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What Are Adenosine Stress Tests?

Jessica Ellis
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 6,469
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Adenosine stress tests, also known as adenosine nuclear stress tests, are a diagnostic tool used to observe the heart under stress. These tests are usually ordered when a doctor feels that a patient may have a heart irregularity that affects blood flow. Doctors may order adenosine stress tests if the patient is unable to undergo an exercise stress test for any reason. It is important to follow all precautions when preparing for adenosine stress tests in order to avoid distorting test results.

A doctor may order a stress test for many different reasons. In some cases, stress tests may simply be given as part of a full physical check-up. Doctors may also request the test if a patient has a personal or family history of heart problems, has symptoms that may indicate heart trouble, or if an irregularity is detected during a basic medical examination.

When a stress test is required, doctors may choose to have patients undergo an exercise-based test. This type of test requires the patient to walk or run on a treadmill while attached to heart monitoring devices, in order to see how the heart responds to exertion. If a patient cannot walk on a treadmill due to illness, injury, or other conditions, adenosine stress tests may be ordered instead. Unlike exercise tests, adenosine tests simulate the effects of exertion on the heart using a drug called adenosine.

During the test, the patient will usually be asked to lie on a table while a special camera, called a gamma camera, takes initial pictures of the heart. After these images are recorded, the patient is given intravenous injections of adenosine and a slightly radioactive isotope. The adenosine quickly begins to simulate cardiovascular stress, while the isotope makes it possible for the gamma camera to record images of blood flow in and around the heart. Some patients may feel slightly uncomfortable during the test; common side effects from the adenosine may include chest pain and labored breathing. A doctor or technician will usually stay in the room throughout the test, and should be consulted if side effects become severe.

Proper preparations for adenosine stress tests are important, as certain activities can affect the accuracy of the test. Most of the time, patients are not allowed to eat or drink six hours prior to the test; it may help to schedule the test first thing in the morning to avoid going a long time without food. Caffeine must be avoided for a full 24 hours before the test, as this can skew results. A patient must also consult the doctor about all current medications and follow instructions about skipping any doses.

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Jessica Ellis
By Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis brings a unique perspective to her work as a writer for WiseGeek. While passionate about drama and film, Jessica enjoys learning and writing about a wide range of topics, creating content that is both informative and engaging for readers.

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Discussion Comments
By mobilian33 — On Apr 08, 2014

Because of an existing condition with my heart, I have the adenosine stress tests rather than running on the treadmill. Yes, there are risks with the medications delivered in order to take the adenosine stress tests. The first time I took the tests my blood pressure dropped and I felt dizzy. I thought I was going to faint, but once my heart returned to its regular beating pace I felt fine.

These test are not perfect, but they are a good alternative for people with conditions like I have. Besides, even healthy people taking the treadmill stress tests are at some risk. According to a study supported by a heart and lung institute, one in 5000 people who take stress tests are at risk of having a heart attack and maybe dying.

By Animandel — On Apr 07, 2014

While adenosine stress tests are beneficial for patients who cannot participate in a standard stress test because of health concerns, adenosine tests can be uncomfortable for some patients. Some people feel nervous and anxious after receiving the drugs associated with the adenosine stress tests. These feeling sometimes last for hours after the completion of the tests.

Some patients get sick and have to vomit either during or after the tests. Other patients appear to be allergic to the medications and have difficulty breathing and may experience wheezing. These symptoms can be very scary for patients. Many of the patients are already a little nervous about taking stress tests, and these conditions add to their concerns.

Jessica Ellis
Jessica Ellis
With a B.A. in theater from UCLA and a graduate degree in screenwriting from the American Film Institute, Jessica Ellis...
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