Nuclear Stress Test (Exercise)

Nuclear stress testing is a test used to evaluate the heart’s function and blood flow to the heart. Most notably it is used to look for blockages in the arteries to the heart which may cause chest pain or shortness of breath. This test combines a standard exercise stress test with imaging of the blood flow to the heart. Prior to the standard exercise stress test an intravenous line is placed an you are given a dose of nuclear medicine. A picture of the heart is then taken. A standard exercise stress test is then performed, following by a second set of pictures. The exercise stress test entails walking on a treadmill with graded increase in exercise.

The whole procedure will take about 2 hours. The test is very safe with few potential complications.