Holter monitor

What is a Holter Monitor?

A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart’s rhythms. The monitor is usually worn for 24 – 48 hours during normal activity.

Why the test is performed:

• To diagnose heart rhythm problems
• Reasons for fainting
• When starting a new heart medicine

How the test is performed

Electrodes (small conducting patches) are stuck onto your chest and attached to a small recording monitor. You carry the Holter monitor in a pocket or small pouch worn around your neck or waist. The monitor is battery operated.

While you wear the monitor, it records your heart’s electrical activity. You should keep a diary of what activities you do while wearing the monitor. After 24 – 48 hours, you return the monitor to your doctor’s office. A computerized result is seen by the doctor and a report will be send to you.

It is very important that you accurately record your symptoms and activities so that the doctor can match them with your Holter monitor findings.

Risk

There are no risks associated with the test. However, you should be sure not to let the monitor get wet.