A Holter monitor is a wearable device, and it records the heart rhythm. It is used to detect arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. Health care providers recommend them for people who have symptoms of an arrhythmia, unexplained fainting, or a heart condition that carries a risk of an arrhythmia.
How You Wear a Holter Monitor
If your health care provider has recommended that you wear a Holter monitor, you can choose a wireless Holter monitor. It is beneficial because if you have infrequent arrhythmias, an ECG may not detect them. You will learn how to wear the monitor at your health care provider’s office. Most of the time, they will tell you not to remove it for a period of time. They will place electrodes, or sensors, on your chest, and they may shave any hair off of your chest so that they stick. The Holter monitor is the size of a deck of cars, and the electrodes will connect with wires.
How Long to Wear It
Some people should wear the Holter monitor for one to two days, and during this time, it records the heartbeat. It is non-invasive, and it doesn’t cause any pain. The device can be worn on a strap or a belt, and the key is to make sure that it stays on the body throughout this time. It can be damaged by water, so you will need to remove it to shower or bathe. You can perform most of your daily activities as long as you don’t get it wet.
