What is Holter Monitor?
A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device that continuously records the heart’s electrical activity for 24 hours or longer. Unlike standard ECG, this device allows for long-term monitoring of heart activity during daily life.
How Does a Holter Monitor Work?
In a rhythm holter monitor examination, electrodes are attached to your skin, recording begins, and this device starts recording your ECG. It records your heart’s electrical activity for 24 or 48 hours. There are also ones that record for longer periods. You continue your normal daily activities while wearing it. The holter monitor monitor is a device about 3-4 centimeters in size that works with battery power or can be recharged.
Why is a Holter Monitor Used?
A holter monitor monitor is particularly used to detect intermittent arrhythmias. It is preferred to investigate complaints such as palpitations, dizziness, and feeling faint. It is also used for post-heart attack monitoring, evaluating the effectiveness of heart medications, and monitoring patients with pacemakers. Temporary rhythm disorders that cannot be detected in a normal ECG can be caught through holter monitor recording.
How is a Holter Monitor Attached?
Attaching a holter monitor is a simple and painless procedure. Electrodes attached to the chest area are connected to a small recording device via cables. This device is usually carried at the waist or hung around the neck. The wearing duration is determined by the physician and is generally between 24-48 hours. During this time, the patient can continue normal daily activities but should avoid showering. The patient is also asked to record their complaints and activities in a diary. At the end of the recording period, the device is removed, and the data is analyzed by computer.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Difference Between Holter Monitor and ECG?
ECG measures your heart’s activity at the moment you take the test. A holter monitor records how your heartbeat changes throughout the day while you perform your regular activities.
What is the Difference Between Holter Monitor and Event Recorder?
A holter monitor monitor continuously records your heart for 24 or 48 hours. An event recorder is not continuous. It only records your heart’s activity when you feel symptoms and activate the device.
What Should You Pay Attention to When Wearing a Holter Monitor Device?
After the holter monitor is attached, the nurse will give you necessary warnings. You can do most of your daily activities after having a holter monitor attached. Make sure the electrodes remain attached during the entire period the holter monitor is worn. You will be given spare electrodes. Use the spares if you have difficulty attaching the electrodes. Note the time if you experience complaints such as shortness of breath, skipped or irregular heartbeats, and chest pain. For example, “I felt palpitations for 1 minute at 08:20.” Your doctor will compare the changes in your ECG with your symptoms and activities. After the specified time period ends, you return the device to the healthcare facility where you received it.
What is a holter monitor test used for?
Diagnosis of arrhythmias Investigation of complaints such as palpitations and dizziness Detection of early signs of heart attack Evaluation of medication effectiveness
Is the holter monitor test painful?
No, the holter monitor test is painless and non-invasive. Some people may find the electrodes slightly uncomfortable.
Can I continue my normal life during the holter monitor test?
Yes, you can continue your daily activities. However, you should avoid activities that would cause the device to get wet, such as showering or swimming.
Can I sleep during the holter monitor test?
Yes, there is no problem with sleeping. In fact, recording your heart rhythm during sleep can provide important information.
Can I use a mobile phone during the holter monitor test?
Yes, but it’s recommended to keep the mobile phone away from the holter monitor device (for example, carry it in your other pocket).
When are holter monitor test results ready?
Results are usually ready within 1-2 weeks, but this can vary depending on the hospital.
Do I need to do anything during the holter monitor test?
You may be asked to note down symptoms you experience (palpitations, dizziness, etc.) and activities you perform.
Is special preparation required for a holter monitor test?
Generally, no special preparation is required. Wearing comfortable clothes is recommended. You should not apply cream to your chest area before the test.
Is the holter monitor test safe during pregnancy?
Yes, the holter monitor test is safe during pregnancy and does not involve any radiation.
How long does a holter monitor test last?
It usually lasts 24-48 hours, but can sometimes be extended up to 7 days.
Can I exercise during the holter monitor test?
Yes, you can continue your normal physical activities unless your doctor says otherwise.
Does the holter monitor device carry a risk of electric shock?
No, the Holter monitor device only records heart signals and does not deliver any electrical current.
Can the Holter monitor test always detect heart problems?
The Holter monitor test can detect many heart problems, but it cannot record problems that don’t occur during the test period. In this case, longer or different tests may be needed.
Reference: Holter Monitor