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Preparation
This test assesses your risk for a sudden life threatening arrhythmia and determines if an implantable
cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an ideal preventive therapy for you. This test is performed with a stress
EKG, so please review the information in the stress EKG section. Patients often considered
for this exam include those that have survived a heart attack, have a weakened heart muscle, or have
been fainting for unclear reasons.
Preparation for this test is minimal.
- Medication: Refrain from taking your blood pressure and other heart medications (except warfarin (coumadin) therapy) the night before and the day of your study. You can take your cholesterol medication as scheduled. If you're not sure which medications you should not take, please ask Dr. Moore.
- Clothing: Wear loose comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. You'll walk on a treadmill, so dress appropriately. Please do not wear dresses or open-toed shoes. Do not wear perfume, lotions, oils or powders on your chest.
- Consent: Prior to the test, you'll be asked to sign a consent form. Please don't hesitate to ask questions prior to the test.
Test
During this test, you'll:
- Have EKG electrodes attached to your chest and a blood pressure cuff attached to your arm
- Walk on a treadmill
You'll begin with a slow pace and speed up very gradually in order to get your heart rate up to a
range of 100 to 120 beats per minute (BPM). During this time, the T-Wave Alternans machine will analyze
certain features of your electrocardiogram to determine if you are at increased risk of developing
serious ventricular arrhythmias. This test may help to identify individuals who might benefit from
a defibrillator.
Resume your normal medication schedule after the test.
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