Holter

A Holter monitor (also known as a Holter electrocardiogram or Holter ECG) is a portable device used to continuously monitor the electrical activity of your heart for an extended period, usually 24 to 48 hours, though sometimes up to a week. It’s often used to detect heart rhythm problems that might not show up during a standard, short-term EKG (electrocardiogram).

  1. Electrodes and Sensors: Small, sticky patches (electrodes) are attached to your chest. These electrodes are connected by wires to a small portable device that you wear, typically around your waist or in a pocket.

  2. Continuous Monitoring: The Holter monitor continuously records your heart’s electrical activity throughout the day and night. It tracks the heart’s rhythm and detects irregularities that might not be noticed during a brief visit to the doctor.

  3. Symptom Diary: While you’re wearing the monitor, you may be asked to keep a diary to note any symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, palpitations, or shortness of breath. This helps doctors correlate symptoms with your heart’s activity.

  4. Data Analysis: After the monitoring period, you return the device to your doctor or the facility where it was set up. A technician or a cardiologist will analyze the data to look for irregularities such as arrhythmias, abnormal heart rates, or signs of ischemia (reduced blood flow to the heart).

Why it’s done:

  • Irregular Heart Rhythms: If you’re experiencing palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeats, a Holter monitor can help diagnose conditions like atrial fibrillation, tachycardia, or bradycardia.
  • Assessing Treatment: It’s also used to monitor how well a heart condition is being managed, particularly if you’re on medications for arrhythmias.
  • Unexplained Symptoms: For cases where symptoms like chest pain or dizziness happen infrequently, a Holter monitor can help catch problems that a standard ECG might miss.