Holter Monitor
What is it?
A Holter monitor is a small, battery-operated device
that is worn by a patient to record heart rate and rhythm,
usually over a 24-hour period. Also called continuous
ambulatory electrocardiography.
Who needs this procedure?
Symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of
breath, and chest pain often occur so briefly and
unexpectedly that they are difficult to detect during an
examination. A Holter monitor allows a doctor to see if
there are any changes in the electrical activity of the
heart over a period of time, especially during normal
activities. These types of changes could indicate
inadequate blood flow to the heart or abnormal heart
rhythms. If a patient is also experiencing dizziness or
has periods of lost consciousness, the brain’s electrical
activity may be measured at the same time to determine
whether symptoms are related to cardiac abnormalities or
another condition.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
You cannot get the Holter monitor wet, so it’s a good
idea to bathe before you have the monitor attached.
Otherwise, there are no special preparations for the
Holter monitor test.
How is this procedure performed?
The radiologist or technician will place a number of
stickers on the skin around your chest. He or she will
then attach wires called electrodes to the stickers. The
electrodes attach to the Holter monitor, a small device
that is carried in a pouch inside your clothes. Through
the wires, the monitor records your heart’s activity as
you go through your normal routine during the rest of the
day and evening. Remember, you can’t get the monitor wet,
so don’t take a bath or shower while wearing it. You will
be given a diary to take note of any symptoms and the
exact time they occurred, as well as your activity at that
time. After the monitor is removed, your doctor will
compare your diary with the records kept by the monitor.
In some cases, the monitor’s readings can be transmitted
directly from your home to the hospital’s or doctor’s
computer as soon as symptoms occur.
What can I expect after the procedure?
A Holter monitor test has no side effects. At the
completion of the test, you will return the monitor and
electrodes, which are easily removed, to your doctor so he
or she can analyze the results.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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