Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in the UK — and it often develops silently. Many people have no symptoms until they experience a heart attack, sudden chest pain, or breathlessness.
The good news is that modern, non-invasive screening tools are now available to detect heart disease at its earliest and most treatable stages. In Swindon, Great Western Hospitals Private Healthcare, patients can now access comprehensive assessments including CT coronary angiogram which can detect coronary artery disease.
What is Coronary Artery Disease?
CAD occurs when fatty deposits (plaques) accumulate inside the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. Over time, these arteries narrow, reducing blood flow. This can lead to symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, or – in some cases – a sudden heart attack.
Importantly, this process often begins many years before any symptoms develop. That’s why early screening is so important.
Who should consider Heart Disease Screening?
Screening can help detect CAD before symptoms occur, potentially preventing serious complications.
You may benefit from a screening assessment if you:
- Have a family history of early heart disease (premature coronary artery disease)
- Have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes mellitus
- Are a smoker or former smoker
- Are overweight or physically inactive
- Experience unexplained fatigue, chest tightness, or breathlessness
- Want to proactively assess cardiovascular risk
Early detection allows for early action — which can significantly reduce long-term health risks.
What is a CT Coronary Angiogram?
A CT coronary angiogram is a specialised heart scan that provides detailed 3D images of the coronary arteries. It helps doctors assess the presence of:
- Narrowing of the coronary arteries
- Early plaque (fatty deposits) build-up
- Structural abnormalities
This scan is non-invasive, quick, and performed in a hospital setting. It is often used when there is suspicion of coronary artery disease or in patients with intermediate or unclear cardiovascular risk profiles.
In Swindon, at Great Western Hospitals Private Healthcare, CT coronary angiogram is available privately and offers a rapid, accurate way to visualise coronary health without the need for catheterisation.
What is CaRi-Heart and when is it used?
CaRi-Heart is a new tool that can be used alongside a CT coronary angiogram to enhance risk assessment. It uses artificial intelligence (AI) to analyse inflammation in the coronary arteries — even before visible plaque is present.
The technology provides two key pieces of information:
- Fat Attenuation Index (FAI): Indicates inflammation in the artery wall
- CaRi-Heart Risk Score: Predicts the personalised risk of a future heart attack
CaRi-Heart is not required for all patients but can be useful in those with:
- Normal or mildly narrowed arteries, but who remain at moderate risk
- Unexplained symptoms without obvious structural disease
- A strong family history of heart disease
While not a substitute for standard imaging, it adds an extra layer of detail that may help guide preventive treatment in selected cases.
What is included in a Heart Screening Consultation?
A comprehensive heart screening typically includes:
- Medical history and cardiovascular risk assessment
- ECG (electrocardiogram)
- Blood tests (cholesterol, blood sugar, and inflammation markers)
- CT coronary angiogram
- Optional CaRi-Heart AI analysis (would require referral for specialised centre)
- Additional tests such as echocardiogram if clinically indicated
This approach gives a well-rounded picture of cardiovascular health, supporting informed decisions about lifestyle, medication, and further follow-up.
What happens if Coronary Artery Disease is detected?
If signs of early or advanced disease are found, personalised management options are available. These may include:
- Medication to control cholesterol, blood pressure, or inflammation
- Lifestyle changes involving diet, physical activity, and stress management
Early intervention is proven to reduce the risk of future heart attacks and improve long-term health outcomes.
Where to access Coronary Artery Screening in Swindon and Wilshire area
Patients in Swindon can now access private coronary artery screening through Advanced Cardiovascular Care, led by Dr Amin, Consultant Cardiologist. With modern diagnostic tools including CT coronary angiography and access to CaRi-Heart, patients benefit from a thorough and precise evaluation of heart health.
Consultations are tailored to each individual’s needs and medical history, with quick access to scans and follow-up care.
Take Control of Your Heart Health
Heart disease doesn’t always come with a warning – but screening offers a chance to get ahead of it. Whether you have risk factors or simply want peace of mind, a CT coronary angiogram with expert interpretation can be an important step. Early detection can save lives.
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