Folks,

I had a regular stress test in November, and a cardiolite stress test done in March. Both were negative and showed good results. How long are these tests good for? In other words, assuming someone is taking good care of themselves, what is the "window" in general that one can rest easy about their arteries?

acp

Normally the Cardiolite tests are only repeated if there is a change in your symptoms. Normal stress tests may be repeated as part of your normal annual physicals, dpending on your doctor. At least this is what my Cardiologist told me. I had one in Feb 05 and when I started seeing a new Cardiologist in Mar 06 she repeated the test as I was a new patient. She did not repeat the tests this year when I met with her last week for my annual. I asked the same question and that was her response.

Good Luck.

Tony

I would generally agree with Toneman. It definitely be appropriate yearly or less for heart problems that relate to valves, enlarged heart, structural irregularities, etc.

If your test was for determination of any vessel occlusion, it can be longer than a year if you don't have any borderline occlusion and no symptoms.

had a regular stress test in November, and a cardiolite stress test done in March. Both were negative and showed good results. How long are these tests good for?

acp,
Without heart disease and without a significant change in symptoms, I would guesstimate that 3 years for the stress test is aok and probably 5 years until your next cardiolite (nuclear) if ever. Nuclear stress testing is not considered a routine screening test and a person who has a SECOND one done asymptomatically would probably be rejected by his insurance company.