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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding Holter Monitoring
Introduction
A Holter monitor is a portable device used to continuously record the electrical activity of your heart (ECG) for 24 hours or longer. It helps doctors detect irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that may not appear during a short ECG performed in a clinic.
Why is a Holter Monitor Used?
Your doctor may recommend a Holter monitor if: - You experience heart palpitations , dizziness, or fainting episodes. - You have an irregular heartbeat ( arrhythmia ), such as atrial fibrillation , ventricular tachycardia , or premature beats. - You’ve had a stroke and doctors suspect a cardiac cause. - You need to assess your heart’s reaction to medications or treatments.
How Does the Holter Monitor Work?
- Electrodes are placed on your chest and connected to the small recorder worn around your neck or waist.
- The device records heart activity continuously while you follow your normal daily routine.
- You may be asked to keep a diary of symptoms like dizziness or chest pain.
What Can a Holter Monitor Detect?
- Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Silent ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart, which may occur without symptoms)
- Heart rate variability (fluctuations in heart rate due to stress, activity, or sleep disorders)
How to Prepare for a Holter Test
- Wear loose clothing to make it easier to place electrodes.
- Avoid lotions or creams on your chest, as they can interfere with electrode contact.
- Continue normal activities , but avoid showering or swimming, as most monitors are not waterproof.
What Happens After the Test?
- When you return the device, your doctor will analyze the data and compare it with your symptom diary.
- If abnormalities are found, further testing or treatment may be recommended.
Conclusion
A Holter monitor is a useful tool for diagnosing heart conditions that might not appear on a short ECG. If you are experiencing unexplained palpitations or dizziness , ask your doctor whether this test is right for you.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Ambulatory ECG
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.100.8.886
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10483977/
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2000/0201/p884.html
- https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/S0735-1097%2899%2900354-X
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10458728/
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Arrhythmias
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Supraventricular-Tachycardia
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000091380.04100.84
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
Our advantages:
We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.