Would you have this test or get a second opinion???

Question

I have acid reflux disease (GERDS) and take medication for it sometimes I do have chest pain, high above my breast and pressure and soreness all the way thru to my back, my old Dr called it esophagel spasms, I also have severe anemia which can cause chest pain, shortness of breath and weakness, I'm not absorbing the iron because of my stomach. Now my question I have a new Dr and he wants me to have a Nuclear stress test for heart disease I'm terified of the radioactive dye and I'm sure I will fail the activity part due to the anemia, should I refuse the test? get a second opinion and get the anemia corrected first and then have the stress test. Serious opinions please or if you have had the stress test yourself.
Thanks

Answer 1

Hi, I understand your fear of the nuclear stress test. Having just had the same symptoms you describe above over Christmas, I had a nuclear stress test on the advice of cardiologist, but I was terrified to have it. They thought i was possibly having esophageal spasm (because nitroglycerin can relieve those and chest pain), but not sure because there were strong heart symptoms too. the test is very accurate. The dye is not bad and I had no side effects (I am especially sensitive to medications and dyes) and the test really showed that nothing was going on with my heart, thankfully, so I (and my doctors) could be sure of this. You just do your best on the exercise part and if you can't go any more, they don't force you. Try the test--it will give you a better understanding of what's going on. See if the doctor will give you a little something for anxiety before the test as well. But I say go for it.

Answer 2

Yes I've had several stress tests. You need to get on with it and have the test. Your doctor cannot tell you anything unless he has the proper testing done. What can he do for you without eliminating the possibilty of heart disease? The dye will not harm you, honey. It goes right out of your body when you start drinking water. Don't worry about the anemia. I would like to add, though, that your doc should also have an ultrasound done of your gallbladder because it sounds to me like you might have gall stones, especially since you described back pain and indigestion. More likely your gallbladder is doing all of this. Go on and get your test. It's better to know it's not your heart. Godloveya.

Answer 3

I've never had that kind of test.
But I understand how you feel about the radioactive dye.
If you are uncomfortable, you should try another doctor.
A second opinion is always good for you, because you'll get more inputs, and maybe more choices on how to medicate your illness.

Good luck...

Answer 4

The nuclear stress test will not be affected by your anemia.
Have it done so they can rule out cardiac problems vs. stomach.
But have you had an endoscopy done? Where they put the scope down your throat to check your stomach? If not, you might ask if that can be done prior to the stress test. Then if they still suspect cardiac, have the stress test done.

But, there may be more to test results that you aren't understanding for them to want to do a stress test first.
The person you should be talking to about this is your doctor.

Answer 5

i would get a second opinion to be on the safe side but still have the test to make sure nothing that you dont have it if i were in your shoes i would do what i have just said but its your body and your decision remember that and whatever you choose good luck in the future

Answer 6

You are suffering from epigastrial regurgitation which gives false symptom of cardiac distress. Only Iron is not the cure of anemia you must take folic acid for at least a month. Doctor should have advised for TMT first.