Basic Facts On The Cardiac Stress Test

Some types of heart disease are quite difficult to differentiate from pulmonary of other cardiovascular disease. One of the most important investigations that re used to diagnose and determine the severity of heart disease is the cardiac stress test. The investigation is available in Princeton and involves the subject being taken through an exercise routine for a specified duration of time with an intention of determining how the rhythm is affected by a reduction in the blood supply.

There are a number of different types of this investigation that can be performed. One of the types includes the use of the treadmill. One is connected to a machine known as an electrocardiogram, ECG, which determines the heart rhythm. The doctor will determine how far one can walk before they start experiencing chest pain or the ECG begins to show abnormalities.

The Dobutamine (Adenosine) Stress Test is offered to persons that cannot take part in exercise activities. Dobutamine and adenosine have the ability to simulate the heart changes that occur when one exercises. Assessment is similar to what happens with the use of the treadmill. A stress echocardiogram uses graphic images (ultrasound) of the heart. The pattern of movement can be directly visualized when changes their state from that of rest to that of physical strain.

The nuclear stress test is another helpful investigation that can be considered. It involves the use of a small dose of a radioactive material that is introduced into the body intravenously. The substance spreads to all the parts of the body including the heart. A special detector helps identify the rays that are emitted by the substance. Those from the heart can be projected onto a monitor where they appear as a clear image both at rest and during exercise.

As part of the preparation, there are a number of things that one needs to do. The general advice is that one should fast for at least 4 hours before the investigation. Caffeine is likely to affect the results and should be avoided for at least 12 hours prior to the exercise. Drugs to be avoided include isosorbide mononitrate and isosorbide dinitrate.

Apart from diagnosing abnormalities in heart flow within the heart, the stress test has several other benefits. For instance, it is important in monitoring the effectiveness of drugs used to treat angina. When treatment is initiated, persons with angina are expected to have increased tolerance to exercise. Another important role is its use in the assessment of valve function especially in patients that have had artificial valves implanted.

There are several situations where this investigation is contraindicated. For instance, it should not be administered to persons who have experienced myocardial infarction in the last 48 hours because of the risk of aggravating the condition. It should also not be done in people who have already been found to have abnormal rhythm but are not yet on treatment.

Making a diagnosis of a cardiac conditions usually requires a wide range of tests. These tests are needed to firstly, confirm that a heart abnormality exists and secondly, to identify the exact condition. The cardiac (ECG) stress test is among those that are commonly used for screening. Other tests are usually needed to determine the exact diagnosis.