Holter Monitor
(Ambulatory ECG-Monitoring)
Introduction
An ECG or EKG records the electrical signals of your heart. It's a common test used to detect heart problems and monitor the electrical status of heart. An ECG is a non-invasive, painless test with quick results. Holter monitor is used to monitor ECG/EKG of your heart for extended periods (24- 72 hours).
What coronary angiogram is for?
- A Holter monitor is a small battery-operated portable and wearable device that can record a continuous ECG/EKG, usually for 24 to 72 hours.
- The wires from electrodes on your chest go to a recording device. The device can be carried in your pocket or worn on a belt or arm. Whilst you are wearing the monitor, you will be able to do your routine activates.
- In addition, your doctor will likely ask you to keep a diary of your symptoms including the type and timings.
- Once the monitoring is completed, your doctor will compare the time of symptoms with the electrical recordings and try to figure out the cause of your symptoms.
What is Holter Monitor for?
- This test is performed for prolong monitoring of heart rhythms.
- This is recommended in the following conditions:
- Palpitations and if the 12 lead ECG/EKG cannot explain the types.
- skipped beats
- Light-headedness or dizziness (syncope).
- The patient with unexplained syncopal episode
- The patient whom has experienced a transient episode of mini-stroke which is felt to possibly be secondary to cardiac rhythm disturbance
- The patients with high incidence of serious cardiac arrhythmias
- To diagnosis any transient heart blocks
- The patient has a pacemaker and clinical findings (history or physical examination) suggest possible pacemaker malfunction.
- Chest wound infection
- Kidney Problems
- Stroke
- Heart Attack, if a blood clot breaks loose soon after surgery