Your doctor may order a nuclear stress test to:
During the test, you’ll receive an injection of a radioactive tracer (commonly technetium-based). A gamma camera then takes images of your heart at rest and again after your heart is stressed — either by walking on a treadmill or through medication (pharmacologic stress). The two sets of images are compared to evaluate blood flow and heart function.
Yes. The tracer used is considered very safe and involves a low dose of radiation, similar to other diagnostic imaging tests. It quickly leaves your body through urine or stool. Allergic reactions are extremely rare.
If you’re able to exercise, you’ll walk on a treadmill to increase your heart rate. If you can’t exercise enough, a medication (like Lexiscan or adenosine) is used to simulate the effects of exercise by increasing blood flow to your heart. Both methods are equally effective for imaging purposes.
To get accurate results, follow these prep tips:
A nuclear stress test typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on the protocol. Some centers may split the test into two appointments (rest and stress scans on different days).
If you walk on the treadmill, you’ll feel like you’re exercising normally. If you receive a stress medication, you may briefly feel flushed, short of breath, or have a racing heartbeat — these effects are temporary and monitored closely by our team.
The nuclear stress test can reveal:
Yes. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover nuclear stress testing when ordered for an appropriate medical reason. Our staff will help coordinate authorization and benefits before your appointment.