Nuclear Stress Test
United Heart Institute aims to be the go-to source for all heart health services for patients across the Inland Empire. Our vast experience in diagnosing and managing cardiovascular conditions is built on careful monitoring and testing. Visit us for our nuclear stress test services, which offer safe, highly detailed data of your heart’s blood flow and function under both rest and stress conditions. This key information can help guide the best treatment options for your situation.
What Is a Nuclear Stress Test?
A nuclear stress test provides specialized imaging of your cardiovascular system. It involves using a small (and safe) amount of a radioactive tracer injected into the blood. We then use it to trace blood flow throughout your body during physical exertion versus rest. This single test can provide key information about your heart function, blood flow, coronary artery disease, and more.
Before the test, we conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure it is appropriate for your needs. This may include:
- Medical history review
- Physical examination
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Other cardiac tests as needed
What Does a Nuclear Stress Test Help Diagnose?
A nuclear stress test can provide clear data points that aid in the diagnosis and evaluation of a range of heart conditions. Some of the main conditions and concerns we use a nuclear stress test for include:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
- Areas of reduced blood flow to the heart
- Damage from a previous heart attack
- Effectiveness of prior treatments such as angioplasty or bypass surgery
- Heart failure and other cardiac conditions
Who Should Consider a Nuclear Stress Test?
Patients may be recommended a nuclear stress test if they:
- Show symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath)
- Have abnormal findings on other cardiac tests
- Demonstrate an increased risk for heart disease and need evaluation
- Require monitoring of known heart disease or post-procedure recovery
- Need medical clearance for certain types of surgery
What Are the Benefits and Risks?
Nuclear stress testing offers numerous benefits with little to no risk involved. Key advantages of a nuclear stress test include:
- High accuracy for detecting coronary artery disease
- Provides detailed information about blood flow and heart function
- Helps guide treatment decisions and monitor therapy effectiveness
- Noninvasive and well-tolerated by most patients
Patients may be concerned about the radioactive tracer, but it is actually very safe. The amount used is small and well within safe limits, and it naturally exits the body within a short time. Mild side effects such as temporary flushing, nausea, or dizziness may occur during the stress portion of the test, but that is generally only tied to the physical exertion itself and quickly resolves.
Learn About Your Testing Options
Call the United Heart Institute today to set up your evaluation and learn more about nuclear stress testing. Our dedicated heart care team proudly serves patients across the Inland Empire, offering advanced diagnostic services designed to optimize diagnosis and treatment plans.
Connect With Us Today
*If you are experiencing a medical emergency,
United Heart Institute
Phone: 909.500.8683
Fax: (909) 931-1294
685 North 13th Avenue, Upland
California 91786, United States
