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Writer's pictureMemorial Hospital

Is a Nuclear Stress Test Right for You?


Your heart health is important to living a better and longer life. If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms you need to talk to your doctor about your heart health:

  • Moderate to severe chest pain

  • Severe shortness of breath

  • Abnormally high or low blood pressure

  • An abnormal heart rhythm

  • Dizziness

  • Fatigue

  • Certain changes in your electrocardiogram

If you suffer from the above listed, symptoms your doctor may order a nuclear stress test to determine if there is enough blood flow to your heart. A nuclear stress test can help in diagnosing coronary artery disease and detect heart rhythm problems. During the test, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill while your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored. If a patient is unable to perform physical activity to increase their heart rate, medications may be given to increase the heart rate for testing.


What are the benefits of a nuclear stress test?

  • Checks your heart function during physical activity.

  • Shows whether there are problems with blood flow.

  • Detects signs of heart disease or other heart problems.


How it works:

  • An injection is administered through the vein.

  • Your heart is scanned by a Nuclear Medicine scanner while you are reclined.

  • You will then walk on a treadmill (or a medicine may be given to you to increase your heart rate).

  • Your heart is scanned again to allow comparison between your heart at rest and your active heart.

  • Results are then provided to ordering physician.

Talk to your doctor about your heart health concerns and determine if a nuclear stress test is right for you.


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