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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
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?
Replies to "Hi @frenchie333 The thought of a chemically induced stress test does sound alarming. But they are..."
God bless, Lori! I will click on the link after I send this "thank you!" Truly grateful.
As to scheduling, I believe it's next Monday. Forgive my inability to give exact info. There's been some back and forth (telephone tag and the like).
I do know my husband was told to block out a total of four hours. So maybe the other three hours include getting him prepped beforehand and continuing to monitor him afterward.
We also need to find out if I need to be there--to get him home. A year ago, my presence was mandatory when he was getting a different diagnostic with a sedative before the injection of contract dye and scanning. Took quite some time for that sedative to wear off and he needed to be taken home by me. Don't recall if he had an angiogram or CT scan that time.
Well, time for me to click on that link! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Wish I could give you more than a virtual hug!
I had a nuclear stress test this past summer. I have had a treadmill test before as well.
I am hesitant to put chemicals in my body, however I had no side effects and I think I got a clearer picture of my heart from the nuclear stress test I would do it again if necessary!
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Hi Lori and @frenchie333, I have had 2 stress tests - and they were with the Dobutamine because I was too weak to do the treadmill test while being evaluated for my liver transplant. It was a first time test for me and those attending were very kind and could sense my fear. They explained that very step of the process and answered any questions. I felt completely safe because I was carefully monitored. I was alert and fully aware of the entire process and how closely I was being monitored to make the test safe for me. The attendants were very
observant and knew just how far to raise my heart rate to get the necessary information and to make it safe for me.
I even got to sit with my husband while waiting for the med to take effect. I think that was part of the hour. It was 13 yrs ago.