Heart Attack without High Cholesterol? Doctor recommends this affordable Test that can save your life

It’s a widely accepted belief that high cholesterol is the main cause of heart attacks. While that’s partially true, doctors are now warning that even people with normal cholesterol levels can suffer from heart attacks. In many recent cases, patients with seemingly “healthy” lifestyles and lab reports experienced sudden cardiac events. So, what’s going wrong?

Renowned cardiologists emphasize that cholesterol is not the only marker for heart disease risk. There are hidden dangers that traditional blood reports often miss. Fortunately, there's a simple, low-cost test that could detect these dangers early—and potentially save your life.

Then What Causes Heart Attacks?

According to Dr. Ashok Seth, one of India’s top cardiologists, plaque buildup, inflammation, and arterial blockage are major contributors to heart attacks—even when cholesterol levels are normal.

Silent plaque formation in the arteries can continue without symptoms.

People with family history, stress, diabetes, or high blood pressure are at increased risk even if their cholesterol is under control.

Lifestyle factors, including sedentary habits, poor sleep, and smoking, can damage arteries over time.

The Game-Changer: CT Coronary Calcium Score Test

Dr. Seth strongly recommends the CT Coronary Calcium Score Test for anyone over 40 (or younger if there is family history or risk factors). Here’s why:

What it is: A non-invasive CT scan that detects calcium deposits in coronary arteries, which is an early sign of atherosclerosis (artery blockage).

Cost: Usually between ₹2,000–₹5,000 in most diagnostic centers—cheaper than complex cardiac tests.

Time: Takes just 10 minutes and doesn’t require injections or hospitalization.

Accuracy: It can detect risks years before symptoms appear, unlike regular cholesterol reports.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Symptoms?

Most people think chest pain is the first sign of a heart attack, but:

50% of first heart attacks are fatal.

Many victims don’t experience any prior warning signs.

Waiting for symptoms is waiting too long.

Who Should Consider This Test?

People above 40 years of age

Diabetics or those with hypertension

Smokers or ex-smokers

Those with a family history of heart disease

People who lead a high-stress or sedentary lifestyle

What to Do After the Test?

If your calcium score is high, your doctor may recommend:

Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress reduction)

Medications to manage BP, cholesterol, or blood sugar

Further tests like stress ECG or angiography in some cases

If your score is zero or low—you gain peace of mind but must still maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Final Takeaway

Don’t rely only on cholesterol numbers to assess your heart health. Many lives have been lost despite “normal” reports. The CT Coronary Calcium Score Test is a simple, quick, and affordable tool that can provide early warning signs and potentially prevent a fatal heart attack.

If you’re over 40 or have risk factors, talk to your doctor today. One small test could make a life-saving difference.

(Disclaimer: This content including advice provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NewsCrab does not claim responsibility for this information.)

PC:Hindustan