There are a variety of reasons why your doctor may request that you wear a cardiac Holter monitor. If you are experiencing symptoms that would cause your doctor to recommend you do so, you are probably under some stress. Knowing more about a Holter monitor and what you can expect can help ease your anxiety.
What Can Be Learned From a Cardiac Holter Monitor
Wearing a Holter monitor doesn’t have to be intrusive. The monitor itself is small and is operated by battery. It measures your heart’s rhythm and rate as well as any arrhythmia or irregular beats. It provides your doctor with information on how your heart is working. It provides more information than a traditional electrocardiogram can give.
One reason the Holter monitor provides such valuable information is that you wear it continuously for a period prescribed by your doctor. This provides more complete information than a brief snapshot captured in an EKG. Your doctor may request that you wear the Holter monitor for up to 48 hours.
Many heart conditions can cause symptoms that appear in an irregular pattern. Using a Holter increases the likelihood that your doctor captures the event. This makes diagnosis easier and more effective.
The process of being fitted for and wearing the Holter is painless. The monitor itself is small, and it has several wires attached. The wires, known as leads, are connected to electrodes your doctor will apply to your skin. The Holter monitor is placed in a pouch around your neck, it is not attached to the body. Your doctor will probably recommend performing your normal daily activities while wearing the Holter, except swimming, bathing, and showering.
