You may have heard that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. While lifestyle choices can increase your risk of heart disease, genetics also play a role. Research shows that people with a family history of heart disease are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
Unfortunately, you can’t control your genetics. However, you can reduce your risk of heart disease with advanced cardiac imaging. Through highly accurate visuals, this unique technology can assist with early heart disease detection. Let’s take a closer look at how it works and where you can find a cardiac CT scan in Tampa.
What Is Cardiac CT Scanning and How Does It Work?
Cardiac CT (computed tomography) scanning is a non-invasive imaging technique that produces detailed, cross-sectional images of the heart and its blood vessels. During the procedure, the CT scanner captures multiple images of the heart from different angles in rapid succession. These images are then reconstructed into a high-resolution, 3D representation of the heart, allowing doctors to examine the following:
- Anatomy of the heart
- Blood flow
- Coronary arteries
- Heart chambers
- Abnormalities (such as plaque buildup in the coronary arteries)
Because cardiac CT scanning is non-invasive, it eliminates the need for catheters or surgical incisions, making it a safer, faster alternative to traditional diagnostic methods.
Why Is Early Detection of Heart Disease Crucial for Tampa Residents?
When it comes to heart disease, it’s best to recognize symptoms sooner rather than later. Early diagnosis allows you to intervene before symptoms worsen, reducing the need for intensive care. Early heart disease detection is especially critical in Tampa due to the area’s high-risk population. Tampa has a substantial number of older adults, increasing the overall risk of heart disease. In fact, statistics show that heart disease is the number one cause of death in Florida.
On the bright side, advanced cardiac imaging can go a long way toward reducing risks. Here are some key benefits of cardiac CT scanning in Tampa:
- Improved treatment outcomes: Early intervention can slow the progression of heart disease and help prevent life-threatening events like heart attacks or strokes.
- Lower healthcare costs: In general, treating heart disease early is more affordable than managing emergency or late-stage complications.
- Better quality of life: Timely diagnosis allows Tampa residents to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle and avoid the uncomfortable symptoms associated with advanced heart disease.
How Does Cardiac CT Scanning Compare to Traditional Heart Screening Methods?
For years, people have relied on screening methods such as stress tests and angiograms. While these tools can help diagnose heart conditions, cardiac CT scans stand out for their speed, precision and non-invasive nature. Here are some key advantages of a cardiac CT scan in Tampa:
- Greater Accuracy: Cardiac CT scans provide highly detailed, 3D images of the heart and coronary arteries, leading to more accurate diagnoses.
- Faster Results: The entire scan takes just a few minutes, with image processing completed shortly after.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike traditional angiograms, which involve inserting a catheter into the arteries, cardiac CT scans don’t require any invasive surgical tools.
- Patient Comfort: While stress tests require physical exertion, CT scans are rather relaxing and prioritize patient comfort.
Who Should Consider Cardiac CT Scanning in Tampa?
Anyone who is worried about their heart health can benefit from getting a heart disease screening in Tampa. That being said, some individuals have a higher risk of developing heart complications than others. Here are some common risk factors:
- Family history: As mentioned earlier, having a family history of heart disease can increase your risk.
- Older age: Older adults are more likely to experience heart problems.
- Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Things like poor diet, lack of physical exercise and smoking can increase your heart disease risk.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, are linked to increased heart disease risk.
- Chest problems: If you frequently experience unexplained chest pain or discomfort, you should consider having your heart checked.
How South Tampa Cardiology Supports Early Heart Disease Detection with Cardiac CT Scanning in Tampa
Are you looking for high-quality, reliable heart disease screening in Tampa? South Tampa Cardiology is here to help. We treat patients using the Arineta Spotlight CT Scanner, the world’s first whole-heart, single-beat dedicated scanner. Known for its low doses of radiation and high speed, our scanner is unparalleled in terms of accuracy.
Not only do we have some of the most advanced cardiac imaging available, but we also provide an expert team. This includes Dr. Morales, who is certified in both preventative cardiology and imaging. No matter what heart problems you’re dealing with, you can trust us to deliver a personalized, compassionate approach. Protect your heart health by scheduling an appointment today!