Stress Test for Vienna, VA | Mclean Cardiology PC | Concierge Medicine & Cardiologist

Stress Testing: Tests to check the heart’s ability to respond to external stress in a controlled, clinical environment.

Electrocardiogram Stress Test: A measurement of the electrical activity of the heart. Electrodes are placed on specific body locations (arms, legs, chest) and the patient walks/runs on a treadmill. As the patient moves, the oxygen demand of the heart increases as their heart rate and blood pressure elevates. The electrical activity of the heart is recorded. Changes found between the resting EKG and the electrocardiogram stress test may indicate the presence of heart-related conditions.
Exercise Echocardiography: A procedure in which ultrasound is used to asses the heart’s response to stress or exercise.

Nuclear Stress Test:

Exercise Nuclear Test/Thallium Stress Test: A small amount of tracer is injected into a vein. A special camera detects the radiation released by the tracer to produce computer images of the heart. For a Thallium Stress Test, Thallium (a radioactive isotope) is injected during peak exercise. The injection is absorbed through the heart and creates images of the heart that can be viewed by a computer. This test gives information about circulation from the coronary arteries in the heart muscle. This test takes approximately 3 hours.
Lexiscan Nuclear Test: Lexiscan, a prescription medication is used to increase blood flow in the coronary arteries. This test is done for patients that cannot exercise or for those with a pacemaker. This replaces the exercise portion of the stress test. This is done at Fairfax Hospital.

Typical patient instructions for Nuclear Tests are as follows:

FASTING: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight except all of the water you desire
STOP: All products containing caffein, which includes coffee, tea, sodas, (caffeine free and decaffeinated drinks as well),
Bring a list of all medications, prescription as well as over-the-counter
Bring photo ID, insurance card(s) and doctor’s order for the test
For exercise study, please be sure to bring or wear comfortable clothing and shoes
Allow 3-4 hours to complete this exam
You will not feel ill after this study and will not need anyone to drive you
If you do not speak English, please bring an interpreter with you
STOP: all nicotine products for 12 hours prior to test
Diabetic Patient Instructions: Patients do not take diabetic medication (i.e. insulin nor pills) the morning of the test but bring diabetic meds with you along with a light snack.
All other medications should be taken as directed by Dr. Haddad

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