PROCEDURES
HOLTER MONITOR
A Holter monitor, sometimes referred to as ambulatory electrocardiography, is a small portable device that records your heart’s activity over a period of 24 or 48 hours so that your cardiologist can get a comprehensive understanding of your heart’s functioning as you go about your daily activities.
WHY DO I NEED IT?
You may be asked by your cardiologist to wear a Holter monitor if you are suspected of having a slow, fast or irregular (uneven) heartbeat – otherwise known as an arrhythmia. Since an arrhythmia is often intermittent (i.e. it occurs only at times rather than being present at all times), irregularities may not be picked up during a regular electrocardiogram (ECGs or EKG). Thus a portable ECG - a Holter monitor - can be used to evaluate what the particular arrhythmia looks like in an average day - to guide treatment.
If you’re already being treated for heart problems, Dr van Rensburg may suggest a Holter monitor to see if further assessments are needed, if the particular treatment method is working or if a pacemaker or cardioversion procedure is needed to restore a regular heart rhythm.
HOW IS IT DONE?
To make a proper diagnosis and decide on the most suitable treatment, your cardiologist will place painless ECG stickers onto your chest. The Holter monitor is then connected and can be placed in your pocket or in a pouch worn across your shoulder. While in place you can continue with your regular routine at home (no swimming or showering). You may be asked to keep a diary noting your activities for the day and the time, while you wear the monitor.
WHAT ABOUT AFTERWARDS?
After 24 or 48hrs you will bring the device back to Dr van Rensburg’s rooms so that she can evaluate the data taken by the device over that period of time. She can then evaluate whether any arrhythmias occurred and if so, what arrhythmias occurred and how best she can treat them.