Cardiac Perfusion Scan: Risks
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Risks
Cardiac perfusion scans are usually safe. There is always a slight chance of damage to cells or tissue from radiation, including the low levels of radiation used for this test. However, the chance of damage from the radiation is usually very low compared with the benefits of the test.
The risk of exercise depends on the condition of your heart and your general level of health. The risks include:
- Fainting.
- Chest pain.
- An irregular heartbeat.
- Heart attack. There is a slight risk that death may result if a heart attack occurs during the test.
After the test
Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if you develop:
- Chest pain.
- Trouble breathing.
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| Last updated: | January 18, 2006 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC |
| Reviewed By: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine, George Philippides, MD - Cardiology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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