Our Tim Simpson says a $80 test, called the Heart Calcium Test, saved his life.
A few months ago, Tim told his story.
Dr. Bill Russo, a specialist at Stern Cardiovascular Clinic in Germantown, showed Tim and his wife an image of his heart, complete with a critical buildup of plaque, caused by cholesterol, high blood pressure and other factors.
What gave him the image: a heart calcium scan.
A test that’s not invasive, with no shots, no I-V’s and just a few electrodes attached to his chest.
That image suggested Simpson would be the perfect candidate for heart catherization surgery.
What it does is use balloon angioplasty and stents to open clogged arteries surrounding the heart.
The images of Tim’s heart, “before and after,” made him realize just how close he came to heart failure.
It also came with a price: change your lifestyle or fall back into the same situation.
Now, Tim has to cut out high-cholesterol and most fried foods.
The test is only $80, but it’s not for everyone.
Those above a certain age, with a history of heart problems, high blood pressure or high cholesterol could benefit from the test.
Consult your physician before having any tests done.
