Tag: Treatment Options

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Understanding a Pharmacological Cardiac MRI Stress Test

A pharmacological Cardiac MRI stress test is a type of imaging test used to assess the health of your heart. It is used to detect any blockages in the coronary arteries, which can lead to a heart attack. The test is done by injecting a contrast agent into the bloodstream and then using an MRI machine to take images of the heart.

Can I eat or drink the day of the test?

It is recommended that you do not eat or drink anything for at least four hours before the test. This is to ensure that the contrast agent is not diluted by food or drink.

Should I take my medications the day of the test?

It is important to discuss this with your doctor before the test. Some medications may need to be stopped for a period of time before the test, while others may need to be taken as normal.

What to expect during the test?

During the test, you will be asked to lie on a table and an IV will be inserted into your arm. The contrast agent will then be injected into your bloodstream and the MRI machine will take images of your heart.

How long will the test last?

The test usually takes about 30 minutes to complete.

How do I get the results of my test?

Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you. They will be able to tell you if there are any blockages in your coronary arteries and what treatment options are available.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Cardiac MRI. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cardiac-mri/about/pac-20384669
2. American Heart Association. (2020). Cardiac MRI. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-mri
3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Cardiac MRI. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/cardiac-mri

Keywords: Cardiac MRI, Stress Test, Contrast Agent, Coronary Arteries, Treatment Options

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Anorectal Manometry: What You Need to Know

Anorectal manometry is a test used to measure the strength and coordination of the muscles and nerves in the lower digestive system. It is used to diagnose and evaluate conditions such as fecal incontinence, constipation, and rectal pain.

What are the parts of the lower digestive system?

The lower digestive system includes the rectum, anal canal, and anus. The rectum is the last part of the large intestine, and the anal canal is the short tube that connects the rectum to the anus. The anus is the opening at the end of the digestive tract.

When would anorectal manometry be needed?

Anorectal manometry may be recommended if you are experiencing symptoms such as fecal incontinence, constipation, or rectal pain. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.

How does the test work?

During anorectal manometry, a thin tube is inserted into the rectum. The tube is connected to a machine that measures the pressure of the muscles and nerves in the lower digestive system.

How do I prepare for the test?

Before the test, you should avoid eating or drinking for at least four hours. You should also avoid taking any medications that can affect the results of the test.

What happens during anorectal manometry?

During the test, the tube will be inserted into the rectum and the machine will measure the pressure of the muscles and nerves in the lower digestive system. The test usually takes about 30 minutes.

What will happen after the test?

After the test, you may experience some mild discomfort or cramping in the rectal area. This should go away within a few hours.

If my doctor finds something during the test, what are my treatment options?

If your doctor finds something during the test, they may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery. Your doctor will discuss the best treatment options for you.

References

  • Mayo Clinic. (2020). Anorectal manometry. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/anorectal-manometry/about/pac-20384790
  • U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Anorectal manometry. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003890.htm
  • Cleveland Clinic. (2020). Anorectal manometry. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17072-anorectal-manometry

Keywords: anorectal manometry, lower digestive system, rectum, anal canal, anus, fecal incontinence, constipation, rectal pain, treatment options.