What is a heart scan in Deerfield, FL
How does it work?
A heart scan in Deerfield, FL at Life Imaging is a non-invasive preventive screening that uses a low-dose CT scan to capture detailed images of the heart and nearby structures. It’s designed to help spot early warning signs linked to heart disease often before symptoms show up so you can make informed decisions about prevention and next steps with your doctor.
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What this heart scan is at Life Imaging
Life Imaging’s heart scan is a low-dose CT heart disease screening. The goal is to provide a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk than a checklist of risk factors alone. For many people, it functions as a baseline that helps them understand where they stand today and what to pay attention to moving forward.
What a heart scan checks for
This screening is commonly used to evaluate for signs associated with coronary artery disease and other heart-related findings. Depending on what the images show, the report may highlight risk indicators such as calcification and other structural observations around the heart. The value of the scan isn’t just the images, it's having a clear, written result you can share with your primary care provider or cardiologist.
How a heart scan appointment typically works in Deerfield, FL
A typical appointment is simple and efficient:
You check in, review a few basic health details, and then the imaging portion begins. You’ll lie on a scanning table while the CT scanner captures images. During the scan, you may be asked to stay still and briefly hold your breath so the images come out clean and readable. The scanning portion is usually completed quickly, and most people return to their normal day immediately afterward.
What to expect during the scan
Most patients describe the experience as straightforward and comfortable. There are no needles, no sedation, and no downtime. If you’re someone who feels anxious around medical tests, it helps to know that the scan itself is typically over within minutes, and the team will guide you through each step while you’re on the table.
Who should consider a heart scan in Deerfield, FL
A heart scan may be a good fit if you want proactive insight into your heart health, especially if any of these apply
- You have a family history of heart disease
- You’ve been told you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high triglycerides
- You’ve gained weight over time or you’re working to improve your cardiovascular fitness
If you are having urgent symptoms such as chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, fainting, or severe weakness, do not rely on a preventive scan to seek immediate medical care.
How to prepare for a heart scan
Preparation is usually minimal. Follow any instructions provided when you schedule. If you take medications or have prior heart-related test results, keep that information handy so your results can be interpreted in the right context. Many patients also find it helpful to arrive a little early to avoid feeling rushed.
Understanding results and next steps
After the scan, the images are reviewed and a results report is provided. If findings are reassuring, many people use the scan as confirmation and a baseline for prevention. If something is noted, the next step is typically to share the report with your primary care provider or cardiologist so they can recommend follow-up testing, monitoring, or treatment if needed. The goal is clarity and a plan, not guesswork.
Quick questions people ask about heart scans in Deefield, FL
A heart scan is generally not painful. Most people simply lie still for a short time while the scanner captures the images.
This screening is non-invasive and does not involve needles or contrast dye.
The imaging portion is typically completed in minutes. Your total visit time depends on check-in and any pre-scan steps.
Yes. Since there is no sedation and no downtime, most people drive themselves and continue with their day.
If an abnormal finding is noted, the next step is usually to review the report with your doctor to determine whether follow-up testing or care is appropriate.
No. A heart scan captures images of the heart using CT imaging, while a stress test evaluates how your heart performs under exertion. Your physician can help determine which is appropriate for your situation.
Ready to schedule a heart scan in Deerfield, FL?
If you want a clear, non-invasive look at your heart health and a practical next step for prevention, schedule a heart scan with Life Imaging in Deerfield, FL. Choose a convenient appointment time, and bring any questions you want answered so your results feel useful and easy to act on.
