If you live in Brunswick East and are concerned about your heart health, you’ve probably heard terms like cholesterol levels and calcium score. But what do they actually mean, and how are they connected? At Lygon Everyday Chemist, we often get asked about this, so let’s clear up the confusion.

What is a Calcium Score?

A calcium score, also known as a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, is a result from a special type of CT scan that detects calcium buildup in your heart’s arteries. The more calcium, the higher your score—and the higher your risk of heart disease.

• Score of 0 = No visible plaque > Low risk
• 1–100 = Some plaque > Mild risk
• 101–400 = Moderate plaque > Moderate risk
• Over 400 = Significant plaque > High risk

This test helps doctors predict your risk of a heart attack before symptoms appear.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood. Your body needs it, but too much—especially LDL (“bad” cholesterol)—can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

There are two key types:

• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – “Bad” cholesterol
• HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – “Good” cholesterol

How are Calcium Scores and Cholesterol Linked?

While high cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup, not everyone with high cholesterol has a high calcium score, and vice versa. That’s why doctors use both to get a clearer picture of your heart health.

• Cholesterol shows risk factors in your blood.
• Calcium score shows actual signs of plaque in your arteries.

You could have:

• Normal cholesterol but a high calcium score > Plaque is already forming.
• High cholesterol but a low calcium score > Risk is there, but no visible damage yet.

Which Test Should I Get First?

Your doctor might start with a blood test to check cholesterol. If you’re over 40, have risk factors (like family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, or you’re a smoker), they may also suggest a calcium score scan.

Always talk to your GP or pharmacist before deciding.

Top Asked Questions at Lygon Everyday Chemist Brunswick east:

1. Is calcium score better than cholesterol test?

No, they measure different things. Calcium score shows actual plaque; cholesterol shows risk. Both are valuable together.

2. Can I have a heart attack with a calcium score of 0?

Yes, but the risk is very low. It’s still important to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and lifestyle.

3. Does high cholesterol mean I’ll have a high calcium score?

Not always. Some people with high cholesterol have clean arteries. That’s why both tests matter.

4. Where can I get heart health checks in Brunswick East?

You can visit Lygon Everyday Chemist for information on getting cholesterol screening, blood pressure checks, and referral information for calcium score scans.

How Lygon Everyday Chemist Can Help

As your local heart health partner in Brunswick East, we provide:

• Cholesterol checks
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Lifestyle advice to lower heart disease risk
• Support with heart medications and supplements (e.g. CoQ10, omega-3s, plant sterols)

Speak with our pharmacists today about managing cholesterol and understanding your heart risk.

Visit Lygon Everyday Chemist today — because prevention is the always the best therapy!