A Holter monitor is a medical device that helps measure the rate and rhythm of your heart and understand its condition. This device was developed by Dr. Norman J. Holter in 1957. Let us know more detail about ‘What Is A Holter Monitor?’.
What Is A Holter Monitor?
A Holter monitor, also known as a continuous electrocardiogram or ambulatory electrocardiography is used by medical professionals to detect conditions such as; arrhythmia, dizziness, or even fatigue. This test is available at multiple medical centres around the United States and can cost up to $350 or more.
Why Take a Holter Monitor Test?
A regular electrocardiogram or ECG cannot detect conditions that reduce after a while. Conditions such as; fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, etc. cannot be detected and a Holter monitor test is required.
it continuously monitors the heart’s conditions, this helps monitor the heart for longer periods. A Holter monitor can detect heart rate and its rhythm for periods as long as 24 hours or even up to 72 hours. Not only this, but if a patient is already on medications, the device can detect whether the medicines are working or not by reading the heart’s conditions.
What Is the Procedure?
Doctors order a Holter monitor test to understand the patient’s condition better, the machine is fitted and the patient is told to carry on with day-to-day activities as the system continues to measure heart rate and rhythm.
it is a small device comparable to the size of a deck of cards. It contains several leads or wires that are connected to a monitor. The leads are then connected to electrodes that are placed on the skin with the help of a glue-like gel. The test requires the patient to wear a pouch around the neck which holds the monitor in place. It is important to keep the monitor close to the body to ensure accurate results.
In case of trouble regarding the reattachment of electrodes or wires, it is recommended to seek help from a professional. Often, doctors provide necessary methods to reattach electrodes and take care of the monitor and other dos and don’ts while wearing the test kit. It is important to avoid having a bath and avoid getting in the water while wearing the monitor.
How Accurate Is the Holter Monitor?
You may wonder how to get accuracy while taking the test. It is recommended to keep the monitor as dry as possible and avoid activities that may result in the monitor becoming wet.
Along with this, there are other precautions as well:
- Avoid areas of high voltages as magnetic & electric fields may affect the readings taken by the device.
- If false results occur, you may need to get the device checked and also get it reconnected
These monitors are more effective for patients who exhibit day-to-day symptoms but can be less effective if the symptoms are less frequent. Following the necessary precautionary steps helps increase the accuracy of the results from the device.
Understanding the Results:
Post completion of the test means completing the recommended testing period (mostly 24 hours or 48 hours), visiting the concerned medical expert, and getting the Holter monitor removed.
The tests can reveal other heart conditions that are painless but exist. Moreover, results from the test can depict if the medicines provided are working or not and whether the dosage should be increased or decreased accordingly. Understanding the results of the test from the doctor is a must, it can give you a clearer sight of your heart’s condition and an understanding of what should be done to treat it.
How Much Does It Cost & Where to Get It?
Holter monitors can be found at most medical centres along with the help of cardiologists. Here are some examples of places where one can get their Holter monitor test done:
- South Baldwin Regional medical centre, Foley, AL
- East Jefferson General Hospital, Metairie, LA
- Heartland regional medical centre, Marion, IL
Many more medical centres like the ones stated above provide the required devices and Holter monitor tests. It is recommended to consult a professional as it is the best way to get access & knowledge about such tests.
Wondering how much a Holter monitor test costs? A Holter monitor test can cost anywhere between $200 to $400 around the United States. Pricing defers from place to place and different medical centres charge differently. Reach out to different medical centres to get an exact price range.
Conclusion:
the test is done to understand the heart’s conditions, it takes a continuous reading of the heart rate and its rhythm. Changes in heart rate and its beating rhythm can help detect different heart conditions. A Holter monitor test can cost from $200 to $400 at different medical centres around the US.
Frequently asked questions:
- Q) Are there any alternatives to Holter monitor?
Yes, other systems perform similar abilities like a Holter monitor. An example is; the Zio patch. A Zio patch is FDA approved ECG adhesive monitoring patch, it is comparatively easier to wear and less troublesome.
- Q) Is the Holter monitor test painful?
No, the Holter monitor is not at all painful, however, the adhesive used for sticking the electrode on the skin can irritate some people.
