Holter Monitoring
A Holter monitor is a small and battery-operated portable device which is used to record heart’s activity (ECG) such as heart rate and heart rhythm continuously for 24 to 48 hours. The patient has to wear Holter Monitoring device while performing daily activities. This device has wires with electrodes which are attached to the skin. It records ECG as patient performs normal activity. Holter monitor also records various ECG intervals and irregular heartbeats. This testing is also called ambulatory electrocardiography. It is a vital tool for diagnosis of abnormal rhythms of heart.
Uses of Holter Monitoring
-Regular ECG test may not show some irregularities or abnormal heart rhythm as it is used only for short period of time.
-Holter Monitoring device is used for entire day or as per cardiologist’s advice. Hence it can record all abnormal heart beat rates and rhythm while performing any activity.
-This device is very helpful to the Cardiologists in deciding medication or treatment plans. Device record shows whether the medicines are properly working or not. In this way Holter Monitoring device provides crucial data to the cardiologist.
-Device also shows the rhythm coinciding with symptoms such as dizziness, faintness or the feeling of heart is racing or skipping a beat.
Working of Holter Monitoring
-A well trained medical technician firstly attaches the electrodes to the chest with glue like gel.
-The patient can carry device in a pocket or pouch or attach to the waist. The device should always keep close to the body for accurate readings.
-The technician gives important instructions regarding do’s and don’ts.
-Patient should avoid bathing, swimming and showering while wearing device.
-The technician shows how to keep note of activities and symptoms during a test. -The patient should keep accurate notes. These notes are helpful to the Cardiologist to assess the data recorded by Holter Monitoring.
Risks of Holter monitors
-Holter Monitoring device has no risk and also does not cause any pain. This device has wires which are connected to the electrodes. The electrodes are attached to the chest with the help of adhesives to record ECG. The device is small and easily portable.
-After the testing time is over, patient should visit the Cardiologist for removing Holter Monitoring device. The cardiologist reads the report and analyzes the results. Cardiologist can change or continue the treatment and medication plans as per the assessment of the reports.
-Holter Monitoring test is a painless and most efficient test to detect potential heart problems related to abnormal rhythms.
