How to manage a high calcium score and why lowering it isn't the goal with Dr. Lisa Hurst

Welcome to the HealthSpanMD podcast with Dr. Robert Todd Hurst, a board-certified cardiologist and creator of HealthSpanMD.  

In this episode, Dr. Hurst delves into the intricacies of coronary artery calcium scoring, a powerful tool to assess an individual's risk for heart attack, stroke, and death. Joined by Dr. Lisa Hurst, a board-certified internal medicine physician, they answer common questions about this critical test and its implications for longevity and heart health. 

Timestamps: 

• 00:01 - Introduction and welcome by Dr. Robert Hurst 

• 01:02 - Importance of coronary artery calcium scoring for longevity 

• 03:20 - Historical context and development of the Agatston score 

• 05:42 - Who should get a coronary artery calcium score? 

• 07:57 - Correlation between calcium scores and blockages in arteries 

• 10:17 - Interpretation of different calcium score ranges 

• 12:37 - Frequency of getting a coronary artery calcium score test 

• 14:57 - How to manage a high calcium score and why lowering it isn't the goal 

• 17:14 - Does a high calcium score mean a higher risk of heart attacks? 

• 19:26 - Do high calcium scores necessitate further testing or procedures? 

• 21:47 - When might a high calcium score lead to stenting or bypass surgery? 

• 24:01 - Invitation for reviews and closing remarks by Dr. Lisa Hurst 

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Don't make any decisions about your medical treatment without first talking to your doctor.

Learn more about HealthSpanMD at HealthSpanMD.com  

Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube 

This show is produced by Mathew Blades and Sam Robertson.