A cardiac stress test is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate how the heart functions during physical exertion. It helps determine if there is adequate blood flow to the heart muscle. During the test, a patient typically exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike while being monitored with an electrocardiogram (ECG). If a patient is unable to exercise, medication can be administered to simulate the effects of physical activity on the heart.
This assessment is crucial for identifying coronary artery disease, assessing the severity of existing heart conditions, and evaluating the effectiveness of cardiac treatments. Early detection of heart problems through this type of testing can lead to timely interventions, potentially preventing more serious cardiovascular events and improving overall health outcomes.