Stress Testing will be performed upon written order by an MD/DO, PA or APRN. All patients must be age 16 or older as there is no pediatric cardiologist on site. Have your doctor’s office fax an order to Central Scheduling at (860) 444-3773. Your doctor can set up an appointment for you, or you can call Central Scheduling yourself at (860) 444-3777.
Cardiac Stress Testing
Cardiac Stress Testing evaluates the cardiovascular system during a period of exercise and increased demand. This test measures exercise capacity and identifies abnormal responses to exercise.
Most patients will walk on a treadmill. For those patients who are unable to walk on a treadmill, there is also the option of using an exercise bike.
Once the test has been read by a cardiologist a copy will be sent to your doctor(s).
Patient Preparation: Wear comfortable clothing and sneakers or walking shoes as you will be walking on the treadmill. Eat a light meal before test, and avoid caffeine. The test takes about 30-45 minutes.
Nuclear Stress Testing
This test identifies regions of the heart muscle that may not be receiving adequate blood supply. Blood flow to the heart muscle is pictured using a radioactive substance (radio-isotope) known as a tracer (*this is not a dye*). There are two types of Nuclear Tests (Exercise and Chemical)
For either type, an IV will be started so that the tracer can be administered. Next, resting images will be taken of your heart. If you are having a Nuclear Exercise Stress Test, you will then walk on the treadmill just like you would with a regular stress test. If you are having a Chemical Stress Test you will be given a medication called Adenosine which dilates the arteries in the heart, mimicking exercise. A second set of images will then be taken of your heart, which will be compared to the resting images to see if there are any changes.
This is a much more involved test then a regular stress test, so allow 3 ½- 4 hours for the whole test.