Test results generally come back within a week or two. After testingĪfter the test the monitor will be returned, and the doctor will compare the results with the daily activity and symptom diary. The patient will also be asked to keep a daily activity and symptom diary. There will be a button on the device that the patient can press to record any symptoms that arise during the test. Cell phones should be kept a minimum of 6 inches away from the device at all times. Even the smallest interruption can skew the results of the test. Patients are advised to avoid other electronics such as microwaves, metal detectors, and electronic blankets, razors, or toothbrushes. Certain models are wireless and can be disconnected so the patient can bathe. The device cannot get wet, which means no showering or swimming during the testing period.
Most patients are instructed to wear the Holter monitor at all times. Certain versions can even be carried in a pocket.
The electrodes can be hidden under clothing and the monitor can be worn around the neck, over the shoulder, or attached to the waistband. If the patient has a lot of chest hair, the technician will shave small patches so the electrodes can be adhered directly to the skin. Electrodes will be placed on the chest and connected back to the monitor via wires. The monitor is typically worn for 24-48 hours. Even if the patient is symptom-free, the doctor may require the use of a Holter monitor to detect any abnormalities. Pre-existing heart conditions can increase the chance of an abnormal heartbeat. If the patient’s symptoms are pointing to an irregular heartbeat, the doctor will likely order a Holter monitor. Because the test only records for a short amount of time, irregularities may not be captured. The test lasts approximately 20 minutes and records the patient’s heart rhythm. During the ECG, electronic nodes will be attached to the patient’s chest. If a physician suspects that a patient may be experiencing an irregular heart rhythm, an ECG will be ordered. Medicine and pacemakers can also cause irregular heartbeats.
Additional symptoms include shortness of breath and chest pain not attributed to exercise. Irregular heartbeats can include a heart beating too fast, too slow, or skipping a beat. When is testing needed?Ī Holter monitor is needed if a patient experiences irregular heartbeats or unexplained fainting. Typically, patients have results from the test in 1-2 weeks. The device is also called an ambulatory electrocardiogram (ECG). The device is worn consistently for 1-2 days and tracks every heartbeat during this time. A Holter monitor is a small device, about the size of a handheld camera, used to track a person’s heartbeat.
0 kommentar(er)
