Stress Test Specialist

A stress test is a diagnostic procedure to evaluate how your heart is working during physical activity. By engaging in exercise during the test, Dr. Taghizadeh can identify potential heart problems as your heart pumps blood faster.

You may need a stress test if you have unexplained symptoms that can relate to a heart condition like valve damage, coronary artery disease or an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). You may also need a stress test if you’re receiving treatment for an existing heart condition to monitor its effectiveness.

During an exercise stress test, you can expect to walk on a treadmill while electrodes that attach to your skin record your heart’s electrical activity. Dr. Taghizadeh also monitors your blood pressure during the activity.

He may order a chemical persantine nuclear stress test, which involves an injection of a radioactive dye into your bloodstream. Dr. Taghizadeh uses imaging technology to follow the flow of the dye through your blood vessels to your heart to identify blockages or other blood circulation issues.

Through your test, Dr. Taghizadeh carefully monitors you for signs of dizziness, shortness of breath, or blood pressure changes that can occur with strenuous exercise for your health and safety.

In the days before your stress test, Dr. Taghizadeh may ask you to make changes to certain medications you take. You should also avoid eating, drinking, and smoking before your test.

Dr. Taghizadeh reviews your medical history and your symptoms prior to your procedure to determine what type of stress test you need. A nuclear stress test often follows an exercise stress test to confirm the cause of your symptoms.

After your tests are complete, you can expect to return to your usual activities right away. Dr. Taghizadeh reviews the results of your tests to determine if you need additional diagnostic testing or require treatment for a heart condition.

If you’re experiencing an irregular heartbeat, fatigue, or other symptoms of a heart condition, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at San Diego Varicose Vein Treatment Center online or by phone today to find out if you’re a candidate for a stress test.