WHAT IS ADENOSINE STRESS TEST

[RITZGAL]

Does anyone know what an adenosine stress test is like?  I have to have one in the morning.

[kenkeith]

The testing area is supervised by a physician and a nuclear medicine technologist will place an IV into a vein in your arm or hand and inject a small amount of radioactive tracer. The tracer is not a dye or contrast. After the tracer is injected, you will wait about 20 minutes before the first set of “resting” images are taken.

Then you will be asked to lie very still under the gamma camera with both arms above your head for about 15 to 20 minutes. The camera will record images that show blood flow through your heart at rest.

Next, you will go to the Stress Lab where a technician will place electrodes on your chest to monitor your EKG.

If you are able, you will slowly walk on a treadmill during the adenosine infusion. Otherwise, you will lie on the exam table for the duration of the test.
Your heart rate, EKG and blood pressure will be monitored throughout the test.
After waiting about 45 minutes, you will be asked to again lie very still under the camera with both arms over your head for about 15-20 minutes. The camera will record images that show blood flow through your heart during cardiac stress/activity. These images will be compared to the first set.

[RITZGAL]

Thank you so much.  I just found out today that I needed this.  I didn't think to ask at the time.

[blksapphire]

Is this the same as a nuclear stress test.

[RITZGAL]

My rx says adenosine nuclear stress test.  Adenosine is used in lieu of exercise.