How long does radiation stay in your body after a nuclear stress test?
The radioactive liquid will be in your body for 24 to 36 hours after your test. You will need to do the following: Drink plenty of liquids as directed. This will help flush the radioactive liquid out of your body.
Why would a cardiologist order a nuclear stress test?
A nuclear stress test is an advanced diagnostic tool for finding the cause of new or worsening chest pain, stratifying risk for heart disease, deciding how well treatment is progressing, and/or evaluating recovery after a heart attack. Most of the stress tests performed by Heart House physicians are done in the office.
What dye is used in nuclear stress test?
In the nuclear stress test with exercise, a radionuclide, such as thallium or technetium, is injected into a vein in the hand or arm. When the radionuclide has circulated through the blood stream, a gamma camera takes pictures of the heart while the patient is lying down. This is known as the “rest scan” of the heart.
Does a nuclear stress test show blockages?
The nuclear stress test shows how blood is flowing to your heart. The test can find blockages and identify damage from a prior heart attack.
How will I feel after a nuclear stress test?
Dizziness or chest pain. These symptoms can occur during a nuclear stress test. Some people also have nausea, shakiness, headache, flushing, shortness of breath and anxiety during the stress test. These signs and symptoms are usually mild and brief, but tell your doctor if they occur.
Why do they numb your throat for a nuclear stress test?
A sedative is a medicine that helps you feel relaxed. You are also given medicine (local anesthetic) to numb your throat. This helps you feel more comfortable during the procedure. An exercise stress test measures how your heart deals with the stress of physical activity.
What should I avoid after a nuclear stress test?
Caffeine can alter the test results. Do not eat chocolate or drink coffee, tea, soda, colas or other caffeinated beverages such Mountain Dew or energy drinks. If you are unsure, do not drink it. See the table below for more details.
Should someone accompany you to a stress test?
Friends/family are welcome to accompany you to the office but are not allowed in the testing area due to our privacy policy. Allow approximately 90 minutes for the test. Test results will be communicated to you by your physician.
Why do they numb your throat for a stress test?
How long does the average person last on a stress test?
A stress test usually takes about an hour, including both prep time and the time it takes to do the actual test. The actual exercise test takes only around 15 minutes.
Do you walk or run during a stress test?
You walk on a treadmill during the stress test, so wear your athletic shoes and loose, comfortable clothing. You’ll temporarily remove your shirt when the technician places electrodes on your chest. If you smoke, you need to stop at least 24 hours before the test.
How accurate is a nuclear stress test?
Gold standard: Nuclear stress tests in experienced hands have a sensitivity of 80-85% and specificity around 90%. If done with exercise (as opposed to pharmacologica… Read More How accurate are nuclear stress tests? if they only come up positive with a 65% blockage then is that a reliable test for ischemia?
What are the side effects of a nuclear stress test?
Purpose of Test. The nuclear stress test is most often performed to help diagnose whether coronary artery disease is the cause of unexplained symptoms,especially episodes of chest pain or
How do you interpret your nuclear stress test results?
Before a nuclear stress test. Your doctor will ask you some questions about your medical history and how often and actively you exercise.
How safe is nuclear stress test?
Patients Are Carefully Monitored. Patients are constantly monitored during and after a nuclear stress test.