Lexiscan Stress Test

A Lexiscan stress test is a method of examining the blood flow through your body via x-ray. A chemical agent is used to increase the blood flow through the heart and arteries. Once the blood flow has increased x-rays are used to examine it, checking for any coronary artery disease.

This is a relatively new technique for finding coronary artery disease, but it has proven very successful both in testing and since it's approval by use by the FDA.

Before you undergo a Lexican stress test it is important that you have a frank and open discussion with your doctor. They need to know if you have any history of heart disease or high blood pressure, or if you have ever suffered from asthma. You especially need to let them know if you are allergic to regadenoson. You should also let the doctor know if you are pregnant or if you are breast feeding.

As a side note, because of the pressure that this puts on your heart it is important that you don't consume any caffeine rich products before the procedure (about 12 hours or so). So no coffee, energy drinks etc.

For the Lexiscan stress test the Lexiscan is administered via an IV injection. This must be done by a medical professional so will usually take place in either your local clinic or hospital. Other arrangements can be made on a case by case basis.

Once you have been injected with the Lexiscan more injections will follow. Whilst the Lexiscan speeds up the blood flow further drugs mean that your blood will show up on the X-Rays better – which are important as to make the stress test worth doing.

As this is a stress test numerous factors as well as your blood flow will be closely monitored. This is to ensure that the medical professionals have all the data they need to help make a diagnosis or to help rule one out.

Factors monitored include your oxygen intake, your blood pressure, your pulse, your breathing and much more besides. The more that the Doctors find out the better chance they have of understanding your condition.

It is considered a 'stress test' because the idea is t stress your system, including your heart. Which is why Lexiscan stress test speeds up the heart – it induces stress like symptoms which allow doctors ot have a better idea, more quickly, about what is going on in your body.

Unfortunately, as with all medical procedures, there are some side effects to the Lexiscan stress test. These Lexiscan side effects include (but are not limited to)

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• A feeling of dread

• Skin tingling

• Feeling like you might pass out

• A heavy chest

• High blood pressure

• Slow heart beat

• Weak pulse

If you do get any of these following a Lexiscan stress test it is VITAL that you consult a medical professional immediately.

Please note that this list of Lexiscan side effects s far from complete. It is important that you talk to your doctor to get a full list of possible side effects that you could get from undergoing a Lexiscan stress test, and which you need to consult him or her if you do get.