A nuclear stress test is a test that looks at the blood flow of your heart muscle.

A nuclear stress test also known as a myocardial perfusion imaging test looks at the blood flow to your heart muscle. It involves taking two sets of images of your heart — one set during an exercise stress test while you’re exercising on a treadmill or with medication that stresses your heart, and another set while you’re at rest. The blood flow to your heart muscle is measured both times to gather information about how well your heart works during physical activity and at rest.

Reasons a Nuclear Stress Test is recommended:

Diagnose coronary artery disease: Your coronary arteries are the major blood vessels that supply your heart with oxygen. Coronary artery disease develops when these arteries become damaged usually due to a buildup of deposits called plaques.
Look at the size and shape of your heart: The images from a nuclear stress test can help determine if your heart is enlarged and it can measure the pumping function (ejection fraction) of your heart.
Guide treatment of heart disorders: A nuclear stress test can help your doctor determine if treatment is working and it may also be used to help establish the right treatment plan for you.
Remember to wear comfortable clothes and shoes!

If you have any questions, you can consult with Dr. Jimenez or Dr. Alvarez for an appointment.