Calcium build-up in the heart is commonly termed arterial calcification. Over time, calcium deposits accumulate on the inner walls of the heart’s arteries—especially those of the Coronary artery disease (CAD) network—making them stiff, less flexible, and narrowing the channel through which blood flows. While people may show no symptoms for years, the underlying process raises the risk of heart attack, impaired blood flow and serious heart-related events.
What Causes Heart Artery Calcification?
A range of factors trigger calcium build-up. These include long-standing high blood pressure, elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol, diabetes, chronic kidney disease and age-related changes in blood vessels.
In essence, when plaque (fat, cholesterol, debris) forms in arterial walls, calcium gradually deposits within that plaque, turning it harder and more rigid.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Doctors use imaging tests to detect and grade calcification. For example, a CT scan called a coronary calcium score (CAC) can show the amount and density of calcium in the coronary arteries.
A high score means a higher risk and often suggests more aggressive monitoring or intervention.
Heart artery calcification is a serious but manageable aspect of cardiovascular disease. Recognising risk, detecting calcification early, and combining lifestyle, medication and interventional options offer a pathway to reducing risk and improving outcomes. If you or someone you know has had a high calcium score, seeking specialist advice and asking about treatment options is wise.
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