What Does A Positive Stress Test Indicate?

Posted on Sun, 9 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 9 Mar 2014 Answered on

Sat, 29 Mar 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : A week ago I had a regular stress test, the EKG of which, at higher intensity, revealed depressions indicating a blockage. Therefore a week later (yesterday) I had a nuclear stress test which again, at higher intensity, indicated depressions. The images that were taken afterwards, however, revealed no blockage or anything amiss at all. My doctor says that the images are far more significant and therefore not to worry. But two stress EKGs one week apart still revealed those depressions - what could account for the discrepancy and should I be concerned?

Answered by Dr. Anantharamakrishnan (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Second opinion and further investigation Detailed Answer: Dear friend, Welcome to Health Care Magic A positive stress test is an indication of block and the need for further investigation... Changes in earlier images and normalcy of subsequent images – means adequate collateral circulation or spasm… The tests evaluate the Physiology. We need to go for the anatomy. To go for Coronary angiography is the next step. It is also an investigation (but invasive) and is the gold standard. Lesser alternative will be to do CT angio (X-ray) And be medically treated like block, until it is decided either way… A second opinion is a good option Take care Wishing all well God bless

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar