Connect
← Return to What's a nuclear stress test like? Is it safe?
Discussion
What's a nuclear stress test like? Is it safe?
Heart Rhythm Conditions | Last Active: Oct 5, 2023 | Replies (70)Comment receiving replies
In another post, you may have learned my husband, a heart attack survivor, must go in for another procedure in the near future. His Cardiologist has asked for a stress test prior to the Neurosurgeon's performing the procedure (I assume another stent). My husband, though ambulatory, is unable to walk at a brisk pace. Ergo, a traditional treadmill stress test is off the table. The alternative? They are going to get his heart pumping fast by injecting something into him!!!! Has anybody heard of this? Does anyone know the name of the drug they will be injecting into my husband? Is this procedure common enough to have a history of safety, well controlled administration of this drug? I'm a bit alarmed by the idea... Many thanks for any and all info!
Replies to "In another post, you may have learned my husband, a heart attack survivor, must go in..."
Hi Frenchie, I see you got 2 very helpful replies from @loribmt and @rosemarya. I can imagine that just hearing the words “chemically-induced stress” can send you into high anxiety mode. Sometimes this test is also referred to as the nuclear stress test. That probably doesn’t sound much better does it.
As others have said, this test was developed for people who are not well enough to take the treadmill version to observe one’s heart at full exertion. All heart stress tests are done under close observation and patient safety is the top priority.
I actually moved your post to this existing discussion called:
- What's a nuclear stress test like? Is it safe? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/nuclear-medicine-stress-test/
I did this so you can see the previous posts from members asking many of the same questions you’re asking and the helpful replies they got from other other members who have had the test. I encourage you to read through the discussion and ask any questions that you may still have about what it is like and what to expect or anything.
Is your husband nervous about having the test?
Connect
Hi @frenchie333 The thought of a chemically induced stress test does sound alarming. But they are done fairly routinely for people who are unable to participate in a usual stress test with the treadmill. A Dobutamine stress test is used in those cases instead of a physical stress test. The chemical produces the same effect on the heart rate as physical exercise, and heart function can be diagnosed with echocardiography.
I found a quick-read article that might be helpful.
https://www.medicalhealthtests.com/medical-tests/dobutamine-stress-test.html
While there are always some slight risks with any stress test, your husband has already faced a heart attack. This test will help him eliminate another. He’ll be well attended and monitored all during the procedure it takes around an hour to complete.
When is his test scheduled?