NM Cardiac Stress Test

Overview-
A cardiac stress test is an exam that helps your physician determine if you have coronary artery disease, which is a narrowing of the blood vessels that supply oxygen to heart muscle. Images of your heart are taken at rest and after exercise or drug induced exercise. The images of before and after stress are compared and can show changes of coronary artery disease if it is present.

Preparation-
Do not eat or drink anything for four hours before this test. Your physician may ask you to decrease or stop certain medications for this test. Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

Length of exam-
Resting portion- 20 to 30 minutes
Stress portion- 1 hour

How is the exam performed?