Your doctor might recommend a monitored test if you experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or fainting. This device can help diagnose various heart conditions, including arrhythmias, and determine the best course of treatment.
In this blog post, we will discuss when to expect your doctor to use a Holter monitor and what to expect during the test.
Evaluation of Palpitations
If you experience palpitations, your doctor may recommend a monitor test. Palpitation refers to the sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeats. A Holter monitor (HM) can help record these episodes and investigate their cause. During the test, you will be asked to wear the device for 24 to 48 hours while keeping a log of your activities and symptoms.
This log will help your doctor correlate any changes in your heart rhythm with your daily activities and determine if any underlying heart condition is causing the palpitations.
Evaluation of Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is a condition where your heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly. It can lead to various symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Your doctor may recommend a Holter monitor test if you have already been diagnosed with an arrhythmia or if you have symptoms suggestive of one.
The device can help record your heart rhythm over an extended period, giving your doctor insights into the frequency and severity of arrhythmias and determining the best course of treatment.
Assessment of Treatment Efficacy
If you have been prescribed medications or therapy to treat an arrhythmia, your doctor may recommend an HM test to assess their efficacy. The device can help record your heart rhythm before and after treatment to determine if the therapy is working or if changes are necessary.
Additionally, if you experience side effects from the medication, the Holter monitoring can record these events and help your doctor adjust the dosage or the type of medication.
