What is the purpose of a stress test in medical practice?

The purpose of a stress test in medical practice is to assess heart response during exercise. This test is commonly used to determine how well the heart functions under physical stress, which often simulates the conditions of everyday activities that increase heart demand. During the test, the patient typically exercises on a treadmill or stationary bike while heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (ECG) readings are monitored. The results can help identify any potential cardiovascular problems such as coronary artery disease or arrhythmias. Therefore, the primary focus of a stress test is to evaluate the heart's performance and response to exertion.