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A 24 hour heart monitor (also known as a Holter Monitor) records various electrical activity of the cardiovascular system for at least 24 hours. Since it can be worn during the patient’s regular daily activities, it helps the physician correlate symptoms of dizziness, palpitations or black outs. Since the recording covers a 24 hour continuous basis, Holter monitoring is much more likely to detect an abnormal heart rhythm when compared to the EKG.
How the Test is Performed
Electrodes (small conducting patches) are stuck onto your chest and attached to a small recording monitor. You carry the Holter monitor in a pocket or small pouch worn around your neck or waist. The monitor is battery operated. While you wear the monitor, it records your heart’s electrical activity. You should keep a diary of what activities you do while wearing the monitor. After 24 – 48 hours, you return the monitor to your doctor’s office. The doctor will look at the records and see if there have been any irregular heart rhythms. It is very important that you accurately record your symptoms and activities so that the doctor can match them with your Holter monitor findings. This test is completely painless.
How to Prepare for the Test
There is no special preparation for the test, however some patients may be required to shave their chest in order for the Electrodes to stick properly. Your doctor will start the monitor. You’ll be told how to replace the electrodes should they fall off or become 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.
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, or when starting new heart medication.
It may also be used to diagnose:
Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter
Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia
Palpitations
Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
Reasons for Fainting
Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia)
Ventricular Tachycardia