What is a Holter monitor?
A Holter monitor is a small, wearable deA Holter monitor is a kind of cardiac monitor that documents the activity of your heart for 24 or 48 hours. A cardiac monitor can assist in identifying the issue if you experience irregular pulse or heart palpitations, but an EKG didn't show anything abnormal.
Symptoms and signs of an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
A medical professional could advise a Holter monitor for you if you have the following:
- Symptoms and signs of an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Unaccounted fainting
- A condition of the heart that makes arrhythmias more likely
An electrocardiogram will be performed before you receive a Holter monitor (ECG or EKG). An ECG is a rapid and painless test that measures the heart's rhythm using sensors (electrodes) affixed to the chest.
An ECG could miss arrhythmias if you experience them infrequently. An ECG might miss abnormal cardiac rhythms, but a Holter monitor can detect it.
How is a Holter monitor used?
You will be given instructions and are connected to the cardiac monitor by a technician. Here's what to anticipate:
- The technician secures the electrodes to your chest after attaching them. Small, rounded, sticky patches make up the electrodes. They might need to shave your chest to ensure the electrodes stay in place.
- The technician will assist you with mounting the monitor and connecting it to the electrodes. They will describe how to maintain the monitor.
- The cardiac monitor may be kept in a pocket or bag for transport. Or you might strap it to your body like a handbag. It may also be worn around your waist.
- You can carry out most of your daily tasks while wearing the monitor.
- Keep a log of your activities and symptoms. Your technician will show you how to do this. Record symptoms, including chest discomfort, irregular or skipped heartbeats, and shortness of breath. Note the symptoms' onset date and your current activities. Your doctor will evaluate your EKG changes with your symptoms and activity.
A Holter monitor shows the activity of your heart over 24 or 48 hours. It can assist your doctor in determining the root of a cardiac condition that an EKG fails to detect. You wear the Holter monitor while performing your daily tasks. It aids your doctor in determining what is causing your racing heart, fluttering heart, or dizziness. The examination is painless. Your doctor discusses the outcomes and future actions with you when the test is complete.
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