What is the primary purpose of a cardiac stress test?

The primary purpose of a cardiac stress test is to assess how well the heart performs under physical stress. During this test, patients engage in exercise, typically on a treadmill or stationary bike, while their heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are monitored. This process helps identify any potential issues that may not be apparent while the patient is at rest, such as arrhythmias, ischemia, or other heart-related problems.

By observing the heart's performance, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into the patient's cardiovascular fitness, the presence of coronary artery disease, and how effectively the heart can supply blood during increased physical activity. This information is crucial in guiding further diagnostic evaluations and treatment plans.

Other options focus on different aspects of health assessments that are not the main goal of a cardiac stress test. For instance, diagnosing existing heart conditions might occur as a secondary outcome, and evaluating lung function or monitoring electrolyte imbalances is outside the scope of what the stress test primarily aims to achieve.