A heart holter test involves a small monitor, called a “holter”, to measure various things about your heart.
What is a Heart Holter Test?
A heart monitor test involves a small battery-powered medical device that measures your heart rate and rhythm. Electrodes are attached to your chest for 12-24 hours, and these feed the monitor which sits on your waistband.
Why are Heart Holter Tests Performed?
If you have any concerns about your heart rate or rhythm, a heart holter test is a great way to keep an eye on your heart over the course of a day. It can pick up chest pains, irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias.
If you have symptoms like dizziness, fatigue or chest pain (among others) a heart monitor test can help get to the cause of the problem.
How to Prepare for a Heart Holter Test
There are a few minor considerations ahead of your test. Primarily, shower prior to your appointment as you won’t be able to get it wet whilst attached.
The hair on your chest may need to be shaved prior to attaching, to help the electrodes stick.
What Happens During a Heart Holter Test?
The test assesses and monitors heart rate, to provide relevant information for the doctor at the conclusion of the 24 hours. During the time of the test, you will simply wear the electrodes and the monitor, and go about your daily activities.
You will not remove the monitor or electrodes until the conclusion of the test.
You will probably also be required to keep a time-record about your activities, and any symptoms you experience.
You will also wear the monitor during sleep.
What Happens After a Heart Holter Test?
After the test you’ll return to our practice, where we’ll remove the electrodes and monitor.
We will review the results along with your diary, and make recommendations for next steps and treatment if required.