Pharmacologic Stress test--what to expect?

[cobbler5]

To follow up from an ablation 6 weeks ago, I am to undergo a myocardial perfussion stress test (using medication rather than exercise). I am concerned because I have continued to have chest pain and some atrial flutter since my ablation, and I am aware that my heart rate will be pushed up for this procedure. I'd appreciate comments on what to expect during this procedure. Thank you.

[Barnabas]

A messed up, previously broken foot that still isn't right caused me to have the old folks test too. They were concerned that when the treadmill got really reved up, and on an upward incline... that I might have a problem. What I don't like  the test report stating it was done due to deconditioning though. It simply isn't always true.

Now for the one here who said because of the attenuation artifact that the test was a waste of time. I do wish you would elaborate on the whys. Did that cause a difficult study (hard to determine) which showed a stress test with unconfirmed blockage? Did you go ahead and have a cath?

[anacyde]

With any test, there are risks, but this is a low risk test.  They perform this test on elderly people with heart disease and they do fine the vast majority of the time.  This will be much like a regular stress test, but the injection will make you feel a little warm and funny for a few minutes.  You may feel a rapid heart rate too.  But rest a little easier knowing that you'll be in a controlled environment with medical professionals on hand.

Sending good thoughts your way!

[cobbler5]

Thank you, both. I had the test this morning. Actually, I hadn't thought of myself as elderly (56!) but guess my cardiologist opted for the chemical test since I was coming out of some other problems.

[PikaPika88]

I've the Persantine Thallium Stress Test in September 2006.  End up with drinking a lot of strong coffee!  All abnormality due to attenuation artefact.  Wasting time.  The heart misbehave for few weeks after that!  Not kidding!

Good luck.