Recording an irregular heartbeat

What are Holter and Event Monitoring?

Holter and event monitoring are two painless ways to record your heartbeat when you're away from your doctor's office. Each one is a small electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) that you carry with you. They record your heartbeat for your doctor to review at a later time. The Holter records your heartbeat nonstop for a least 24 hours. The event monitor lets you record your irregular heartbeat as you feel it. You simply press a button. You may carry this monitor for days or weeks. It is important to stay away from electric blankets, magnets, metal detectors, and high voltage areas such as power lines as they may affect the recording.

Your Holter Monitor

When you receive a Holter monitor, small, painless electrodes (pads) are put on your chest. These connect to the lightweight unit, which attaches to a belt or shoulder strap. You need to keep the device on for at least 24 hours and complete a diary. While wearing the monitor, follow these tips:

• Try to sleep on your back.
• Don't take a shower. A sponge bath is okay.
• Follow your normal routine. Don't avoid stress, work or exercise.
• If an electrode falls of or the unit makes a noise, call the office to see what you should do.

In the Holter monitor diary:

• Write in the time of day for each entry you make.
• Note each change in activity, including when you take medicine.
• Note any symptoms you feel.

Your Event Monitor

After you are shown how to use your event monitor, carry it with you all the time. When you feel a symptom, activate the monitor by pressing a button (wristwatch style) or holding it to your chest (small box or credit card style). Be sure to keep a diary.

In the Event monitor diary:

• Write in the date and time for each entry you make.
• Note any symptoms you feel and what you are doing at that time.
• Note when you take your medicine.