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What's a nuclear stress test like? Is it safe?
Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: Oct 5, 2023 | Replies (70)Comment receiving replies
Hello again, Lori! I am so glad you understand my concern about having the stress test done BEFORE sick sinus syndrome has been ruled out. I will reach out to the cardiologist's office again for more info, as you suggested. Though I filled out a form two weeks ago asking to register for the patient portal, I have yet to receive the e-mail invitation from the office to initiate the registration. (Big sigh.) So to voice mail I will go.
I have this anxious fear of being seen as a "pest," so your encouragement and concern are more comforting to me than you can know! Thank you again!
Replies to "Hello again, Lori! I am so glad you understand my concern about having the stress test..."
Advocating for your health is in no way being a pest. I second what @callalloo mentioned about, if this were for your child you wouldn’t hesitate to pester a doctor to get the best care. Well, your health is equally important.
So approach this in the perspective that the doctor works for you and is in a partnership with you to keep you healthy. Don’t apologize for asking questions. Knowledge is power. As a patient it’s natural to have questions about your health and the tests being given. In the case of this particular stress test, you see a cautionary red flag considering your symptoms. So be pleasant but remain firm in your resolve to get an answer. Have notes of what you want to say and why you have the concerns.
From experience, a reply for an email invitation to a patient portal is usually pretty quick. So you might want to check into that again as well. But definitely call. Do you ever get to speak with a receptionist or is it always voice mail?
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I think the fear of being a pest is understandable but imagine if the patient in question were your child, you'd 'pester' any doctor for any reason in the interests of getting the best care. Most doctors welcome a patient who is fully proactive in his or her own care. Those are the patients likely to actually participate in protocols that advance their health, making it rewarding for doctors to see the results of their education and training and experience.