Nuclear stress test Q's

I had a nuclear stress test today, I lasted the first three mins, then the incline was raised twice.  I had to stop the treadmill just at about 144bpm, which I think is about 85% of my expected.  It was supposed to be a chemically induced nuclear stress test, but they had me walking fairly fast on the treadmill.  I was very sob during the test and stopped it due to back pain in my low back.  The reason it was scheduled as a chemical induced nuclear stress test.  

Is what I experienced normal?  I think I was originally told that I did not have to do a treadmill at all?  Did I misunderstand?

I have a hx of cardiomyopathy and PE, my recent pulmonary function test showed lower than normal diffusion capactiy.  The tech commented that my BP stayed low (like 120 or so over 60), again is that normal?  Whilst I am not concerned about the test results (I have an echo on Wed) I do want to understand the process a bit more and ask the correct Q's.

Thanks in advance.

Fiona

[erijon]

Typically what happens to blood pressure during exercise is that the systolic number will rise about 20 mmg and the diastolic will only change slightly. It is normal for your blood pressure to then start to drop as you continue to exercise as more small blood vessels open up in your muscles allowing more blood to be sent to supply oxegen. This causes a drop in blood pressure, even whil exercising.

Good Luck on your echo

Tony