STRESS TEST

A stress test, also known as an exercise stress test or treadmill test, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the heart's response to physical exertion. It typically involves having the patient exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while the heart's activity is monitored through electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings, blood pressure measurements, and sometimes echocardiography or imaging.

The primary purpose of a stress test is to assess how well the heart performs under stress, which can help diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease, exercise-induced arrhythmias, and other cardiovascular issues. The test can reveal symptoms such as chest pain or abnormal heart rhythms that may not be evident at rest.

Advancements in stress testing include the use of pharmacological agents for patients who cannot exercise and the integration of imaging techniques to provide more detailed assessments of heart function. Stress tests are valuable for evaluating cardiovascular health, guiding treatment decisions, and determining the effectiveness of interventions.