Holter Heart Recording

What is Holter Heart recording?

A Holter heart recording is a continuous, non-invasive test that monitors the electrical activity of your heart using a portable device called a Holter monitor. This device is worn for 24 to 48 hours or longer, depending on your doctor’s recommendation, to detect irregular heart rhythms or other cardiac abnormalities that may not be captured during a standard ECG (electrocardiogram) done in a doctor’s office.

Call Now Book an appointment
Holter Heart Recording
When is it Required?

A Holter monitor is typically prescribed when:

  • Symptoms are present that suggest an irregular heart rhythm or other cardiac issues, such as:
    • Palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering)
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness
    • Fainting (syncope)
    • Unexplained fatigue
    • Shortness of breath or chest discomfort
  • Diagnosing arrhythmias: If a standard ECG did not capture any abnormalities, but symptoms persist.
  • Monitoring after a heart event: Following a heart attack or after starting a new medication to evaluate its effects on your heart.
  • Assessing pacemaker function: To ensure it is working properly and that no abnormal rhythms are occurring.
  • Evaluating heart health during stress or sleep: Some irregularities only occur during specific activities or at rest.
Call Now Book an appointment

Why is it Important?

A Holter monitor helps doctors:

  • Identify and diagnose intermittent arrhythmias that may be missed in a shorter ECG.
  • Assess how your heart reacts to daily activities, stress, or medications.
  • Detect any early warning signs of cardiac conditions that could lead to more serious issues, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
  • Guide treatment decisions and adjust medications or therapies.

How is it Used?

Angiography is crucial for diagnosing and treating various cardiovascular conditions. Here’s why it is often required:

  • Electrodes (small adhesive patches) are placed on your chest, and wires connect them to a small recording device.
  • You are asked to continue your normal daily activities while wearing it.
  • You may need to keep a diary to record symptoms and activities during the monitoring period.
  • The data collected is reviewed by your doctor to provide a detailed analysis of your heart’s function over time.
Call Now Book an appointment

FAQs

A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that continuously records the electrical activity of your heart for 24–48 hours (or longer, in some cases). It helps detect irregular heart rhythms or other cardiac abnormalities.

A regular ECG records heart activity for a few seconds to minutes in a controlled setting, while a Holter monitor tracks your heart’s activity continuously over an extended period, capturing irregularities that may not occur during a brief ECG.

No, wearing a Holter monitor is not painful. Electrodes are attached to your chest with adhesive patches, and the device is lightweight and portable.

You should avoid:
– Showering, bathing, or swimming (the device is not waterproof).
– Activities that cause excessive sweating, as it can loosen the electrodes.
– Exposure to high magnetic fields or electrical devices, such as microwave ovens or electric blankets, which may interfere with the recording.

Yes, unless your doctor advises otherwise. Normal daily activities, including exercise, can help capture heart activity during different levels of exertion. However, avoid excessive sweating or activities that could damage the monitor.

Yes, most doctors ask you to keep a diary of your activities, symptoms (e.g., dizziness, palpitations, or chest pain), and the time they occurred. This helps correlate your symptoms with the monitor’s data.

Yes, the Holter monitor is designed to be worn 24/7, including while you sleep. Ensure that the electrodes remain attached during the night.