Arrhythmia Testing

Holter and Event Monitors are two painless ways to record your heartbeat away from the doctor's office. Each one is a small electrocardiogram (ECG) you carry with you that records your hearbeat for your doctor to review at a later time.

Holter Monitor - records your heartbeat non-stop for 24 hours. When you receive a Holter monitor, small, painless pads (electrodes) are put on your chest. These connect to a lightweight unit, which attaches to a belt or shoulder strap. You will need to keep the device on for 24 hours and complete a diary.

• Don't take a shower (a sponge bath is ok)
• Follow your normal routine -don't avoid stress, work or exercise
• If an electrode falls off or the unit makes a noise, call to see what you should do
• Stay away from electric blankets, magnets, metal detectors, and high-voltage areas such as power lines (they may affect the recording)
• Do not get close to a microwave

Event Monitor - records your heartbeat only when activated by you. When you receive an Event monitor, it may come in the form of a wristwatch, small box or credit card style. 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). After the recording is made, you then can phone it in. Always, be sure to keep a diary.