Calcified aorta, etc

[lynnkay]

Had CT scan of the kidneys. Kidneys are fine. In the CT report it states that I have a calcified aorta and aortoiliac atherosclerosis. Going to my family doctor today to go over the report. Thinking I really need to see a cardio doctor. I am 58, a 2 time cancer survivor (most recent being breast cancer 3 years ago), former long-time smoker with COPD (the report also states that there is minor atelectasis at the lung bases), and a history of high cholesterol and triglycerides. I have made lifestyle changes. Healthy diet. The triglycerides are now within normal range. The cholesterol had come down to normal due to being on a statin. The statin was causing me to become borderline diabetic. So, cannot take the statins. Just some info on myself. Any input would be appreciated on the results of the CT scan.

[lynnkay]

Thank you for your response, Occupant. Actually, I was being tested for cancer of the renal system. Which thank God I do not have. It was just noted on the CT scan report the calcifications, etc. So, that is why I am now going to a specialist that deals with this type thing. To get answers and maybe the proper testing to check out my heart, arteries, etc.  .

[Occupant]

Why didn't they do an Angiogram? Calcification by itself doesn't mean very much especially if no Agatston score is even given.

[ed34]

I'm really sorry but until the extent of the calcification is known, there is very little which can be said. Please, if you have any questions after your appointment, don't hesitate to ask. It's the same thing with your weakened heart. It could be that you had some form of infection that attacked the muscle and you are recovering, or it could be from an old heart attack. I'm afraid it's all a mystery at the moment :(

[lynnkay]

Meant to say in above post ongoing history...not oncoming history. I might add that my father had 2 heart attacks, that he did not know he had, until his bladder cancer was discovered. Sadly, he passed at 56 from the cancer. My mother also had a history of heart problems. Not exactly sure though what type problems she had. Only that she was on heart medication. Just throwing in a little bit of history here. Might add, that I was diagnosed with COPD in 2007. So far, I am doing alright with the COPD. No oxygen. I am concerned and will be taking care of this with whatever specialist is required to address my problem and to get the answers I seek. Once again, thank you.

[lynnkay]

Thank you for your response, ed34. They just noted on the CT results that there was calcification. No number was given on the calcium levels. I am being set up with an appointment to see a specialist by my primary doctor. I was told about 6 years ago that I did have artery disease by an emergency room doctor. No specifics were given at that time. I believe it was discovered through blood work. Then, little over 3 years, during a heart echo, it was discovered that I had a slight weakening of the middle heart muscle. The heart echo was given before chemotherapy, to determine if I could receive the chemo drugs that my onocologist wanted to give to me. The chemo drugs had to be changed due to the slight weakening. Onocologist could not explain to me why there was this weakening. So, there is an oncoming history. Once again, thank you for responding to my question.

[ed34]

Do you have the calcium levels?