A Holter monitor is a device that monitors the heart’s electrical activity over an extended period. A patient wears the Holter monitor for 24 to 48 hours, after which time they return it to the doctor’s office, who then reviews the data collected. The Holter monitor records any abnormalities in heartbeat rhythm or other symptoms related to arrhythmias. You can use a Holter monitor to diagnose heart blocks, atrial fibrillation, and premature ventricular contractions (PVCs). PVCs are early beats that occur before the next expected beat. They’re not dangerous, but they may indicate a more significant problem such as coronary artery disease or cardiac hypertrophy. In this article, you will learn more about this device and why you may need to see a specialist in operating a Holter monitor in Queens.
What Does It Do?
A Holter monitor records your heart rhythm over 24 to 48 hours. The patient wears the Holter monitor and can go about their daily activities while recording. If there are any abnormal findings, such as PVCs or atrial fibrillation, the specialist will review the data and diagnose you based on the data collected.
Why Would You Need to See a Specialist?
You might share the monitor with other patients during your monitoring, which could be damaged or lost. Your specialist will recommend seeing a cardiologist in Queens if you need further testing, such as an echocardiogram or an ultrasound image of the heart. Your specialist can also guide you toward a treatment plan for your condition.
How Long Will the Holter Monitor Be on?
The device is worn for 24 to 48 hours, and then it’s returned to the specialist, where they review the data collected from this period. A patient may need further testing, such as an echocardiogram or an ultrasound of the heart if they experience symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath.
What Problems Does It Look For?
The Holter monitor can detect induced arrhythmias provoked by certain drugs like caffeine. It will also record your heart rhythm to look for PVCs, which are early beats before the next beat is expected. You may wear the device if atrial fibrillation or other types of arrhythmia exist.
It can also help diagnose heart blocks interruptions in electrical impulses between the atria and ventricles. This leads to a slower than normal rhythm called bradycardia or can lead to a fast-paced rhythm called tachycardia.
Who Can Use It?
The Holter monitor can be used by anyone who experiences symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. While the patient wears the monitor, they can go about daily activities and return it to the specialist when the monitoring period is over. You may also need it if you have other symptoms such as chest discomfort, dizziness, or fainting.
In summary, the Holter monitor is a piece of equipment that records heart rhythm over 24 to 48 hours. The patient can partake in everyday activities during this period, and it’s used to diagnose PVCs or atrial fibrillation. You may need to see a cardiologist in Queens if you experience symptoms such as rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath or require further testing such as an echocardiogram.
