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Nuclear Stress Test

A nuclear stress test is performed to assess your blood flow at rest, during exertion, and after medication.

What Is A Nuclear Stress Test?

Nuclear Stress test allows your doctor to identify areas of your heart with reduced blood flow.

The full test typically includes imaging of your heart both at rest and under stress, either from exercise or medication.

It is one of the diagnostic tools used to evaluate the risk of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD).

What Are the Preparation Steps for a Nuclear Stress Test?

You may be instructed to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking for a certain period before a nuclear stress test. Additionally, you will likely need to avoid caffeine both the day before and the day of the test, as it can artificially raise your heart rate and lead to inaccurate results.

72 Hours Before

If you’re taking Aggrenox, discontinue the medication three days prior to the exam.

24 Hours Before Your Test

The Day of Your Test

What Is the Purpose of a Nuclear Stress Test?

Your doctor may recommend a Nuclear Stress Test if you experience symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath, as routine stress tests don’t always identify the underlying cause of these issues.

The test can also assist in guiding treatment if you’re diagnosed with heart conditions such as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) or arrhythmia. It helps assess how effective your current treatment is and allows your doctor to adjust your care plan accordingly. Additionally, it provides insight into how much exercise your heart can handle safely.

Does a Nuclear Stress Test Identify Blocked Arteries?

A primary reason for performing a Nuclear Stress Test is to assess whether blood is flowing freely through your coronary arteries. It helps detect blockages and damage in the blood vessels of the heart.

What is the Duration of a Nuclear Stress Test?

A Nuclear Stress Test consists of two parts: one while at rest and another during exercise. The entire process typically takes between three and five hours.

What Happens During a Stress Test?

When you arrive, your doctor will ask about your medical history and your physical activity habits.

Before the test begins, a technician will insert an intravenous (IV) line into your hand or arm and attach electrodes (patches) to your chest, arms, and legs. These electrodes connect to an electrocardiogram (ECG) machine that monitors your heartbeat. A cuff will also be placed around your arm to measure changes in your blood pressure during the test.

During the resting portion of the test, a radioactive dye will be injected into your bloodstream via the IV, and images of your heart will be taken to assess blood flow while at rest.

For the stress portion of the test, you will either walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike. If you cannot exercise adequately, medication will be given through the IV to stimulate your heart. Afterward, more radioactive dye will be injected into your bloodstream, and additional images of your heart will be captured using equipment similar to an X-ray machine.

The two sets of images help the doctor evaluate how well blood flows to your heart both at rest and under stress.

Depending on the medication used, side effects may include shortness of breath or flushing, similar to the effects of exercise.

If you’re exercising, the treadmill will start at a slow pace and gradually increase in speed. The doctor will ask you not to grip the railing tightly, as it may affect the results. If you’re using a stationary bike, the resistance will increase as the test progresses.

The test continues until your heart reaches a target heart rate, but you can ask your doctor to stop the test if you feel uncomfortable.

What Is the Follow-Up Process After a Stress Test?

Once the test is finished, you can resume your normal activities unless your doctor advises otherwise. The radioactive material will naturally exit your body through your urine or stool. Be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush the dye from your system.

What Are the Possible Risks of a Nuclear Stress Test?

Although the test involves some exposure to radiation, a Nuclear Stress Test is generally considered safe. Complications are rare but may include:

Are There Other Treatments Related to This?

An alternative to a nuclear stress test is an exercise stress test, where the patient runs on a treadmill while EKG electrodes are attached to monitor and assess cardiac activity.

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