HolterMonitor

A Holter monitor is a portable device used to record the electrical activity of the heart over a prolonged period, typically 24 to 48 hours, but sometimes longer. It is a type of electrocardiogram (ECG) that provides a continuous recording, unlike a standard ECG which captures only a brief snapshot. The monitor consists of a small, battery-operated recording unit connected to electrodes placed on the chest. These electrodes detect the heart's electrical signals and transmit them to the recording device.

The primary purpose of a Holter monitor is to detect and evaluate heart rhythm abnormalities, also known as arrhythmias, that may not be apparent during a routine ECG. These abnormalities can include irregular heartbeats, palpitations, or symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath that are intermittent. By monitoring the heart's activity over an extended period, a physician can correlate symptoms with specific cardiac events.

Patients are instructed to wear the Holter monitor continuously and to go about their normal daily activities. They are typically asked to keep a diary of their activities, symptoms, and any events they experience, noting the time of each occurrence. This diary helps the physician analyze the recorded data and understand the relationship between the patient's symptoms and their heart rhythm. After the monitoring period, the device is returned to the healthcare provider, and the recorded data is analyzed by a cardiologist or other trained professional. The results can help diagnose conditions such as atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, or other more complex arrhythmias, guiding subsequent treatment decisions.