About TMT test conclusion. Reverse it?

A result of "Positive for Induced Ischemia" on a Treadmill Test (TMT) means that while your heart may receive enough blood at rest, it does not get enough oxygen-rich blood when it is working harder during exercise. In medical terms, ischemia is a shortage of blood supply, often caused by narrowing or blockages (plaques) in the coronary arteries What it means for you: At 32, a positive TMT result is significant and requires a follow-up with a cardiologist. It suggests your heart muscle is struggling under stress, which is often a sign of early Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). TMT is a screening tool with about 70–80% accuracy. In about 10–20% of cases, a result can be a "false positive," meaning the test looks abnormal even though the arteries are actually clear You had mentioned radiating pain on your left side from C3–C5 disc issues. While spondylitis can cause left-sided pain, cardiac ischemia also causes pain that radiates to the left arm and neck. It is vital to distinguish between the two, as they can mimic each other

I would recommend further testing to confirm if there is a real blockage and how severe it is 1. Diagnostic Follow-up • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart to see how well the chambers and valves are pumping.  • CT Coronary Angiogram: A non-invasive scan that provides a 3D picture of your heart's arteries to look for calcium or plaque buildup.  • Coronary Angiogram (Gold Standard): If non-invasive tests show high risk, this invasive procedure uses a catheter and dye to see exactly where and how large any blockages are. 2. Medical Management If a blockage is confirmed, treatment usually involves:  • Medications: To lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol (statins), or thin the blood (aspirin) to prevent clots.  • Procedures: If blockages are severe (typically >70%), a doctor may suggest angioplasty (placing a stent) or, in multi-vessel cases, bypass surgery

Heart disease can often be managed or even stabilized through aggressive intervention.  • Lifestyle Reversal: Adopting a Mediterranean-style diet (low in saturated fats and sugar) and quitting smoking are the most effective ways to stop plaque from growing.  • Controlled Exercise: While your test was positive during stress, regular "heart-healthy" exercise (like 30 minutes of brisk walking 5 days a week) can actually strengthen your heart muscle over time. However, consult me before starting any new diet or exercise routine. You can consult me on Practo app (Dr. A. B. Karthikeyan - Cardiac surgeon) or for a physical consultation I am available at Medanta, Gurgaon.