artery CT scan preparation

Overview

An artery CT scan is a special type of X-ray that takes detailed pictures of your arteries. It helps doctors see if your arteries are narrowed, blocked, or have weak spots. You usually receive an injection of a contrast dye to make the arteries show up clearly on the scan.

Artery CT scans are a common diagnostic tool used when doctors suspect a problem with your arteries, such as blockages or aneurysms.

This scan can be recommended for people of any age, but it's most often used in adults who have risk factors for artery disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart problems.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Leg pain when walking (claudication)
• Sudden severe headache (possible sign of an aneurysm)

Symptoms in children

• Artery CT scans are rarely used in children. If ordered, symptoms might include unexplained chest pain or a known heart condition.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have more complex artery conditions, so the scan can assess multiple areas at once.

Causes

Main causes

• An artery CT scan is used to look for problems like atherosclerosis (build-up of fatty deposits narrowing arteries), aneurysms (bulging weak spots), or blood clots.

Risk factors

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Being overweight
• Family history of heart disease or aneurysms
• Age (risk increases with age)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden chest pain, severe headache, or symptoms of a stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech), call your local emergency number immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing symptoms like chest discomfort or leg pain when walking, make an appointment with your GP or specialist.

Diagnosis

An artery CT scan is itself a diagnostic test. It provides detailed images of your arteries, which a radiologist (a doctor trained in reading scans) will review.

Tests that may be done

• CT angiography (the artery CT scan)

What to expect at your appointment

You will be asked to lie on a table that slides into a doughnut-shaped machine. A small IV line will be placed in your arm to inject the contrast dye. You may feel a warm flush when the dye goes in, which is normal. The machine will take several pictures while you hold your breath. The whole process usually takes less than an hour.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what the scan shows. If it reveals narrowed or blocked arteries, doctors may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or procedures to open the arteries. If an aneurysm is found, you may need monitoring or surgery to repair it.

Self-care at home

• Follow your doctor's advice about diet, exercise, and quitting smoking.
• Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control with the help of your healthcare team.
• Stay active within your limits – ask your doctor what activities are safe for you.

Medical treatments

Based on scan results, your doctor may prescribe medications to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, or prevent blood clots. They may also refer you to a specialist for further tests or procedures like angioplasty (widening a narrowed artery with a balloon) or stent placement.

When is surgery considered?

If a large aneurysm or a severely blocked artery is found, surgery (such as bypass grafting or aneurysm repair) may be needed. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits with you.

Living with this condition

After the scan, you can return to normal activities unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you learn you have an artery condition, follow your treatment plan and attend regular check-ups.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat a heart-healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days, as approved by your doctor.
• If you smoke, seek help to quit – your GP or local health service can support you.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet low in salt, saturated fat, and added sugars can help keep your arteries healthy. Regular exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling improves blood flow and strengthens your heart.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for scan results or learning you have an artery problem can cause anxiety. It's normal to feel worried. Talk to your doctor or a trusted friend. If you feel overwhelmed, consider speaking with a counsellor or mental health professional.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk of artery disease by adopting a healthy lifestyle – eating well, staying active, not smoking, and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. An artery CT scan itself is a test, not a treatment, but it helps guide prevention strategies.

Screening programmes

If you have a strong family history of aneurysms or early heart disease, your doctor may recommend a screening scan even without symptoms. Otherwise, routine screening is not usually needed.

Complications

If left untreated

• If the condition found on the scan is not treated, it could lead to a heart attack, stroke, or aneurysm rupture.

Long-term outlook

Thanks to modern imaging and treatments, many artery conditions can be managed effectively. Following your doctor's recommendations greatly reduces your risk of serious problems. Most people who have an artery condition live full, active lives with proper care.

Find support

Local organisations

• Your local NHS hospital radiology department · UK

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