off topic - exercise tolerance test / RA

[TheBoys]

morning

I’m going through a diagnosis period with a cardiologist who insists I have a stress test to get my heart rate up.

I’ve literally pleaded that I can’t do this particular test - the cardiologist just does not understand my limitations.

I ve sat here seeing if I can move my legs as if pedalling but my left knee won’t move without pain . I m due knee replacement in spring. It’s getting me down that I can’t do it moreover I don’t want to end up in more pain than can tolerate

Has anyone with knee or leg stiffness/pain ever attempted one of these tests?

I know people say a bike is good exercise for the joint but mine is too far gone now.

[medway-lady]

Try not worry as my husband had this done with chemicals where they increase heart rate. They told him of risk just in passing and he just had to lie down and they increased rate rate then bought it back down. So there's another way if your not mobile enough, he has asthma so couldn't get his breath to do test with treadmill or running machine.

[TheBoys in reply to medway-lady]

I wish they had arranged this. It’s been done via my insurance and it feels like they’re doing it even though I can’t physically do it. I expect I ll not be able to do the test and then they’ll suggest a drug induced stress test. Just wish they’d listen to me.

[medway-lady in reply to TheBoys]

I know what you mean, it’s such a waste of their and your time. I think it’s mostly the pattern they have to follow and it’s so blinkered. Probably it makes everything more expensive as well.

[Deeb1764]

when I explained my issues re exercise they went for a drug injected type to increase the heart rate. It was very controlled and quick if a tad overwhelming but I felt safe. Push for this type or ask why this can’t be done instead

[TheBoys in reply to Deeb1764]

Hi

Thanks for that advice. I’ve just emailed them as went for a walk today and overdone it so now the knee is swollen more than normal. So , impossible to use the leg tomorrow just rest. Hopefully something will come of it.

[Sunflowerdownsouth in reply to TheBoys]

Hi. Having you been using ice packs on your knee? This will help reduce inflammation and the damage that causes. I wrap bag of peas in tea towel and put that on specific joint for up to 15 mins and this can be done at regular intervals during the day. If you can reduce inflammation this will help with knee pre and post op. I’ve had both knees replaced twice so been there. Painful, hard work with physio but absolutely worth it 👍🏼

[TheBoys in reply to Sunflowerdownsouth]

Hi there

Many tnx for this - I ll look to do this

Paul

[Haz58]

I had the chemical test too. That's the way to go if you can't do the exercise. It was fine I just felt a bit sick when my heart peaked but the nurses were very good and reassuring.

[TheBoys in reply to Haz58]

Hi

Tnx for that - did the heartbeat go back to normal levels quickly?

[Haz58 in reply to TheBoys]

Yes they control it very well. Once I felt sick they were telling me that there wasn't long to go with the test. I did panic a bit feeling sick but it wasn't for very long at all. I wouldn't worry if I had to have it done again.

[Scottishlad]

I also had the chemical stress test. It's all done on couch.

You must follow the preparation advice regarding caffeine. No caffeine of any description for 24 hours before the test. No coffee or tea even decaf versions, no coke, no chocolate 😭. Caffeine interferes with the drug the give you to speed up the heart.

However as soon as the test is completed fill your boots with a chocolate bar and coke. The caffeine helps clear the drug from your body after it has done it's work. You then wait about 40 minutes and have scan to see where the tracer ends up in your heart.

The nurse said it she could tell I had followed the instructions about caffeine and it was surprising how many people lied, potentially missing out on a proper diagnosis.

[TheBoys]

thanks for this that’s reassuring.

Paul

[ProudYorky]

Hi Boys can't give any advice on your test never having had one but re your knee replacement you won't look back when you have this done it will change your life .I had a complete knee replacement in Dec 2003 aged 49 I was still working in the building trade and after 10 weeks went back to work with some limitations obviously but retired at 65 it will be 21 yrs old in Dec 25 and I'm still pain free and still as mobile as ever .Hope you find some way to get through your tests good luck .

[Durrell]

I feel your pain as I’m also waiting FKR & my knees are painful, but I picked up a 2nd hand stationary bike & use it most days. When I started my knees were really painful but over time they have eased, I built it up very slowly. I’ve been told the most important & helpful thing I can do for myself is to get my legs as strong as possible prior to surgery as this will be extremely beneficial after surgery. Already I feel my legs support my knee better now, don’t get me wrong they do hurt but not as they did when I wasn’t doing it at all. A friend who a physiotherapist said it would take time to feel benefit approximately 10 weeks, wishing you all the best 🌸