The 24 hour Holter test

Holter ECG test is used for continuous monitoring of heart rate and rhythm for at least 24 hours. The extended recording period is used to identify occasional rhythm disturbances that would be difficult to identify in a shorter period of time as they come and go at various times throughout the day or night.  The digital Holter is often used to find correlation between any abnormal rhythm and the patient's symptoms, such as dizziness, palpitations, shortness of breath or chest pain.

How the test is performed:

The digital  monitor records electrical signals via a series of electrodes attached to the chest.

Electrodes will be applied to your chest and connected to wires attached to an EKG machine. This small Holter EKG is carried in a small pouch worn around your neck or waist.

You may be asked to keep a diary of activities (running, sleeping) you do while wearing the digital recorder. It is important that you accurately record symptoms and times they occur so that the doctor can match them with your holter test findings.

The digital Holter continuously records and stores data for a one day period usually.

When recording is obtained, you return the device to your doctor's office and all wires and electrodes are removed.

How to prepare for the test:

There is no special preparation for the test. Make sure you shower or bathe before the electrodes are applied to your chest, since you won't be able to do these activities while the test is in progress.

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any adhesives.

Please wear loose-fitting clothes. Buttons down the front of a shirt or blouse is preferable. This makes it convenient to apply the EKG electrodes, and also comfortably carry the monitor in a relatively discreet manner. No syntethic materials should be worn.

What the risks are:

A Holter EKG is a non-invasive test. It is painless and there are no risks associated with the test.
However, some patients may be asked to have their chest shaved so the electrodes can stick.

Special considerations:

The digital Holter may not be used in the shower.

Electrodes must be firmly attached to the chest – it is not allowed to remove the device or the electrodes so the equipment gets an accurate recording of the heart's activity

Avoid magnets, metal detectors, electric blankets and high-voltage areas while wearing the digital EKG monitor.