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This diagnostic procedure measure the distribution of blood flow to your heart in two stages: during some type of stress (such as exercise) and while you are resting.

Test Preparation

Preparation for the test will depend on several factors, including age, fitness level and pre-existing medical problems. You may be asked to:

Not eat anything three to four hours before the test is performed because images of your heart will be easier to interpret if your stomach is empty. Also, some people may get an upset stomach if they exercise too soon after eating.
Discontinue taking previous medications, particularly heart medicine, because they may interfere with the accuracy of the test results. You must check with your doctor to find out whether you should stop taking your medications.
Wear shorts or slacks for the exercise portion of the test, although the technologist will provide you with a hospital gown for the imaging session. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or running shoes, because you may have to do your exercising on a treadmill or stationary bicycle.

Exam Procedure

For the exercise test, small pads called electrodes are placed on your chest so that an electrocardiogram (EKG) can monitor your heart rhythm while you exercise. An intravenous tube is placed in your arm for tracer administration, which occurs about one minute before the end of the exercise session. The exercise may consist of walking on a treadmill or riding the stationary bicycle. As the exercise continues, it becomes more difficult (similar to walking up a hill). As the exercise progresses, the heart rate and blood pressure rise. You will be asked to exercise as long as you can.

If a previous medical problem prevents you from exercising, your doctor may request that using a special medication instead of exercise induce the stress symptoms.

About 30 minutes after the tracer injection, pictures of your heart will be taken.

For the resting portion, you may or may not receive a second injection of tracer, depending on the type of tracer used. As with the imaging portion for the exercise images, pictures will be taken of your heart. This imaging session may take 15 to 30 minutes to complete.