What Is Holter Monitoring?
Holter monitoring is a painless way to record your heartbeat away from the doctor’s office. It is a small electrocardiogram (ECG) that you carry with you. Holter monitoring records your heartbeat for your doctor to review at a later time. You can receive your heart monitor in a hospital, test center, or doctor’s office.
Your Holter Monitor
When you receive a Holter monitor, small, painless pads (electrodes) are put on your chest. These connect to the lightweight unit, which attaches to a belt or shoulder strap. You need to keep the device on for at least 24 hours and complete a diary. While wearing the monitor, follow these tips:
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Try to sleep on your back.
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Don’t take a shower. A sponge bath is okay.
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Follow your normal routine. Don’t avoid stress, work, or exercise.
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If an electrode falls off or the unit makes noise, call to see what you should do.
When Using a Monitor
Stay away from electric blankets, magnets, metal detectors, and high-voltage areas such as power lines. They may affect the recording.
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Holter Monitor Diary
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Write in the time of day for each entry you make.
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Note each change in activity, including when you take medicine.
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Note any symptoms you feel.
Publication Source:
Miller JM, Zipes DP, Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine, 8th ed., Chapter 32 – Diagnosis of Cardiac Arrhythmias, 2007, pp 766-768, 769f
Publication Source:
Olgin JE, Cecil Medicine, 23rd ed., Chapter 61 – Approach to the Patient with Suspected Arrythmia, 2007, pp 399
Online Medical Reviewer:
Braunstein, Joel MD
Date Last Reviewed:
10/21/2004
Date Last Modified:
6/7/2006