You have been scheduled for a gastrointestinal diagnostic physiology test called a rapid calcium infusion test. Your doctor has arranged this test to evaluate for conditions which might cause excess acid production by your stomach. A small intravenous tube will be placed in your arm. Blood samples will be taken before and after a medicine is given which is meant to stimulate acid production.
Most patients have some soreness of their arm.
Most have transient symptoms of warmth, flushing and stomach fullness. We do avoid these tests in patients with significant heart disease. In some circumstances, your doctor will advise this test even if you have heart disease after discussing these issues with you. You must tell us of allergies or peculiar reactions you have had to medicines. In very rare circumstances complications can occur, but it should be emphasized that serious complications are very rare.