Myocardial Perfusion test

[Daisyblu]

Aside from having stress echocardiagram and being on a heart monitor whilst in hospital and due to have a second ablation (first 2020) I have now been referred for a myocardial perfusion test which I believe involves being injected with a radio active substance to enable the medics to view my arteries. Has anyone else had one of these?

I know I have to avoid spending time with young children whilst radioactive but someone has mentioned not been able to be near/stroke pets. I have a young dog who likes to sit next to/on me.

[sassy59]

My husband had a perfusion test around five years ago and it all went well. He did struggle with his breathing when first injected as he has COPD but he got through the test ok. Not sure about being around pets so do ask. Hope all goes well for you. X

[Daisyblu in reply to sassy59]

Thanks Sassy 59 . It is good to hear of positive experiences. My test is being rescheduled as my ablation date now falls on the same day. I have read of some quite negative expriences of the test on her so am questioning if I really need it.

[BobD Volunteer]

Drink plenty of water and it soon flushes out of your system. Follow the instructions from the team.

Years ago I had (similar principle) bone scan to check that my prostate cancer had not spread and was sent out from the hosptial for two hours whilst it soaked in. We went shopping which was hilarious as i set off every shop anti theft alarm that we walked past! They usually give you a letter with all the dos and don'ts .

Long time ago now but I think I was told that if I flew within 48hours I would set off all sorts of alarms and had to carry a letter explaining why.

[Daisyblu in reply to BobD]

Hi Bob. I have read a few posts on this site which essentially said 'never again' as their experiences of the test were very negative - chest pain, struggling for breath etc. I question whether I really need it and wonder if I should wait and see how I am post ablation. I am actually feeling well at the moment - my heart rate is good, no arrthymia ( that I am aware of) and only get breathless when walking up an incline or fast rate). I too have set off airport alarms due to the metal in my chest that held my ribs together when I had my valve replacement!

[Frances123]

I had one prior to breast cancer surgery and was told I would be radioactive for 24 hours and my tears and urine would be blue. Wasn’t told anything about pets but then I was going straight from one hospital to another for surgery the same day. Maybe give the clinic at the hospital a ring who is going to administer it a call and ask them. x