Does a normal stress test rule out heart issues?

[lwillia1]

I have also had anormal holter monitor. I am still having chest, neck and left shoulder/arm pain. Am I still at risk?

[Billvalpo]

Your physical condition can also affect the interpretation of results with a normal stress test.  I was experiencing shortness of breath during exercise so had a stress test which showed I had no problems.  However, I told the doctor I did have a problem and he conducted an Echo stress test which showed a problem which was confirmed when an angiogram showed I had 3 clogged arteries.  The normal stress test didn't show the problem because I run a lot.

[lwillia1]

Thank you all for your comments. I forgot to mention that I am only a 24 yr old female. I'm not in great shape, but not obese. I had the stress test and holter about 3 months ago. I am in physical therapy for muscle tension headaches and neck pain. I am wondering if neck issues such as a pinched nerve in the neck could be the cause of this. I feel a raw sensation in my chest and throat after exercise also.

[erijon]

While it is true, that in some cases you can have a normal stress test and drop dead of a heart attack that afternoon, but you need to know the mechanics. The normal stress test that Tim Russert had could very well have been normal as cath could have been the day he died. All it takes is one vulnerable plaque to break free and cause a clot or blockage further down. You can also have an unrelated electrical problem that does not show up on a stress test, it does happen.

A normal stress test does generally come with a good prognosis. You will always hear about the exceptions because the thousands and thousands of people that have normal stress tests with no other issues just don't post.

I think you should request further tests if you are still having symptoms. Remember, other than a cath, nothing is 100% accurate.

Good luck!

Jon

[Flycaster305]

A correction, but your point is well-directed.  Tim Russert had the stress test April 29, and died June 13.  
I agree with both mammo and ed34.  I'd suggest an echocardiogram as well to rule out heart valve, etc problems as well.

[ed34]

I have a 100% blocked LAD and a very diseased RCA. My stress test in 2007 lasted for
30 minutes and showed no problems at all. My nuclear perfusion scan also shows no
problems, it shows a heart as fit as an ox. The only true way to tell is by an angiogram
because you are looking directly into the coronary arteries.

[mammo]

Not always.  I remind people of Tim Russert who died on the same day he had a normal stress test that morning.  I would asks for additional testing.  Then check to rule out any nerve problems, you may have a nerve pinched some where.