Holter Monitoring

What is a Holter monitor?

A Holter monitor is a portable, battery-operated device that measures and records heart activity. The monitor continuously tracks the data for 24 to 48 hours to identify potential underlying issues that affect heart health. A Holter monitor and similar cardiac monitors are a type of ambulatory electrocardiogram.

The device is the size of a small camera and has wires that attach to electrodes the size of a silver dollar. These electrodes attach to the surface of your skin to record the electrical signals your heart is producing.

The small size of the monitor doesn’t interfere with physical activities, and wearing it isn’t painful. The use of a Holter monitor also carries no risks for your health.

Why would I need a Holter monitor?

The cardiologists at Heart Care Center of Northwest Houston may recommend that you wear a Holter monitor to identify heart issues that aren’t detectable with other diagnostic testing.

In some cases, heart palpitations and other cardiac symptoms may come and go. By tracking your heart for up to 48 hours, your cardiologist can evaluate all of your heart’s activity to determine if you need additional testing or treatment for underlying conditions.

Your Heart Care Center of Northwest Houston cardiologist may request that you wear a Holter monitor to:

• Identify an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
• Evaluate oxygen flow to your heart
• Confirm heart medications are working
• Determine the cause of dizziness, fainting, or heart palpitations

Based on the information they gain from the Holter monitor, your cardiologist may request additional diagnostic testing or start you on treatment for underlying health issues that affect your heart.

What can I expect while wearing a Holter monitor?

Heart Care Center of Northwest Houston attaches your Holter monitor during an in-office visit. Your cardiologist attaches several electrodes to your chest and connects them to the monitor. To ensure an accurate connection, they may need to remove hair from the areas of your chest where they place the electrodes.

They make sure you know how to use and care for your Holter monitor. You can carry the device in your pocket, attach it to your waist, or use a purse to hold it.

You can expect to go about your usual routine while wearing the monitor, but you can’t shower or swim with it. You also need to avoid strong magnets and X-rays while connected to the Holter monitor.

How long do I need to wear a Holter monitor?

Your cardiologist asks you to keep a diary of your activities over a 24 or 48-hour period.

When your monitoring time is over, you return to the office, so they can remove it and evaluate your results. It may take one to two weeks to get the results of your Holter monitor test, and your Heart Care Center of Northwest Houston cardiologist can then determine if you need more testing or a treatment plan.

To learn more about the diagnostic benefits of a Holter monitor, call the Heart Care Center of Northwest Houston office nearest you or request an appointment through the online booking system.