Most people don’t think twice about their heart—until it gives them a reason to. The truth is, heart disease often builds quietly over time, without symptoms, without warning, and without giving you a chance to react. Fortunately, coronary calcium scoring is a powerful tool. It doesn’t wait for symptoms to appear. This scan gives you a clear look at what’s happening inside your arteries today, so you can make smarter choices for tomorrow.

At Life Guard Imaging in Phoenix, we believe in catching conditions before they become crises. Our coronary artery calcium scan is one of the most effective first steps in preventative care—and it’s easier than you think.

What Exactly Is a Coronary Calcium Score?

During a quick, non-invasive CT scan, we measure the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries—the vessels that feed your heart muscle. That plaque builds up silently over time, narrowing the arteries and increasing your risk of a heart attack. Your calcium score is the sum total of that plaque. The higher the score, the higher your risk.

• Zero is ideal—no plaque detected.
• Scores from 1–99 suggest mild risk.
• 100–399 is moderate.
• 400+? That’s high risk. Immediate follow-up with your physician is a must.

Your number isn’t just a statistic. It’s a conversation starter with your doctor. It’s a wake-up call or a green light. It’s your heart’s way of letting you know what’s going on—quietly, clearly, and early enough to act.

What Does This Mean for You?

Let’s say your score is elevated. That doesn’t mean you’re headed for a heart attack next week. But it does mean it’s time to tighten up your routine. Your doctor might recommend:

• Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress management).
• Cholesterol-lowering medications.
• More frequent monitoring.

If your score is low or zero? That’s great—you’re doing something right. And now you have a baseline to build from.

A Note on CT Scans

Worried about the scan itself? Don’t be. At Life Guard Imaging, we use advanced low-dose CT technology that’s fast, quiet, and not like an MRI.

• No sedation
• No contrast dye
• No tunnel
• No referrals required

You walk in, lie down, and in a few minutes, you walk out with knowledge. It’s painless, and in most cases, you’ll be in and out in under 30 minutes.

Your Next Step? Start With a Score

Heart disease doesn’t always give a warning. But, your calcium score is that warning—if you’re willing to look. Schedule your coronary artery calcium scan at Life Guard Imaging in Phoenix today—call us at (602) 755-5001 to book your appointment. Staying ahead of heart disease starts with knowing exactly where you stand.