Event Holter Monitor
A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart's rhythms. The monitor is worn for 24 - 48 hours during normal activity.
How the Test is Performed
Electrodes (small conducting patches) are stuck onto your chest. These are attached by wires to a small recording monitor. You carry the Holter monitor in a pocket or pouch worn around your neck or waist. The monitor runs on batteries.
While you wear the monitor, it records your heart's electrical activity.
While wearing the device, avoid:
Continue your normal activities while wearing the monitor. You may be asked to exercise while being monitored if your symptoms have occurred in the past while you were exercising.
How to Prepare for the Test
You do not need to prepare for the test.
A medical assistant will start the monitor. You'll be told how to replace the electrodes if they fall off or get loose.
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any tape or other adhesives. Make sure you shower or bathe before you start the test. You will not be able to do so while you are wearing a Holter monitor.
How the Test will Feel
This is a painless test. However, some people may need to have their chest shaved so the electrodes can stick.
You must keep the monitor close to your body. This may make it hard for you to sleep.
Why the Test is Performed
Holter monitoring is used to determine how the heart responds to normal activity. The monitor may also be used:
Risks
There are no risks associated with the test. However, you should be sure not to let the monitor get wet.
How the Test is Performed
Electrodes (small conducting patches) are stuck onto your chest. These are attached by wires to a small recording monitor. You carry the Holter monitor in a pocket or pouch worn around your neck or waist. The monitor runs on batteries.
While you wear the monitor, it records your heart's electrical activity.
- Keep a diary of what activities you do while wearing the monitor, and how you feel.
- After 24 - 48 hours, you will return the monitor to the office.
- The doctor will look at the records and see if there have been any abnormal heart rhythms.
While wearing the device, avoid:
- Electric blankets
- High-voltage areas
- Magnets
- Metal detectors
Continue your normal activities while wearing the monitor. You may be asked to exercise while being monitored if your symptoms have occurred in the past while you were exercising.
How to Prepare for the Test
You do not need to prepare for the test.
A medical assistant will start the monitor. You'll be told how to replace the electrodes if they fall off or get loose.
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any tape or other adhesives. Make sure you shower or bathe before you start the test. You will not be able to do so while you are wearing a Holter monitor.
How the Test will Feel
This is a painless test. However, some people may need to have their chest shaved so the electrodes can stick.
You must keep the monitor close to your body. This may make it hard for you to sleep.
Why the Test is Performed
Holter monitoring is used to determine how the heart responds to normal activity. The monitor may also be used:
- After a heart attack
- To diagnose heart rhythm problems
- When starting a new heart medicine
- Atrial fibrillation or flutter
- Multifocal atrial tachycardia
- Palpitations
- Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
- Reasons for fainting
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Ventricular tachycardia
Risks
There are no risks associated with the test. However, you should be sure not to let the monitor get wet.
