What is a Holter Monitor?
One diagnostic test used to identify arrhythmias is a Holter monitor, which is a small cassette recorder that is worn by the patient for a period of 24 hrs, during which a continuous EKG recording is made. During this time, the patient writes down any symptoms he/she experiences in a diary, which is reviewed by the cardiologist when the rhythm recordings are analyzed.
A Holter monitor is a test that allows your provider to determine if there are changes in the heart’s rhythm or electrical appearance over a longer period of time than can be easily observed during one doctor’s appointment. It is most often done to evaluate symptoms that come and go and that might be related to heart-rhythm changes. Usually the Holter monitor is used over a 24-hour period, in the comfort of your own home.
