Cardiovascular disease is a serious public health issue, more so as obesity and sedentary lifestyles become more common. Early detection of heart problems can help patients seek effective treatments and prevent progression to severe disease.
One hallmark diagnostic procedure is the nuclear stress test, which assesses how well the heart performs under stressful conditions. The nuclear stress test can provide information about the extent of heart disease and guide doctors toward the appropriate treatments for their patients.
The Nuclear Stress Test Procedure
Cardiac stress testing involves examining heart function under significant stress. As such, an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine is frequently used to examine the electrical signals coming from the heart for any abnormalities.
Nuclear stress testing is distinguished by the additional use of imaging to see blood flow throughout the heart. Before the stress test begins, patients receive an injection containing a radiotracer, allowing blood flow to be traced on the scanning machine. The radiotracer goes wherever blood flow is sufficient, allowing for a clear picture of how the heart muscle receives blood.
Doctors may also require patients to wear a breathing apparatus to track breathing patterns during the test.
As the test starts, patients start using a treadmill or stationary bike, gradually increasing the pace as instructed by the doctor. For patients unable to engage in physical activity, they may instead receive medication that stimulates the heart to beat faster. As the heart rate increases, doctors take EKG readings and images of blood flow within the heart.
The test stops after the patient reaches the target heart rate or if there are signs that the cardiovascular system is at maximum capacity. The test can also end if the patient feels uncomfortable continuing. At the end of the test, patients have to stand still or lie down as doctors capture another set of EKG readings and heart images.
The test should only take a few hours. Cardiac stress testing is an outpatient procedure, and no overnight hospital stays are necessary unless the patient develops concerning symptoms after the test.
Benefits of Nuclear Stress Test
Nuclear stress testing can check blood flow throughout the heart at various heart rates. As a highly active organ, the heart requires a rich blood supply to function properly. Stress testing can help characterize conditions that compromise blood supply, such as coronary artery blockages or scarring from a previous heart attack.
The varying levels of heart stimulation are also essential for the test. Some areas of the heart may only receive insufficient blood supply when under stress, so imaging done when the patient is at rest will be unable to detect any issues.
Like all forms of cardiac stress testing, nuclear stress testing also helps assess overall cardiovascular function. If the heart can continue functioning normally even at high loads, then the patient is likely to have high levels of cardiovascular fitness. EKG machines can also detect abnormalities in electrical activity called arrhythmias, some of which only emerge when the heart is stressed.
How to Prepare for a Nuclear Stress Test
Doctors typically order nuclear stress testing after a cardiovascular consult to get more information about heart function. Any substances that can impact the cardiovascular system can impact the results of stress testing. In particular, you should avoid caffeine and other stimulants at least a day before testing. Smoking is also not advised, as it can constrict the blood vessels.
You should also disclose all regular medications you take before the test. Depending on the particular medication, your doctor may tweak dosages or ask to have certain drugs paused to get more accurate readings. Consulting with your doctor on prescription medication changes minimizes risk and helps maximize the utility of stress testing.
Make sure to also wear comfortable clothes, including sneakers, on the day of the test to make it easier to move around.
Preventing Risks
Nuclear stress testing is safe, but like all medical procedures, it comes with a small risk of complications. Any physical or chemical stimulus to the heart can slightly increase the risk of arrhythmias and, very rarely, heart attacks. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to the radiotracer. Low blood pressure or other systemic reactions to the radiotracer may occur during and after testing.
The use of EKG and imaging during the nuclear stress test means that doctors can stop the procedure if there are signs of any serious complications. To further reduce risk, doctors may recommend alternative diagnostic procedures for patients with severe cardiovascular diseases, especially if these conditions were not well-controlled.
Nuclear Stress Test Near Me in Irmo, SC
Patients and doctors can benefit from the abundant information provided by nuclear stress testing. By testing heart function under stress, doctors can assess problematic areas with insufficient blood flow and assess overall cardiovascular fitness. With preparation and coordination with your doctor, you can expect a safe and insightful nuclear stress test session.
Have you been asking others about a “nuclear stress test near me?” You can rely on SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation to provide nuclear stress testing and other diagnostic services. We take on a holistic approach to medicine by providing a one-stop shop covering both diagnostics and treatment. Learn more by speaking to our friendly staff over the phone at (803) 749-1111 or by scheduling an appointment online.