Any risk to do treadmill test while in PCS?
 

While I am still experiencing PCS symptoms, I developed chest pain several times. Doctors suggested me to do the treadmill test to rule out heart problems. I am not sure if it is a good idea to do so since I am having dizziness and the feeling of the brain is full of blood (My brain cannot control the blood pressure well). Should I do it or not? My blood pressure is usually normal (110/75) and my normal pulse is between 70-80. I don't know if the pressure inside the skull is the same as the one in my arm. What I am afraid is the monitor on my arm reads normal but the blood pressure inside the skull is high so vessels blow. Does any one have done that before? Both cardiologist and neurologist said it is fine but they seem careless...

Johnson,

Welcome to NeuroTalk.

I don't think you will have a problem doing the treadmill stress EKG. There will be a cardiac nurse right next to you to watch you. The test may give you a head ache but you can ask for something to bring your BP down if the head ache lasts or becomes unbearable.

I have done two EKG's laying down and two stress EKG's after suffering a concussion with no problem. I know my heart is in good shape.

It will be worth it to rule out any heart issues.


My best to you.

My heart rate and blood pressure weren't normal in the months following concussion. It felt like my heart was beating too hard and the pulse in my neck was crazy. I think it's normal enough with a concussion, I've read of others on here having the same symptom. I doubt you have a heart problem, and would only do the treadmill if it doesn't make any other symptoms flare up.

I found that following my concussion, running would significantly worsen my symptoms because my head was so sensitive to any jolting that it was like I was getting banged on the head with each step.

Although the blood pressure thing is very uncomfortable I don't think there's a risk that a vessel will burst or anything. That would basically be a stroke, and I haven't heard anything about increased risk of stroke following a concussion.

If I were you I would do the test but I would only walk on the treadmill, not run. But I am not you and your symptoms will be different, so it's up to you obviously.

Johnson,

If you are unable to use the treadmill you can ask your MD about a Nuclear Stress Test. This will allow the MD to inject you with a medication that brings your heart rate up. They then scan your heart. There is a resting and an active portion. Just a thought since you were worried you may have other options. Good luck.

Johnson If you want to take a nuclear stess test please talk with your doc.This test takes 3 to 4 hours.The nuclear stuff is shot in you so they can take pictures of your heart not to increase your heart rate.