Dobutamine stress test

[Spj57]

I've just received a letter with an appointment for a dobutamine stress test. No explanation why and I still haven't had results from my 24hr monitor and CT angiograms done two months ago. My consultant appointment was cancelled and I'm still waiting for a new one. My echocardiagram was normal. I'm a bit confused as to what is going on and what the stress test entails? 😕 I have paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

[jeanjeannie50]

I'd never heard of a Dobutamine stress test, but reading the information below indicated it could be because you are unable to exercise normally:

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/...

Jean

[10gingercats]

You are proibably going to have to chase your results rather than waiting for them. Contact the relevant depts who did the tests .Also contact the secretary of your consultant and find out why the appoint. was cancelled and when you can expect a new one. Also when you get the appoint put yourself onto a cancellation list so that when someone drops out you can go instead of them at short notice.This has worked for me about half the time.People do cancel for a variety of reasons. I am afraid these days you have to be proactive and do what you can to help yourself.

[secondtry]

Unfortunately these days you have to push most medics very hard with utmost diplomacy. Always insist on a clear explanation and don't be corralled into any test or drug you are not happy with.

I would also consult an Alternative Practitioner/Integrative doctor to look at my general health & lifestyle choices - I believe very positive for reducing AF and other current or future chronic issues at the same time.

[chesson]

Hi, In general the Dobutamine stress test is done to check the electrical function of the heart without the need to do a physical treadmill or exercise bike test. I have had quite a few exercise bike test that were always inconclusive regarding the ST segment. They suspected a functional defect but were never quite sure. Then one day whilst having a routine cardiac check up (Switzerland where I now live) the doc decided to do the dobutamine test to determine whether this was "an electrical issue with the heart or whether there was some mechanical (pumping) problem" in his words. I had heard of the test but was not expecting such an unpleasant experience. The heart really sped-up after the dobutamine got into my system via a drip. I felt hot, sweaty and nauseous and wondered if I was going to pass out. Thankfully the cardiologist decided he had seen all he needed and then injected a sort of antidote to slow the heart back down. His diagnosis was that there was no mechanical defect, just an electrical anomaly under stress testing, so I guess it was worth it. Just be prepared for the experience and you should be fine.

[KMRobbo in reply to chesson]

Knowledge is power!