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Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Raghuram A Krishnan, Senior Consultant,  Cardiology,  Baby Memorial Hospitals-Kozhikode

Holter monitoring is a painless, non-invasive test that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity (ECG) for 24–72 hours or longer. It helps doctors detect irregular and abnormal heart rhythms and other hidden heart conditions that may not appear during a short, routine ECG at the hospital.

What is Holter monitoring?

Holter monitoring involves wearing a small, portable device that records your heartbeats continuously. Electrodes are attached to your chest and connected to the monitor, which you carry in a pocket or wear around the neck/waist.

In addition, there are second generation device that use a small adhesive patch that provide continues , extended ambulatory ECG monitoring

Why is a Holter monitor used?

Doctors recommend Holter monitoring to check for:

  • Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
  • Unexplained dizziness, fainting, or palpitations
  • Silent heart rhythm disturbances after a heart attack
  • Effectiveness of medications or pacemakers
  • Risk evaluation before certain treatments or surgeries
How long do you need to wear a Holter monitor?

Most patients wear it for 24–72 hours, but in some cases, extended Holter monitors may be used for up to 7–14 days to capture infrequent rhythm disturbances.

Is Holter monitoring painful or uncomfortable?

No. The test is completely painless. You may feel mild skin irritation from the electrodes, but otherwise, you can continue normal daily activities. Bathing, swimming, or showering should be avoided during the test.

How do I prepare for Holter monitoring?
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
  • Avoid applying creams, lotions, or oils to the chest before electrode placement
  • Maintain a diary of symptoms (palpitations, dizziness, chest pain) and activities during the monitoring period for accurate diagnosis
What happens after the Holter test?

Once the monitoring is complete, the device is returned, and the recordings are analyzed by a cardiologist. The results help guide diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm problems.

What conditions can Holter monitoring detect?

It can detect:

  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)
  • Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
  • Ventricular arrhythmias
  • Heart pauses or conduction blocks

These findings help doctors decide if medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures are needed.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you are experiencing palpitations, dizziness, or unexplained fainting, the Cardiology Department at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) offers advanced Holter monitoring and comprehensive heart rhythm evaluation.

👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH for expert cardiac care and accurate diagnosis.

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