Holter

A Holter monitor is a portable device for continuously monitoring the electrical activity of the heart for usually 24 hours. Its extended recording period is sometimes useful for observing occasional cardiac arrhythmias which would be difficult to identify in a shorter period of time.

Much like an EKG, the Holter monitor records electrical signals from the heart via 3-8 electrodes attached to the chest. These electrodes are connected to a small piece of equipment that is attached to the patient's belt, which records a log of the heart's electrical activity throughout its use.

Wearing these devices does not expose the patient to any hazards and it should have little effect on one's normal daily life. The recording device can be worn in a case on a belt or on a strap across the chest. The device may be visible under light clothing, and those wearing a Holter monitor may wish to avoid shirts with a low neckline.

Persons being monitored should not limit normal daily activities, since its purpose is to record how the heart works under various actual conditions over an extended period except showering and swimming.