Is the nuclear stress test safe?

A nuclear stress test is usually safe and only rarely causes complications, according to Mayo Clinic. Some of the most common risks associated with this medical procedure include arrhythmia, heart attack, chest pain and allergic reactions.

During a nuclear stress test, a radioactive dye is inserted into the bloodstream and two images of the heart are taken: one when the heart is at rest and another while the heart is beating hard as a result of physical exertion or medication. Some people are allergic to the radioactive dye, while others may experience abnormal heart rhythms, chest pain or very rarely a heart attack from the physical activity or cardioactive medication, explains Mayo Clinic.