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Key Points
- Holter and event monitors are medical devices
that record the hearts electrical activity.
- Doctors most often use these monitors to diagnose
arrhythmias.
These are problems with the speed or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an
arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
- Holter and event monitors also are used to detect
silent myocardial ischemia. In this condition, not enough oxygen-rich blood
reaches the heart muscle. Silent means that no symptoms occur.
- These monitors also can check whether treatments
for arrhythmia and silent myocardial ischemia are working.
- Holter and event monitors are similar to an
EKG
(electrocardiogram). An EKG is a simple test that detects and records the
hearts electrical activity. Its the most common test for diagnosing
a heart rhythm problem. However, a standard EKG only records the heartbeat for
a few seconds.
- Holter and event monitors are small, portable
devices. You can wear one while you do your normal daily activities. This
allows them to record your heart for a longer time than an EKG. Holter and
event monitors are used to detect heart rhythm problems that may not occur all
the time.
- You may need a Holter or event monitor if your
doctor suspects you have a heart rhythm problem. Holter or event monitors are
most often used to detect these problems in people who have:
- Fainted or sometimes feel dizzy. A monitor
may be used if causes other than a heart rhythm problem have been ruled
out.
- Palpitations that recur with no known cause.
Palpitations are the feeling that your heart is pounding, racing, fluttering,
or beating unevenly.
- People who are being treated for a heart rhythm
problem also may need to use a Holter or event monitor. These monitors can show
how treatment is working.
- Your doctor will do a physical exam before giving
you a Holter or event monitor. There are many types of Holter and event
monitors. Your doctor will help decide which type is right for you.
- Your experience while using a Holter or event
monitor depends on the type of monitor you have. Your doctor will tell you how
to use your monitor.
- After youre finished using a Holter or
event monitor, you return it to your doctors office or the place you got
it from. Your doctor will tell you when to expect the results.
- A Holter or event monitor may show whats
causing symptoms of a heart rhythm problem. Holter and event monitors also can
show whether a heart rhythm problem is harmless or whether it needs treatment.
- Treatment is needed if the problem causes serious
symptoms or increases your chance for complications.
- Holter and event monitors have few risks.
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What Are the Risks Links
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