Cardiac Stress Test in The Woodlands, TX

Some heart problems only show up when your heart is working hard. Our cardiac stress test in The Woodlands, TX shows Dr. Fernandes exactly how your heart performs under exertion, right in the comfort of her office.

What Is a Cardiac Stress Test?

A stress test reveals how well your heart works as physical activity increases and it has to pump more blood to your body. In most cases, you’ll walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike to raise your heart rate.

If you can’t tolerate exercise, an exercise stress test in The Woodlands can be replaced with a medication-based version of the same cardiac diagnostic testing, so you still get accurate results.

Dr. Fernandes monitors your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure throughout, and reviews your results with you right after testing. If chest pain or an irregular heartbeat has you wondering what’s going on, this is often the next right step.

Types of Stress Tests We Offer

Exercise Treadmill Stress Test

Electrodes and a blood pressure cuff track your heart while you walk on a treadmill at increasing intensity.

Cardiolite Nuclear Stress Test

A gamma camera captures images before and after exercise, revealing blockages, scarring, or areas of reduced blood flow.

Lexiscan Pharmacological Stress Test

For patients who can't exercise, IV medication raises your heart rate so we can capture the same detailed images.

Book Your Cardiac Stress Test in The Woodlands, TX

If chest pain, a racing heart, or shortness of breath only shows up when you're active, a stress test can find out why. Schedule yours with Dr. Fernandes today.

Schedule My Stress Test

When Do You Need a Stress Test?

Dr. Fernandes often recommends a stress test to get to the bottom of heart-related symptoms like chest pain or a fast heartbeat, especially when coronary artery disease is a concern. If you’ve been looking for a stress test cardiologist near you, a test can help:

Our Woodlands Heart & Vascular Institute serves patients across Montgomery County, TX. Dr. Fernandes helps you build a safe, heart-healthy exercise plan depending upon your vascular health. Ready to find out how your heart performs under pressure? Schedule your test.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect during a nuclear stress test appointment?

Dr. Fernandes combines imaging with your stress test for a clearer look at blood flow to your heart:

Electrodes, a blood pressure cuff, and an injection of Cardiolite prepare you for imaging
A gamma camera captures images before and after exercise, or after IV medication like Lexiscan (during nuclear stress test), if you can’t exercise
You’re monitored closely throughout; tell Dr. Fernandes right away if you feel dizzy, short of breath, or lightheaded
A final round of images, taken after a short wait, helps spot blockages or scarring and predict your future heart risk

How long does a stress test take?

Most stress tests take 45 minutes to an hour, including setup, testing, and monitoring afterward. Nuclear stress tests can take a bit longer since they include imaging before and after exercise.

Is a stress test safe?

Yes. Dr. Fernandes monitors your heart rate, rhythm, and blood pressure throughout the entire test and can stop it immediately if you don’t feel well.

What's the difference between an exercise and a nuclear stress test?

An exercise stress test tracks your heart’s electrical activity while you walk on a treadmill. A nuclear stress test in The Woodlands, TX adds imaging with a gamma camera to show blood flow and heart muscle function in more detail.

Do I need to prepare for my stress test?

Yes. You’ll typically need to avoid caffeine and certain medications beforehand, and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Our office will give you specific instructions when you schedule.

What if I can't exercise on a treadmill?

That’s not a problem. Dr. Fernandes can use medication, like Lexiscan, to safely raise your heart rate and get the same diagnostic information.

Appointment