The nuclear stress test is one of the most popular cardiac tests used to diagnose and monitor heart problems. This test is also named as myocardial perfusion imaging, cardiac PET (positron emission tomography), and cardiac SPECT (single photon emission computed tomography). A myocardial perfusion imaging test is performed by injecting a small amount of radioactive substance called a tracer into the bloodstream. Patients’ blood vessels and heart muscles absorb this radioactive substance, ... [Read More]
Nuclear Medicine
What Are The Benefits of a Nuclear Stress Test?
Your heart health is so precious. So, if your internal medicine doctor expresses concern about your health risks or cardiac symptoms you are experiencing–like shortness of breath, irregular heart rate, or pain–you may need a nuclear stress test. This in-office diagnostic test provides valuable information about your heart health so treatment planning can begin. Here, we will take a look at the details of the test and its benefits. What is a Nuclear Stress Test? Nuclear stress testing has ... [Read More]
What is a Nuclear Stress Test?
No need to “stress” about getting a nuclear stress test. Your heart health is extremely important. If your heart isn’t functioning properly, not only does your quality of life suffer, your life itself becomes at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in the United States, about 610,000 people die of heart disease (also known as cardiovascular disease) every year. This means one in every four deaths are due to heart disease. Early action is crucial for preventing death ... [Read More]
How To Prepare for a Nuclear Stress Test
At rest, your heart may appear to be working fine. However, when you physically exert yourself, your heart rate and blood flow increase in order to be able to provide your cells with more oxygen and nutrients (oxygen-rich blood), circulating blood to and from the heart. The heart beats harder and faster, raising blood pressure. If for any reason your heart cannot pump blood in and out properly, you are more at risk for a heart attack or stroke. For this reason, doctors sometimes suggest a ... [Read More]
