What Is A Nuclear Stress Test?
A cardiologist may perform different types of stress test to asses the condition of your heart, including a nuclear stress test. A nuclear stress test, also known as myocardial perfusion imagining, shows how well blood flows to the heart muscle. Nuclear stress test requires the use of IV injection, so patients will need to follow a certain preparation requirement before they start their test. A nuclear stress test is performed to identify the cause of chest pain, asses the level of physical activity a patient can perform, check the extent of coronary artery blockage, and asses damage after a heart attack.
What To Expect During A Nuclear Stress Test
With a nuclear stress test, an IV is injected into the hand or arm. A radioactive tracer is injected and circulates for 30 minutes. While the tracer is circulating, images are taken of the heart at rest. During the stress portion of the test, a tracer may need to be injected a few more times to obtain the desired images; you may also receive a medication to increase blood flow to the heart.
Patients who undergo a nuclear stress test will need to follow pre-test and post-test instructions. Buckeye Heart & Vascular performs nuclear stress test in our Beavercreek, OH, location.
Benefits Of A Nuclear Stress Test
The nuclear stress test can help to diagnose a heart condition by giving vital information.
This data includes:
- The Size Of The Heart Chambers
- How Well The Heart Is Pumping Blood
- Whether There Is Any Damage To The Heart
- If there is any blockage or narrowing of The Coronary Arteries That Provide Blood To The Heart
- The Effectiveness Of Any Current Treatment.
The test can also help determine whether the patient is suitable for a cardiac rehabilitation program, and if so, how hard they should exercise.
Why Would I Need To Do A Nuclear Stress Test?
You might need a nuclear stress test if a routine stress test didn’t pinpoint the cause of symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath. A nuclear stress test may also be used to guide your treatment if you’ve been diagnosed with a heart condition.
Schedule An Appointment
Buckeye Heart & Vascular Institute offers a full range of diagnostic imaging and testing for patients in need. If you would like to learn more about our services, call 937-203-8602 or request an appointment online.