a crazy high cholesterol test and was whisked off for a CAC scan (I was in my mid-50s). The result was zero. The other good news was I had low blood pressure, no family history of heart disease, I was fit and a perfect weight. I turned down the doctor's offer of a statin as found out there was zero benefit within 10 years of a 0 CAC score.

@claudiabaez7812 9 месяцев назад

You are aware 50% of people who have sudden heart attacks have a zero calcium score right?

@alketadardovski9313 9 месяцев назад

❤

@ThanhNguyen-wn5cz 4 месяца назад

You may want to have a non invasive angiogram done just to make sure. CAC tests only detect hard plague , angiograms detect soft plague. I have friends with low CAC test result having heart attack coz they have blockagr due to soft plague.

@billdublewhopper3064 9 дней назад

High LDL is causal

@simonround2439 8 дней назад

@@billdublewhopper3064 I don't think there is any proof of thise. That's why it's called the lipid "hypothesis".

@janicevillandre9577 Год назад

Keep up the great work, blessing to you both

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thank you! You too!

@alpenglow1235 4 месяца назад

Here are the answers I’ve been looking for! THANK YOU!!!

@bw6078 Год назад

Never heard of this test. Many thanks for sharing.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks for watching!

@torgervedeler6949 Год назад

More questions for my cardiologist! Thanks as always!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

You got it!

@barbaragoodman1789 8 месяцев назад

Always enjoy your videos, even tho this video doesn’t pertain to me it’s very interesting and educational ! Thanks for all the great videos !

@Mansmatters 10 месяцев назад

Great video. You provided some important information

@mike9147 Год назад

Another great video! I'm having my 3rd Calcium Sorce test next week. So many folks have no idea how great this test is! I'd say the #1 test of all tests for your heart! Thank you for letting everyone know about this!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

You’re welcome

@bettywhill Год назад

What were your scores?

@winston12364 Год назад

Are you American?

@johnallen7367 9 месяцев назад

Carnivore diet routinely delivers calcium scores of 0.

@darlenericotta7550 Год назад

Thanks Docs another very informative video! Love your videos and thanks so much for your humor! Love you too Docs!❤❤

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad you like them!

@timjohnson5519 Год назад

Great explanation guys. I appreciate your review of the topic. We'll done.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Much appreciated!

@zanereese4796 11 месяцев назад

Thanks Docs, this video is one of your best.

@eileenpawluk353 Год назад

I L❤️VE YOU GUYS❣️ Keep up the AMAZING work you both do 🥰😊😘 Thank you Dr. Cardiologist ❣️

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thank you! Will do!

@straystrength6502 Год назад

My CAC score revealed a whopping score of 6359! I've yet to hear of anyone with even a remotely close score. Thank God, I'm asymptomatic. Cardiac catherization revealed two 60% blockages, a couple 40% blockages and a small artery that was 100% blocked. Miraculously the small artery created its own bypass. I now have to take Crestor, zetia and plavix. I'm still in phenomenal shape. It was heavy steroid use from my bodybuilding days that caused it.

@LoveABun Год назад

Damn!! I hope you are thanking your lucky stars every day because you are one very lucky guy! Thank goodness for your doctor who insisted you have such a test!

@straystrength6502 Год назад

@@LoveABun actually I suggested it. Thankfully I watched the Widowmaker documentary on RU-vid and I follow Ivor Cummins on RU-vid. The Content provided allowed me to catch it before it progressed or I had a widowmaker.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Wow glad you are ok and thanks for sharing

@larryd5192 Год назад

My score taken a few weeks ago was 3800, seeing my doc this week. I've been on a statin for several years and have lost 53lbs in the past year and my blood sugar is under control. Waiting to see if I have any blockages. Wonder why they didn't do a stent on you for the 60%ers? I heard when you get in shape whatever was soft will calcify. Are you better off is the question.

@straystrength6502 Год назад

@@larryd5192 they told me there had to be at least 70% blockages to put stents in. I guess it's just a matter of time. They said for prevention LDL should be below 70ng/dl. Statins alone weren't doing it so I added in Ezetimibe. Now my ldl is around 50.

@francisexperience Год назад

Very useful great info and love to see Doctors' with a sense of humour!!!Thanks guys!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it!

@PVVI2015 3 месяца назад

That was VERY interesting! Thank you!

@janderson9806 Год назад

As of writing this I saw a cardiologist today. Had a bunch of tests done and he said my heart looked fine. My concern heart disease and strokes run in my family, and I have had a stroke as well. When he started talking about plaque I ask if there was a test for that and he said there wasn't. After a quick search here I am and feel I need a new Dr.

@robertnorton7504 Год назад

Dr. Heffernan is great on your channel. Would love to hear him talk about left bundle branch blockage.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Ok we will add it to the list

@catholicbrute Год назад

Hey, Docs, thank you for this video. It was slightly alarming but more importantly informative/educational!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad it was helpful!

@greggjohnson5458 Год назад

Love your website you are great with the humor and talking as well keep it up!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks, will do!

@janetttyminski7295 11 месяцев назад

I’ve been a cardiac RN for over 25 years. One of my responsibilities was to call CAC results to outpatients. I learned (1) any score above ZERO means you have coronary artery disease. (2) You can have a normal stress test & a CAC score of ZERO & still need bypass surgery. Cardiac cath is the gold standard. (3) You can have a CAC score of over 3500, with LOTS of calcified plaque, but NO significant BLOCKAGES on cardiac cath, if you have huge coronary arteries. (4) If you have many CAD risk factors, do not depend on a low CAC score to gauge your risk prior to major surgery. See a cardiologist & get a stress test. We have a 75yo male in cardiac rehab right now, who coded during knee surgery. He went for bypass surgery & is lucky to be alive, but his short term memory is not good.

@cho7707 11 месяцев назад

Re: (2) My brother had a "normal" stress test. His complaints of chest pain were blown off as acid reflux, the go-to ailment to get people out of the office. He had a fatal heart attack on the job, autopsy showed 70-90% blockage in all 4 arteries. He was 46. Doctors are only worried about getting the next patient in. Herded like cattle.

@gloriamaryhaywood2217 11 месяцев назад

@@cho7707 #OMG. Did he have just a regular stress test. That's IT? That's ALL that his doctor ordered?? I Can't imagine how a doctor would make a frigging 'acid reflux' call without doing some extensive testing!? Wow. Just WOW. So sorry for the loss of ypur brother. Our health care system is truly broken.

@cho7707 11 месяцев назад

@@gloriamaryhaywood2217 thank you very much. Yes, his Dr only recommended a standard stress test. Such a concerned physician. 🤦

@RG-hf4et 9 месяцев назад

With chest pain, your brother should have had a nuclear stress test, not a regular stress test. I was having chest pain in my 30's. My dad's side of the family has a history of sudden cardiac deaths. I went to a cardiologist & she said we are going to do a stress test but I am considering a possible nuclear stress test but you are young & chances are you are ok. I told her flat out to please give me the nuclear stress test bc I don't want to drop dead like my 3 uncles did. We did the nuclear & everything turned out fine. It turned out to be gastric reflux. I am very sorry to hear about your brother.🙏

@gloriamaryhaywood2217 9 месяцев назад

@@cho7707 May I ask your brothers age at the time of his fatal heart attack? My sister just lost her middle son to a massive heart attack. He had just turned 50 years old.💔

@Joy21090 Год назад

Love your videos and proud to say I grew up in "THE" Framingham (Massachusetts, USA). I think my dad may have been one of the study participants. If I had my druthers, I wish Dr. Heffernan would talk about valve disease, in particular valve stenosis with regurgitation. You guys, keep on being medical rock stars!!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

We literally recorded a valve video the same day to be released soon

@Joy21090 Год назад

@@TalkingWithDocs I look forward to it

@poodles188 Год назад

excellent video as always, thanks

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad you enjoyed it

@wattheheck6010 Год назад

Love this plethora of info!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad to hear it!

@redhen689 Год назад

Thanks guys! A lot of good info here. I’m in my mid 60s. My total Cholesterol is high, but my ratio and triglycerides are good. I wasn’t familiar with the CAC. It’s good to learn about something new.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad we could help

@PapasDino Год назад

Another great, informative piece, thanks guys! If Dr. H. returns you should give him the special scrub for the channel! ;-)

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Hi Dino, that is a great idea for a recurring guests

@bettesmith1117 Год назад

I need to decide to get this test. This was helpful. Thank you.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Very welcome

@1mourningdove54 Год назад

Thanks to all three of you for a very informative video. Out hearts a very complicated machines and I learn more with each of your videos.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Great to hear!

@cobaltbroker Год назад

My husband had his CAC at age 69, insulin dependent diabetic for 30 yrs and already on anti colesterol meds for decades. His score was 1800 total in the 3 major arteries. He had a stress rest and passed it easily. We both walk about 2+ miles daily at a gym. The next year he had another stress rest and did fine. I keep worrying about him having a heart attack, but he feels well. His cardiologist says he may have had the plaques for many years.

@bscsmscs1578 11 месяцев назад

I don't think he had plaque before he started statin (cholestrol med). Statin is known to increase CAC score although DOCs say that statin helps to stabalize by calcifying soft plaques to make them more stable. So, taking CAC test once you start STATIN is useless. Your DOC should have known this.

@gloriamaryhaywood2217 10 месяцев назад

@@bscsmscs1578 The CAC tests don't pick up on any soft plaques. Only picks up the solidified calcium plaque. It's the soft plaques that are the most dangerous so this test doesn't tell you the whole story!

@johnallen7367 9 месяцев назад

Carnivore diet routinely delivers calcium scores of 0.

@BW-kv9wj 7 месяцев назад

@@johnallen7367Yes, but people on carnivore diet may have soft plaque that can’t be detected by the CAC scan. And it’s guaranteed that if you’re on a carnivore diet, you’re cholesterol will be high.

@johnallen7367 7 месяцев назад

@@BW-kv9wj thanks for responding. Yes, ldl can be higher on Carnivore. Ldl cholesterol as a cause of cardiovascular disease has been debunked many times. Cholesterol was said to cause cardiovascular disease by ansell keyes, using skewed data, and unscientific methodology. Big food paid science to point the blame away from sugar and processed foods. Cardiovascular disease is driven by insulin resistance, caused by sugar and carbs. I went carnivore at 63, 120kg, fat, sick. In 6mths I have lost 32kg, cured every chronic illness I had. I dont know what else to say to you. 6mths ago if you asked me what i thought was the best human diet, i would have said something from the just juice shop. It made sense, it seemed, but apparently it was wrong. My physical and mental health has blossomed beyond any expectations. If the medical profession and pharmaceutical industry were correct in their recommendations, we would all be amazingly healthy. Yet, westerners are the fattest, sickest, mentally unhealthy, miserable people on the planet. Clearly, the advice has been wrong, and the emphasis is no longer on healing, just eternal treating of conditions. This diet is entirely sustainable. Inuit indians and many other cultures have been living on diets of meat and fat for their entire lives. They have no incidence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, alzheimers etc etc.

@vickiepatterson1748 Год назад

Another great one Docs! Great information, great guest speaker and great humor! 👍 Humor may not be the best medicine, or even medicine but it really helps absorb the seriousness of this helpful information! The three of you make a great team, providing pertinent information with a better understanding of what all this means! I've learned more from you and appreciate how you explain things so most can understand. But mostly I appreciate your humor! Without humor you would be dead serious and that would scare a lot of people away. Easy on the chicken wings and heavy on the kale then add a heaping of laughter! You make learning fun and easier to swallow because we need to know this information. Thanks for sharing another great video! 😁

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad to have you as a very loyal viewer Vickie

@Miguel195211 8 месяцев назад

Great video. I will be having this test in three days.

@maryanncarmody5646 Год назад

Another great video docs, thank you!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Very welcome Mary Ann Thank you.

@PINAYINJAPANVLOG Год назад

Good morning from here what a interesting topic Again thank you talking Docs. ❤❤😊

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Good morning!

@MrMockingbird1313 Год назад

My calcium score was 192, chloestrol was very low, and I had a small heart heart blockage of the LAD. Now I have a stent. Didn't know I felt bad. Now I have more energy. So numbers are important but listen to body signals.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Sorry to hear that

@rhondaperrine6751 Год назад

Another great video Docs!!!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Glad you like them!

@JBenny2010 Год назад

Appreciate the diagram at 11:47 because visuals are most important to tying in your analysis for the novice patient. Thank you!

@jerrywhite4497 10 месяцев назад

I have been the proud owner of a hiatal hernia since my mid-20s. When proton pump inhibitors came out I got on them immediately. My quality of life improved dramatically. Turns out I was damned if I didn't take them for fear of Barrett's esophagus disease (cancer) as opposed to what the PPI did in the long term. I am 70 years old weigh 165 and I'm 6'1" and my blood pressure is normal, 126/72 pulse 68-72 and I only have one kidney. I have always eaten well and exercised. My recent lab results were: Triglycerides 63mg, cholesterol 148mg, HDL 50mg, calculated LDL 85.4mg and HDL of total cholesterol was 33.8%. I had an EKG done that raised the eyebrow of the doctor. She then suggested a Nuclear Stress Test which came back normal. So she suggested a CT scan of the heart which came back functioning normally. I then asked for a CAC test. It came back at 1749. I also have small particle LDLs. No shortness of breath, no chest pain and I do not get tired very easily. My current cardiologist said she's not worried about me (I found another one.) Here is what I learned about PPIs: I learned that PPIs reduce the enzymatic activity of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH). In this way, PPIs increase plasma levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) 4. Because it inhibits the generation of vascular nitric oxide, ADMA would be expected to increase platelet interaction with the vessel wall. In summary, it means that because of the PPIs I was taking it inhibited the production of nitrous oxide in my blood vessels that protect the endothelial lining of the arteries. The PPI and my small lipids aren't doing me any favors. If you know anyone on a PPI, try and get them off of it. Source: research NIH on PPIs www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6463334/

@RG-hf4et 9 месяцев назад

Ok, I am on a private. What am I supposed to take instead ?

@dominickp2057 2 месяца назад

I am 53 0 calcium score 195 ldl 255 total cholestrol normal triglycerides no diabetes controlled high bp I been on ppi nexium for years 20 at least ....comming off ppi is horriable terriable rebound effect I am on every other day now still unable to stop....

@garlicgalore Месяц назад

I do pretty well with H2 blocker instead of PPI. In fact, ppi's cause severe anxiety, which has been diagnosed as allergy, and I can't take them at all.

@dominickp2057 Месяц назад

@@garlicgaloreh2 blockers don't work for me .....make me nauseous too sometimes

@garlicgalore Месяц назад

@@dominickp2057 It is difficult - all these meds are hard on the body one way or another. I hope you can settle out a plan that works best for you!

@vincedavis5326 Год назад

Great timing on production of this video. In the US and in my sixties, all current basic indicators were good, also HDL at 70 (ml/dL), LDL at 81. Did the CAC test a couple of weeks ago based on family history. Total score was 100. Have just started taking a statin. As always, great information in the video. Thanks!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks for sharing. All the best Vince

@lpg12338 Год назад

Take a look a Dr. Ford Brewer’s channel, he has live streaming every Wednesday at 9 am cst. He has many videos on CAC and CIMT.

@craigcrawford6749 Год назад

Now you started killing yourself. Why would you even consider a statin? Hello dementia

@Tiredofthecrap Год назад

Best wishes . Statins can have horrific side effects.

@gloriamaryhaywood2217 10 месяцев назад

@@Tiredofthecrap Agree. I don't see Why his doctor prescribed Statins? His lipid score was in good range. And his CAC score wasn't very high either!

@dawnmyers9454 Год назад

Great information! There are so many variables to consider prior to statin therapy.

@seascape35 Год назад

Very informative!

@mancello Год назад

I asked a few weeks ago for a video on CAC scores. Thanks.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

No problem!

@doodlebug4022 Год назад

I always love the medical information but LOVE the humor. Medical issues are always so serious and a little humor helps with the stressful issues at hand. So, I agree, if you don’t like humor, move right along.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Yes move along!

@joystrong9666 3 дня назад

I am 70 years old. I thought was pretty healthy and no heart risks. I had my annual physical on Feb 8th and found my LDL was 117. I went on a WFPB diet, walked 10,000 steps per day, no sugar. May 8th dropped my LDL down to 35. March 8th I did a CAC and my LAD score was 148 and my total CAC score was 246. I am staying on a WFPB diet, walking 10,000 steps per day but I decided to start taking 40 mg Lipitor daily. Really didn’t want to do medication …. Let alone a statin drug but I decided since my LAD artery had a score of 148 that taking a statin was a great idea but continuing my WFPB eating and daily activity and I’m working to lose 50 lbs. I’m hoping there is a light at the end that I can eventually go off the statin medication and just maintain my health through diet and exercise.

@jsstar76 Год назад

Docs! I just found you on another channel perusing,by accident , called “What Motivated You!” Great short interview! Oh and this was great too thanks!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Yes JS. Hamza does our editing now!

@f1lupo Год назад

Thanks docs! My first cousin just had a heart quad bi-pass at 57, eats and excercises and is a vegetarian…this test is must

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

It can be important

@jamesec1949 Год назад

Hi Docs, this hits home with me. I was on a statin for 20 years until my body said enough. My MD then prescribed prescription fish oil. That worked well until the price went way up. So I then took OTC fish oil. It helped a little but I didn’t pay attention to my diet. Although chicken wings never touched my lips 😉. Fast forward 10 years and my cholesterol is 315 plus my markers are bad indicating inflammation. I am back on a statin but one that shouldn’t bother me. Also, I was sent for the CT of my heart and my carotid arteries were ultra-sounded. The good news is my number is 64 and my blood pressure has always been perfect. My mom gave her genes to me. Great blood pressure and lousy cholesterol. So it’s inherent. The tests were only $99. Money well spent. I encourage all those who have high cholesterol or a family history of heart conditions to get this done. I mentioned this to my BFF and he’s going to do it. Remember, the life you save may be your own. 🙋‍♂️

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks for sharing

@lpg12338 Год назад

Thanks for sharing!

@mak12578 8 месяцев назад

Price for the test is good. Which country are you in ?

@jamesec1949 8 месяцев назад

@@mak12578 USA

@serena7397 Год назад

Again, thank you Doc's for the clarification!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Welcome!

@nancyberry4713 Год назад

You all are great! Thanks

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Our pleasure!

@stevenswann2835 Год назад

Excellent advice. I was part of a medical trial at a local research facility which included a CAC scan. Despite being fit as a fiddle (run 7kms daily), good diet and lifestyle, I had a calcium score of ~150! (damn you, family history) This, along with resultant statin therapy, allowed me to hopefully head off a major heart even down the track. IMO the CAC is an excellent diagnostic tool. Great video.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks for sharing Steven

@lpg12338 Год назад

Thanks for sharing!

@lpg12338 Год назад

May I ask what your triglycerides have been?

@stevenswann2835 Год назад

@@lpg12338 Prior to Statins 1.3. Since commencing statins, in the 0.7 to 0.9 range.

@lpg12338 Год назад

@@stevenswann2835 Awesome, thank you.

@RG-hf4et 9 месяцев назад

For those who have yet to have a CAC, it should be noted that this is a very quick test. After you lie down and are in position, it takes about 2-3-4 minutes. It is very fast.

@andrissoble5230 10 месяцев назад

I just changed my fAMILY and I am angina chest pain free !!! Thank you for the ADVICE. Your the best

@marciaborg77 Год назад

Thanks for sharing this doc's

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

You bet!

@spurgendahl Год назад

You were talking a lot about LDL-cholesterol values. Some doctors, even on YT, talk about analyzing the LDL in order to count subfractions such as small and large size LDL, of which the former is considered as more dangerous and therefore of more interest, other refer to oxidized LDL as a risk factor. I wish you could come back to these topics later, especially if they really are as important factors for health as they are told to be.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Yes, the lots of doctors that say lots of things on RU-vid. Unfortunately sometimes it is to create controversy and increase their viewership. We try to focus on the facts and give people information that will empower them to make healthy decisions. We may come back and discuss more advanced, lipid testing.

@gijane4070 Год назад

This is spot on

@gijane4070 Год назад

@@TalkingWithDocssorry did you just say increase viewership? Dude your stock just fell a number of points for that comment. Aren’t you guys on RU-vid????

@sharonpults1177 Год назад

In the doctors opinion ( all 3 of you). what are your ideal cholesterol numbers? Total=, HLD=, and LDL..Another informative video...I enjoy these very much

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

In Canada guidelines are HDL greater than 0.9mmol/L and LDL less than 3.5mmol/L

@sharonpults1177 Год назад

@@TalkingWithDocs In the U.S.?

@pierreajlariviere3861 Год назад

Very interesting 🤔. Thank you guys.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Our pleasure!

@jjlittle81 Месяц назад

My Cardiac Calcium Score went from 48 to 350 in a few years. My primary care Dr thought it didn’t mean anything but I went to a cardiologist who put me through all the stress tests etc, and then ordered a CT scan that showed calcification in the LAD but my symptoms weren’t there so Medicare and insurance decided I didn’t need any further tests. 14 months later I I’m in the OR getting 2 stents in LAD MID AND DIAG 80% blockages, due to shortness of breath and fatigue. Statins I don’t tolerate well. Brilinta 12 hrs apart. So far I am doing well.

@elizabethsmith3416 Год назад

The one factor I would leave out in general diagnosis is gender & take into account medical history, genetic disorders etc. I've had 2 small ischemic attacks. So this is good information. Women tend to handle pain better in some cases guys lol & they present differently. So please do not dismiss us at the office or ER because we're not male pot bellied / gray and we are not acting like we're dying lol. Loved this Thank you ❤

@LoveABun Год назад

SPOT ON!!!!! 🤣👍🏼

@marylockwood4400 Год назад

Amen. We have to be our own advocates. My doctor knows by now I'm not easily dismisdable.

@denisemariner1235 Год назад

Yes to high cholesterol, high family risk, senior, and tired of Doctors not listu to women. We are discounted.😢

@lpg12338 Год назад

This is a good comment and unfortunately many women dismiss certain pains and aches as just getting older. I have talked with my girlfriend about this as well. If something doesn’t feel right, then get it looked at asap, don’t put it off.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

For sure. The symptoms can be very different and historically women have been under diagnosed

@ladybugg064 Год назад

My cholesterol is 180, my LDL is 106. I had CAC done in 2020 and the total was 317 and I am taking a 10 mg Statin, thanks.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Welcome

@lesbutler273 Год назад

Always entertaining and worth a watch, but more importantly importantly information to save your life, extend your life or make life more enjoyable living.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Doing our best Les!

@elisabetamuresan3854 Год назад

Excellent video 👌👏🤗

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thank you! Cheers!

@immasher2139 Год назад

I have had high cholesterol for nearly 2 decades. It's familial. No meds per my choice. No HBP, do not smoke and 67 yo. Also have always eaten healthy. KETO the last few years. But after seeing this video (great by the way!), I am going to inquire about CAC. Thanks Docs!

@malekodesouza7255 Год назад

My GP doc recommended this due to family history, age, cholesterol numbers. I had to pay out of pocket, but it was only $175. I scored a zero but was put on a very low statin still due to family history of heart attack & stroke.

@lpg12338 Год назад

So, just to be clear, you DO have family history of heart attack & stroke? Mom Dad / Aunt Uncle?

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks for sharing

@marysinclair1214 10 месяцев назад

OMG, are you guys Canadian eh? I really appreciate the specialist you bring on. You guys rock!

@kariknight6287 Год назад

Brilliant!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Thanks Kari

@pamelakrumvieda3153 9 месяцев назад

My husband, 54, and I, 47, went for calcium scores. Lots of heart disease in his family, very little in my family. His scores were approximately 1300, 800, 300, and 100. My score was 0. My husband did more tests and needed bypass. This is a superb screening test. My husband won't bother with another CAC scan, but I'm sure I will in about 5-10 years.

@RamasamyArumugam1927 7 месяцев назад

Hi, Thank you for sharing. I went for CAC having been diagnosed with clogged arteries. My calcium score (Agatston CAC score) was 1030 in July 2023 with a very high risk of events. All the best

@circa1890 Год назад

If you're taking Vit D3, make sure you're taking it with Vit K2. This ensures that calcium is absorbed easily and reaches the bone mass, while preventing arterial calcification.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Hi Karen. CT or ultrasound usually best to assess the aneurysm. All the best

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

The evidence for K2 actually doing this is quite weak.

@circa1890 Год назад

@@TalkingWithDocs Agreed that there were some shoddy studies. Here's a summary of some of the studies for those interested: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5613455/

@katherinekinnaird4408 Год назад

Thank you gentlemen

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Very welcome

@jamesdillenburg4383 Год назад

I saw m family doctor last week and she recommended having the test. I live near Chicago and the test is not covered by insurance but only cost $60.00. I will be having it on April 20th.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Best of luck James

@theflamboyantgrandma1890 Год назад

Because we love your humor as well as your knowledge... We'll live longer... And those that don't... Well... We'll miss y'all!! ... Sorta... Grumpy Ass's!!😐

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Well, that made our day

@laurad7439 Год назад

My dad died at 46 of his first and only heart attack. For years I knew I had high cholesterol, off and on statins. At 54 I decided to get a scan; for $49, I thought it'd be worth it. Two hours later I got a call (way sooner than 3 business days). I was asked if I felt okay as my score was very high. I felt fine. I'm having coffee with my husband and I'm looking at him like what the heck? A week later I started having palpitations. They wouldn't stop. About 8 p.m. I felt a flutter go from my right chest to my left and then back. I mentioned to my husband I was going to bed and I hope I wake up in the morning. I knew I was or did have a heart attack. The next morning, I was fine, or so I thought. He went off to work, An hour later I had that "sense of impending doom." You don't know it, until you know it. Went to the ER, by car. Hook up to EKG and yep, slight heart attack. 2 ambulance rides and 2 hospitals later (final destination full on beds, and I was stable so I was okay to wait), but finally Memorial Day 2019 I had a 6-vessel bypass. My cardiac cath at second hospital showed so much blockage they just said bypass. But the cardiologist said don't worry, you'll be fine. BTW, my score was 1666. I am going on 4 years after my surgery. I didn't know I was as 'sick' as I was.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Wow so glad you are ok and thanks for sharing your story

@lpg12338 Год назад

WOW! Thanks for sharing!

@marylockwood4400 Год назад

My friend had a major heart attack, they had to put a stent on top of a stent, and two other arteries are also blocked, she may have to put stents in those too. I wish she had a calcium scan before all that happened. So glad you are doing well! Take care!

@LabRat6619 Год назад

So glad you are here with us all.

@tedfisherHSCC Год назад

My surgery was in 2019. My score was over 1700 and had no heart attack, but recognized symptoms in my labored breathing. They ordered an Angiogram followed by 6 way bypass. My widow maker was 95% blocked and 85-90% in the rest. Thank you to modern medicine and the hand of God.❤️🙏

@pilarcamaliche1599 Год назад

Awesome info 😊, is statins meds the only meds or way to treat this condition?, great video!❤

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

No. There are many classes

@dlg5485 10 месяцев назад

I am about to turn 54 and I have a long family history of heart disease but, I am in excellent health thanks to a massive shift in lifestyle over the last several years. My BP is 110/72 and my overall cholesterol profile isn't terrible, but my TC/LDL stubbornly stay at around 240/130, although my HDL is always above 70 so my ratios are 'protective'. I am very interested in getting this test done, just so I can know what my risk level really is. One of the local hospitals near me offers CAC scoring for $79 if you meet certain risk factors, which I do.

@MT-sq3jo 10 месяцев назад

Get the CAC done, and the result can add to the list of data that help you determine what, if any, LDL treatment you need. I’m in similar age and LDL cholesterol profile, although my triglycerides number is quite good. Even though my CAC score is zero, I opted for starting a baby statin since my Lp(a) is high. CAC score helped me to decide what statin dosage to try first. By the way, I strongly recommend getting a Cardio IQ test to see your ApoB and Lp(a) levels.

@dlg5485 10 месяцев назад

@@MT-sq3jo I'm definitely not taking any statins. I've tried them in the past and there are way too many side effects. I try to avoid all prescription medications and correct health issues naturally, with diet and supplements. I'm really not even all that concerned about my lipid profile since I'm in excellent health, overall, but it's always better to have more information.

@cottydry 11 месяцев назад

Excellent video. Dr. wants me to take a statin because my Chol/LDL is 200/101. But I told him "no" because I exercise every day, my weight is normal, I eat healthy, I don't smoke and there's no history of heart disease in my family. The silly Framingham model ignores all these other factors. He suggested the CAC test and I agreed. It sounds like an excellent tool to help me make a better informed decision. I'm scheduled later this month. Your video helped me better understand CAC. Thank you!

@tedeckersdorff576 3 месяца назад

What was the result of your CAC?

@drew7155 3 месяца назад

What was the result? It seems these tests are highly controversial

@christianmeza4941 2 месяца назад

how did it go!

@irishboy70 Год назад

I was on cholesterol meds for 35 years. I had been running over 40 years 4 times a week and many marathons. Then about 1.5 years ago my Doc says time for CAC. It was 388 and showed I had 3 blockages in the 3 main vessels (3VD). 3 stents fitted. Thing was I had zero symptoms and Cardioligist said that due to the high intensity exercise and statins my body had created its own collaterals(like baby bypasses) and that the statins had also upped the calcification. Mentally I felt better knowing that I had the stents in but I am now on a Mediterranean diet, no junk food at all and still bashing about at the running. There is hope!

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Yes. Thanks for sharing

@gerrybaker1422 8 месяцев назад

Thanks for the encouragement. How old are you

@kellyyork3898 Год назад

I have pretty good health insurance with BC/BS, but they would not cover this test. Due to my family history of heart disease, my doc recommended it. I paid for it out of pocket, which was a little over 125.00. My score was high. So they increased my statin. I had a nuclear stress test….no blockages, but my blood pressure shot up while on the treadmill. That did concern them. I am within the normal weight range for my height. It’s scary to learn that you have a high score, but the truth is always your friend.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

It sure is Kelly

@avisoberdan7352 Год назад

My cholesterol was 234 but got it down to 187 with a plant based diet. Still working on getting it down more.

@DeannaWalsh Год назад

Indeed! A whole-foods plant-based diet is the best for helping.

@lpg12338 Год назад

How are your triglycerides? I would focus on that the most.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Nice work Avis

@PragmaticPerson Год назад

Getting a CAC saved my life! That knowledge of having heart disease led me to research how to reverse it. I’ve been on a WFPB diet since January 2022. My total cholesterol and LDLs have dropped significantly, and all my blood work results are in normal ranges now. I’ve avoided statins, so as long as my numbers stay or keep improving, I expect my heart disease to regress. Thanks Docs for this video, as it could save someone else’s life too!

@lpg12338 Год назад

@@PragmaticPerson Outstanding, congratulations! 👍

@maryd4239 Год назад

There was a recent study that stated Statins have more risks than benefits and are not worth taking to reduce cholesterol. Dr. Ken Berry has a video about this information.

@lisa408t Год назад

I read that as well...I'd love to know if statins are a bad idea

@lpg12338 Год назад

I am not pro statins, but there are some cases were they may help. Check out Dr. Ford Brewer’s channel on this subject.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Please don’t rely on Ken Berry for your information. Statins are not the end all be all they once thought but cholesterol is still an issue and statins have saved a lot of lives.

@daviddean6032 Год назад

Wonderful video! Thank you! I am in Nova Scotia and do I just ask my doctor for one or is it not that easy? Thank you so much for all your videos.

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

Hi David. It is worth a discussion with your doctor, but as we mentioned, many people actually do not need this test. Worth a chat though.

@AT525LA Месяц назад

I am in the US. My insurance does not cover CAC tests, but my clinic only charges $80. From what I have seen, $80 - $100 seems to be the norm. I was surprised when you mentioned prices as high as $700. Hopefully people know to search around a bit if they want to get a cheaper option.

@TalkingWithDocs Месяц назад

We agree search around. Maybe that’s Canadian 🤣

@sandycastles7105 24 дня назад

Was $50 last time I checked. I'm from Midwest, so ...

@51AB Год назад

Another great video guys! You remind me of my doctor in Calgary. Question: Does vitamin K2 really remove calcium from arteries and deposit it into bone??

@TalkingWithDocs Год назад

It’s role is grossly overstated. We are going to try and do a video on this topic

@51AB Год назад

@@TalkingWithDocs That would be fantastic! Looking forward to it. Thanks.

@marylockwood4400 Год назад

@@TalkingWithDocs it wod be very helpful if you can tell us what supplements are helpful. My cardiologist recommended CO Q10 since I'm taking statin, supposed to ease muscle pain which I have.... Still not sure if it's from the statin or my ongoing back and leg pains.