Holter monitor

A Holter monitor is a small device that records the electrical activity of your heart. You wear it while you do all your normal activities.

The monitor has wires that attach to small electrode pads. These pads are taped to your chest.

This kind of machine has many different names. It is sometimes called an ambulatory monitor, an ambulatory electrocardiogram, or an ambulatory EKG. It can also be called a 24-hour EKG or a cardiac event monitor.

You may have this test to find out if you have a problem with your heart. Many heart problems can only be noticed when you are doing something. They may happen when you exercise, eat, have sex, or sleep. Or they may happen when you have a bowel movement or you feel stressed. Your Holter monitor will record the way your heart beats during all of these activities.

Holter monitoring also will:

• Look for what may cause chest pain, dizziness, or fainting.
• Check to see if treatment for an irregular heartbeat is working.

• Areas of your chest may be shaved and cleaned.
• The electrode pads are attached, like stickers, to your chest.
• Your doctor will show you how to wear or carry the monitor. For example, you might wear the monitor on a strap over your shoulder, hooked on a belt, or placed in a pocket. It does not weigh much.
• The monitor will record your heart's activity and save the information.
• Your doctor may give you extra instructions on how to use the monitor at home.