Other Types of Stress Testing

Your doctor may pick other types of stress tests. Your doctor will decide which test is best for you. These other stress tests may use a treadmill or bicycle. In addition to the electrocardiogram these stress tests include some type of pictures or images. The type of pictures the doctor wants to see determines which test they will pick.

Images of heart's blood supply:
Perfusion imaging
1. Thallium-201 stress test
2. Technetium-99m sestamibi stress test

Images of how the heart works
Functional imaging
1. First pass exercise test
2. Echocardiographic stress test

Images of both types
1. Technetium-99m sestamibi stress test.

If a patient cannot walk adequately on a treadmill or has a medical reason not to do so, the doctor may request a stress test without exercise. Certain drugs, such as persantine (dipyridamole) and dobutamine can stimulate the heart adequately to obtain satisfactory pictures when used in place of exercise.

Common Questions Asked About Stress Testing

Is it safe?
There is little risk and medical professionals are present to respond to any unusual happening.

Will I need other tests?
The results of the exercise test may suggest to your doctor that you need further studies. The results may also eliminate the need for further studies.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes.

How long will it take?
Routine stress testing takes about an hour.

If images are required, the test can take about 90 minutes. Usually, you must return for more pictures 3-4 hours later, so the entire test with images can take 5 hours.