What is a CT Angiogram of the Heart?

A computerized tomography is an examination that produces the images of the heart veins and arteries. It is helpful in knowing the supply chain of the blood to the heart. The test is necessary for a cardiologist to identify and diagnose any underlying conditions related to the heart.

A CT angiogram of the heart is a simple yet powerful procedure to look at the arteries of the heart. CT angiogram of the heart uses an X-ray machine to capture the images of the heart and the blood vessels. Coronary angiograms are becoming a standard procedure for people who are expressing chest pain and other symptoms related to the heart.

In a non-CT based coronary angiogram, the technician induces thin catheter and guides it to the desired position. They will then induce a dye that exposes the region. The nurse will then capture the images using the x-ray machine. The nurse will pass the tube through the groin or the arm to reach the coronary arteries. If you did have coronary disease earlier, then the doctor will opt for this procedure, as it will help in providing the treatment for the same too.

A CT angiogram of the heart is the best way to look at the functioning of the heart. The conditions make it useful for the cardiologist to understand the reason behind why the patient arrived for the diagnosis in the first place or experienced chest pain. It will further help in displaying the narrowness of the arteries, where the blood flow is less and carries a limited amount of oxygen to the heart. If the results are positive, then you can discuss the treatment procedure with the treatment provider, which further counts additional illnesses that you possess.

The CT angiogram of the heart test is invasive, it does have some effect of the radiation due to the use of the X-ray machine. The radiation varies from one device to another. Therefore, it is difficult to comment on this point. The risk of developing cancer causing symptoms is unknown at this point, but the opportunity still exists in small amounts.

Pregnant women should keep away from CT angiogram of the heart and seek other methods to test the reason for the chest pain. The radiation emitted by the X-ray is harmful, and it can cause severe side effect on the unborn child.

If you are allergic to medicines or specific dyes, you should speak ahead with the doctor to ensure that they opt for a better alternative.

Before arriving for the CT angiogram of the heart, the doctor will present with a list of preparations. Usually, you will not be eating or drinking anything at least four hours before the test. You are also advised to bring loose clothes. You should also keep away from caffeine contents, as they increase the heart rate. In case of diabetic patients, consulting respective physicians will be of immense help, as it will provide them with the details related to the quantity that you can intake of the medicine.

Depending on the CT angiogram of the heart test results, the doctor will provide you with the essential treatment procedure. If the image displays narrowness, the doctor begins the treatment using medication along with simple activities that do not cause excessive stress on the heart. If there is an improvement, the doctor will continue with the treatment and ensures that the heart is receiving the required quantity of oxygen.

If the CT angiogram of the heart test result is negative, then there is nothing to worry about except for watching over the lifestyle and food habits.