A Holter monitor is a portable device that is roughly the size of an iPod. It records all of your heartbeats on tape for a continuous period of at least 24 hours and is typically ordered when patients complain of symptoms like dizziness, syncope, or palpitations. A Holter monitor is far more effective at detecting abnormal heart rhythms than an EKG since it records your heartbeat for an extended period.

To perform Holter monitoring, electrodes will be attached to your chest and you will be required to carry a recording monitor in your pocket or in a small pouch that you can wear around your neck or waist. The Holter monitor will record your heart’s electrical activity. While you’re wearing the monitor, be sure to take note of all of the activities you engage in and any symptoms you experience. Event recorders are special monitors used to correlate the patient’s symptoms with abnormal heart rhythms.

After 24-48 hours, Dr. Stevens will evaluate the results that were recorded to determine if there are any abnormal heart rhythms and then match them with the activities and symptoms in your notes. Holter monitoring is painless, and you can take part in your normal daily activities throughout the entire process. You must keep the monitor close to your body, however, which can make it difficult to sleep.

To prepare for the test, some patients may need to shave their chest so that the electrodes will stick to their skin. Because of the electrical circuitry, it is recommended that you shower before applying a Holter monitor. Otherwise, no special preparation is necessary.