PATIENT INFORMATION

Preparing for a Cardiac Stress Test

Cardiac Stress Testing is a safe, non-invasive way to evaluate heart function and blood flow under stress. This can be achieved through exercise using a treadmill or medications (pharmacological, non-exercise) for those who are unable to reliably exercise. This allows your provider to diagnose potential blockages and heart attack risk.

DOWNLOAD THE CARDIAC STRESS TEST PREPARATION (PDF)

Before The Test

Avoid caffeine 12 hours before the test.
- Ex. coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, soda, medications with caffeine (Excedrin, Midol, etc.)
Cardiac PET/CT, SPECT (non-exercise)
- Non-exercise (pharmacological stress test) - continue normally prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise by your provider.
SPECT (exercise)
- Exercise stress test ONLY - hold your beta or calcium channel blocker 24 hours prior to your test unless otherwise instructed by your provider.
- Beta-blockers: metoprolol, carvedilol, propranolol, atenolol, bisoprolol.
- Calcium channel blockers: diltiazem, verapamil

Day of the Test

Do not eat or drink 4 hours prior to the test. Water is OK.
No caffeine day of the test. No smoking or tobacco products minimum 1 hour prior.
- Includes coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, soda, medications with caffeine (Excedrin, Midol, etc.)
Wear comfortable clothes; remove metal (necklaces, bras with underwire) in the chest area.

After the Test

You may drive yourself home and return to work.

Questions?

Please Contact Us:
CardioNow
19020 33rd Ave W Suite 250
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Phone: (425) 458-0707