Good Day,
I am having a stress echo soon. I have some logistical questions and maybe 1 or 2 more. First, why can't you eat within 6 hours of the test? Is it because it would effect the test readings, or is it just because they are worried about you vomiting or being too bloated to exercise?
I was also wondering, will they make me exercise until my HR reaches 220 minus my age? Is that the idea?
Finally, the last part of my question. I am obese. I'm 5'10" 300 lbs (male). Although I do exercise regularly, I only do a heart rate of 140 or so. Plus, I have chronic fatigue. I am worried that pushing myself into the 180's will cause me to pass out or something. Is being at my weight going to be bad news pushing my heart so hard? Does obesity not cause one's heart to be far more stressed at the same heart rate than a slim person?
BTW, I am having this test because I had shortness of breath with PVC's. I had a normal echo before, but no stress test. My potassium is chronically borderline low, average 3.4.....would this be a possible cause of PVC's and how to bring up my potassium?