Are there any risks associated with a nuclear stress test?

In general, the test is safe and complications are uncommon. However, like any medical procedure the test does carry a risk of complications, which may include:

-       Allergy to the dye that is injected into the hand.

-       Low blood pressure or dizziness may occur during exercise. This complication will reverse when exercise is discontinued.

-       Abnormal heart rhythms may occur during exercise. In some cases, the arrhythmias may be serious and the test may need to be discontinued

-       Rarely a heart attack may occur during the test.

-       Some patients may develop chest pain of a flushing sensation. In such cases a medication will be given to you to reverse the symptoms.