Sorry to hwar you’re having issues. Hope the test provides answers.

I’ve had that test at least once, maybe twice. The worst part is the sitting around waiting. Take your phone charger and/or a good book. Good luck!

Wishing the best for you!

Hoping for the best outcome for you, Donna.

Best wishes.

Bless you.

I'm glad you are being proactive. Wishing you all the best.

This sounds ominous, but, knowing what's going on is best. Wishing you well Donna.

(((Donna)))

The wagons are circling around you. Sending strength to you and wishing for the best outcome..

You will stay in my thoughts.

I’m glad you are getting everything checked out. Will this test check for blockages? I hope you’ll be able to get the test soon.

So sorry you're going through this, but let's hope the tests provide the answer you need.

Hi Donna. I hope you’re feeling well and that you are not anxious about your upcoming Nuclear Stress Test. The test is going to be easy; you just have to show up. I believe you cannot have any coffee or caffein within 24 hours of that test.

The test takes a while because they have to wait here and there, then the imaging may take a while. (As you outlined in your post.)

It’s good that you are following up on your heavy arm sympton. That could be caused by any number of things (like nerve compression or circulation or cardiac — the latter being the first one to evaluate).

It sounds like you have a good medical team (and good insurance). Aside from a small needle stick for the IV, you can pretty much doze and relax.

I wish you the best and comfort.

Here is a link you might find helpful.

🔹 https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/myocardial-perfusion-scan-stress

PS It’s a pretty amazing test that uses great technology. It’s very easy for the patient as well.

Oh and don’t carry anything illicit with you as you’ll be radioactive for a bit and might trigger a detecter! 😉

very glad that its being tended to quickly. please let us know how it goes. Depending on the crew, it can be sort of fun. Just go with the day, and pamper yourself afterwards.

I've never heard of this procedure, but I'm glad you're being proactive, and you will be relieved when it's over. Anything like this produces anxiety, but I'm wishing you the best outcome.

Wishing you the best possible results!

Donna, kudos to you for paying attention to your body & taking the scary step of seeking medical advice. About a year ago I had the test you’re having. It was for symptoms different from yours - there are many reasons this test is done. I can certainly empathize with the feelings you must be having. I didn’t have any previous experience with ”heart issues” and my overall health was good. All the more reason to have a sense of trepidation about this test. But, this test can uncover and also rule out so many conditions so a good thing to think about is that you’ll have answers soon. You’re correct that it isn’t fun but I want to assure you that it isn’t invasive and the worst part is the intial IV stick - done this way so we don’t get multiple sticks. The techs & health care staff that shepherded me through my test were extremely kind, caring, and sympathetic to my nervousness all through the process. @petalique is right about bringing a book.

@lily316 - Commonly called a nuclear stress test; you’ve likely heard of that.

Thank heavens someone encouraged you to seek medical advice. My dear friend kept complaining of heaviness in her arms. Her sister practically dragged her to the doctor where they immediately called an ambulance to send her to the hospital. She was having a heart attack. Shes fine now, thanks to a stent.

That test sounds like no fun. Ive done the treadmill hooked up to monitors. Boy, was I winded. Good luck to you.

Donna - I’m really 99.9% sure that they will not let you feel uncomfortable - “winded” - during this test. Please don’t stress over that aspect. The techs will be monitoring your heart rate as there’s a target rate based on your age that they want it to reach. If you’re uncomfortable before that point is reached they will stop. Reaching your target rate won’t require running - it’s a fast walk & the elevation is gradually increased. If the treadmill test needs to stop for any reason, you already know that they can give you something to increase your heart rate & they would do it through the IV port you already will have. It isn’t a great feeling but it’s over very quickly. Close your eyes & take deep breaths & try to think of something pleasant like - ice cream! 😊

A cardiac perfusion study is a nuclear stress test — just a different name for the same procedure.

Donna, I have had this test done 10 times. The only time I had a ”problem” was the time I had it done when my right cardiac artery was 99% blocked, as that was painful. (And I ended up getting a stent.) Otherwise there is, at most, mild discomfort.

Just be sure not to consume any caffeine for at least 24 hours prior to the test, as caffeine counteracts the radioactive stuff. Then when the test is done, consume caffeine (coffee, chocolate, etc.) to get it out of your system. And wear comfortable clothes.

Sorry you have the problem. Glad you can get it sorted! It sounds like you're getting expert care -- no rushing.

We'll be waiting to hear about the diagnosis...and any 'repairs' you may require.

I'm so glad you listened to both your friends at work and to your own body. I hope the procedure goes smoothly for you and do let us know how you're doing.

Donna, sendng my caring wishes for an excellent outcome of this test. you are a smart cookie to pay such good attention to that episode. chin up, girl. westsider40 westy

I am so sorry you have to go through this. I‘ll be hoping for the best

Sending you calming thoughts, Donna. I have no experience with what is happening to you but sounds like a number of people here are familiar. I understand your concern, though. I had cataract surgery earlier this year and had nothing to compare it to other than people telling me how easy it was. Well it was terrifying to me until the first one was done and it really was no big deal. The second eye was a breeze. All that to say, it's great that you have people here who have been through what you will be doing. I hope it does ease your concern and that your medical care is top notch.

I’ve had the nuclear stress test. piece of cake! Bring a good book and plan on eating in the hospital cafeteria, or bring your own lunch. It is nothing to stress about, you will do fine!