What’s it for?
A holter monitor is a portable electrocardiogram (EKG) that monitors the electrical activity of an ambulatory (freely moving) patient’s heart around the clock for one to two days. The monitor is most often used when the physician suspects an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia). It may also be used when the patient is experiencing chest pain. This may be a sign the heart is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood (cardiac ischemia).
A Holter Monitor can be used to:
- Assess your heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Diagnose poor blood flow to the heart muscle (cardiac ischemia)
- Diagnose cause for chest pain
- Diagnose abnormalities of your heart, such as heart chamber enlargement and abnormal electrical conduction
Cardiac practices use event loop monitors which are also portable, but may be worn for longer periods of time—up to several months. When you have a heart rhythm irregularity, like palpitations, information is sent to your doctor automatically from the device.
How it’s done
Holter monitoring. A technician attaches several electrodes to your chest so your heart’s electrical activity can be monitored. That information is recorded by a small device that is worn on a belt or shoulder strap. At the end of the testing period—typically one to two days—you return the monitor so the data recorded can be analyzed.
Event loop monitoring. This device is attached in much the same way as a Holter monitor. When you feel symptoms of a heart problem, such as palpitations, you press a button on the monitor. Information on your heart’s electrical activity is then sent to your doctor for analysis. This device can be removed for bathing. At the end of the testing period—typically one to four weeks—you return the monitor so the recorded data can be analyzed
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