Re: Risks and Stress Tests

Posted By Kimberly on November 25, 1998 at 19:01:14:

In Reply to: Re: Risks and Stress Tests posted by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on November 25, 1998 at 16:32:31:






Could you please inform me of the possible risks involved with an Adenosine Thallium Myoview Test?  I am scheduled for one next week because of my abnormal treadmill stress test.  One and a half minutes in to the treadmill test my heart rate shot up to 189 but my blood pressure fell to 60/50 (or 60/40,  it's been a few weeks).  I passed out and was told to have minimal activity until this next test.  This reaction has become typical for me during exercise.  Is there a possibility that I will undergo the same "stress" during the Myoview?  I am a little frightened of having to feel that way again, and am concerened about the six minutes that I may feel faint and dizzy again.  Thank you.
Dear Kimberly
Anyone undergoing a chemical stress test (what you are scheduled for) faces a tiny risk of the procedure inducing a heart attack. You are closely monitored during the procedure, watching for this possibility.
However, your treadmill stress test was extremely abnormal. Did you develop an arrhythmia that caused your heart rate to go so fast? Do you know what type of arrhythmia? Based on the limited information that you have provided, I do not understand why you are having another stress test. Depending on the specifics of your situation, I would probably have recommended an invasive procedure, not a repeat stress test.
I hope this information is useful. Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provided specific diagnoses and therapies.  Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck!
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.   The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.