What is the primary purpose of a cardiac stress test?

The primary purpose of a cardiac stress test is to evaluate cardiac performance under physical stress. This test is designed to assess how well the heart functions when it is required to work harder, such as during exercise or when exposed to stress-inducing conditions. By monitoring the heart's response—such as heart rate, blood pressure, and any changes in heart rhythm—healthcare providers can collect valuable information about the overall health of the cardiovascular system.

An important aspect of stress testing is its ability to reveal issues that may not be apparent when the body is at rest, such as the presence of coronary artery disease or other heart-related conditions. Identifying these issues early can lead to timely interventions and improve patient outcomes.

Other options such as measuring lung function, assessing mental health, or checking kidney function are not within the scope of a cardiac stress test. Each of these functions requires different types of evaluations and tests, highlighting the specific focus of the cardiac stress test on cardiovascular health.