A Holter monitor is a type of electrocardiogram device that is wearable and records the heart’s rate and rhythm. It provides a complete picture of these parameters as you perform everyday tasks. Holter monitors assist cardiology personnel in providing accurate cardiology monitoring and testing of patients.

This monitor is battery operated and has wires and electrode patches that attach to the skin.
It is comparable to the size of a cell phone. It records the electrical activity of the heart for 24 to 48 hours.

Who Needs to Wear a Holter Monitor?

If you have previously received results from an electrocardiogram (ECG) that were inconclusive, you may be a candidate for a Holter monitor. You may have seen your doctor because your heart was fluttering or racing, or you had fainted without explanation. The doctor may have
performed an ECG, but nothing conclusive was found. This is because an ECG only records the
activity of the heart for a short period of time, and the unusual activity may not have occurred during that short timeframe.

Health Conditions Holter Monitors Help Discover and Diagnose

A Holter monitor can detect and diagnose heart palpitations, arrhythmia, and unexplained
dizziness. A cardiology provider may also use a Holter monitor to determine how well your
pacemaker is functioning, your heart is receiving oxygen, or heart medicines are working.

What Not to Do When Wearing a Holter Monitor

When you are wearing a Holter monitor, be sure not to shower or bath, get close to a metal
detector or high voltage area, or receive an x-ray.

When Not to Use a Holter Monitor

A Holter monitor should not be used if you need urgent treatment for heart issues. The use of a cardiac monitor may delay urgent care. Also, if you do not have any heart symptoms, a provider is not going to use a Holter monitor.

If you need a Holter monitor from the Philips or Welch Allyn brand lines we offer, or want more information about our cardiology supplies, call us today at 800.433.7797 or complete our
contact form.