Holter Monitor is also known as ambulatory ECG monitoring.

What is a Holter monitor?

Holter monitor is a small device that continuously records ECG in real time. It is like a pocket size ECG machine which is recording your ECG Beat by beat continuously for duration as determined by your physician. The usual duration is 24 hour however it may be extended up to 7 days.

Why has your doctor ordered a holter monitor test?

Holter monitor test is used for diagnosing Rhythm abnormalities. By continuously recording ECG holter test is able to pinpoint both symptomatic and asymptomatic arrhythmia disorders.

The different arrhythmia disorders that your doctor maybe seeking information on are

1 disorders of slow heart rate also called bradyarrhythmias. Usually very slow heart rate or heart suddenly stopping also called as asystole may give rise to symptoms of dizziness, presyncope, syncope.

2 disorders of fast heart rate also called as tachyarrhythmias. Patients with tachyarrhythmias may have symptoms such as palpitations dizziness lightheadedness presyncope or syncope.

3 holter monitoring test is also useful in quantifying the burden of arrhythmia. This may include quantifying the burden of premature ventricular complexes or assessing the average heart rate in patients with atrial fibrillation. Either case it is an useful tool in clinical decision making for treatment of arrhythmias.

What should I expect with the Holter monitor?

A specially trained technician will attach the Holter monitor and instruct you how to record your symptoms while wearing it.

• The technician first attaches the electrodes to your chest. If you have a hairy chest, he or she may shave some hair off to attach the electrodes firmly.
• Once the electrodes are in place, the technician helps you put the Holter monitor on and explains how to take care of it.
• You can carry the monitor in a pocket or pouch, slung across your shoulders and neck like a purse or camera, or attach it to your waist.
• Do your usual activities while you wear the monitor with these exceptions:
  • Don’t bathe, shower or swim while wearing the monitor.
  • Don’t have X-rays while wearing the monitor.
  • Stay away from high-voltage areas, metal detectors or large magnets.

The technician will show you how to keep a diary of your activities and symptoms during the test. It’s important to keep an accurate diary. If you feel symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats or dizziness, note in your diary the time of day they began and what you were doing. Your diary will be compared to the changes in your ECG recorded by the Holter monitor.

• After the test period, return the monitor to the technician. He or she will process the record of your heart activity and prepare a report for your doctor. This will include the notes in your diary.