Cardiologists rely on nuclear stress testing generally for its life-saving capabilities. Among its important uses is that it helps cardiologists identify the underlying cause of persistent shortness of breath and chest pain, whether they point to coronary artery disease, and, if they do, determine its severity.
Nonetheless, just like any other test, nuclear stress testing entails adequate preparation to yield a successful outcome. Below we’ve provided some information to help you prepare for a nuclear stress test.
Getting Ready for Your Nuclear Stress Test
To get you prepared for your nuclear stress test, your cardiologist will provide you with detailed pre-procedure instructions, which will likely include the following:
- Do not smoke 24 hours or more prior, as nicotine can interfere with the results. Likewise, you shouldn’t drink anything that is caffeinated (e.g., coffee, tea, etc.).
- If your test is scheduled in the morning, do not eat breakfast. However, if you are diabetic, you may be allowed to have a light meal. If your appointment is in the afternoon, you may eat a regular breakfast before 10 a.m. Drink at least two glasses of water before the appointment since an IV will be administered during the procedure.
- You should take any prescribed medication as you normally would unless your doctor says otherwise. If your test includes an exercise stress test, in which you will be instructed to walk on a treadmill, stop taking beta-blockers 24 hours prior.
If you aren’t able to do the exercise stress test, stop taking Aggrenox/persantin, theophylline/aminophylline, and similar medications for 48 hours before your test. In either case, bring a list of your prescribed medications.
- If you are doing an exercise stress test, wear appropriate clothing and sneakers. Leave your jewelry at home and don’t wear clothing with metal buttons as they may also interfere with the imaging. Since you will be given an IV and your blood pressure will be frequently monitored, wear a short-sleeved shirt.
- Additionally, make sure to not apply any oil, lotion, or powder to your chest.
Nuclear Stress Testing in Boca Raton, Florida
Here at Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute in Boca Raton, Florida, nuclear stress testing belongs to the vast array of healthcare services we offer, as part of our goal of providing the people in our community with comprehensive care.
As strong proponents of preventative health care, our dedicated interventional cardiologists take great pleasure in sharing useful information about these procedures to empower patients to make the most educated decisions about their health care.
To learn more about nuclear stress testing and our other services or to arrange a consultation with one of our cardiologists, contact Advanced Heart and Vascular Institute today at (561) 235-5621. If you prefer, you may also use our convenient online request-an-appointment form. We look forward to serving you!
