If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart-related symptoms, your provider may recommend a nuclear stress test. At Advanced Health Associates, our experienced cardiology team uses advanced nuclear imaging technology to evaluate blood flow to your heart, detect blockages, and assess heart function. Call today or request an appointment online to learn more about nuclear stress testing.
A nuclear stress test is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure that evaluates blood flow to the heart both at rest and during activity. During the test, a small amount of safe radioactive tracer is injected into your bloodstream. A special camera captures images of your heart, allowing your provider to identify areas with reduced blood flow or potential damage to heart muscle.
This test provides valuable information about coronary artery disease and overall heart function.
Your provider may recommend this test if you have:
Chest pain or angina
Shortness of breath with activity
History of heart attack or coronary artery disease
Abnormal EKG results
Risk factors for heart disease (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking)
The test helps detect heart problems that may not be apparent during a routine EKG or physical exam.
The test involves two main phases:
Resting images: You lie on a table while a small amount of radioactive tracer is injected. A camera takes pictures of your heart at rest.
Stress images: You exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike to increase your heart rate. If you cannot exercise, medication is used to simulate stress. Another dose of tracer is injected, and images are taken while your heart is under stress.
The entire test usually takes a few hours, is painless, and allows your provider to assess how well your heart functions under stress.
This test can help identify:
Reduced blood flow to the heart (ischemia)
Coronary artery blockages
Previous heart damage from a heart attack
Heart muscle function and pumping ability
Risk of future cardiac events
The results guide your provider in recommending medications, lifestyle changes, or further procedures like angioplasty or stenting.
Once the images are analyzed, your provider will:
Review your heart’s blood flow and function
Discuss any detected blockages or areas of concern
Recommend treatment options or further testing if needed
Provide guidance for maintaining heart health and preventing future cardiac events
Your personalized plan ensures ongoing monitoring and optimal care.
At Advanced Health Associates, we provide precise, compassionate nuclear stress testing to evaluate your heart health and guide treatment. Call the office today or request an appointment online to schedule your nuclear stress test.
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