What Is A Holter Monitor?
A Holter monitor is a type of continuous electrocardiogram that 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 Holter monitor test is required to detect conditions that reduce after a while. Conditions such as; fatigue, dizziness, palpitations, etc. cannot be detected and a regular electrocardiogram or ECG cannot be used to determine if the person is experiencing these conditions.
A Holter monitor is a device that continuously monitors the heart’s conditions. This helps monitor the heart for longer periods, and it can also detect whether a patient is already on medications by reading their heart’s conditions. ..
What Is the Procedure?
A Holter monitor test is ordered 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.
A small device that contains several leads or wires that are connected to a monitor is used to test the patient’s health. 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 so that accurate results can be obtained.
If you experience any problems with 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?
It is recommended to keep the monitor as dry as possible and avoid activities that may result in the monitor becoming wet.
-Be sure to keep your phone locked when not in use. -Make sure your phone is charged and has a valid warranty. -Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for emergencies.
If you are taking a blood pressure reading, be aware of the potential for electric fields and magnetic fields to 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, visiting the concerned medical expert, and getting the Holter monitor removed. ..
The tests can help you determine if the medications you are taking are working or not, and whether the dosage should be increased or decreased. Understanding the results of the test from a doctor 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 are commonly found at medical centres, and can be ordered through cardiologists. Some places where a Holter monitor test can be done include: ..
South Baldwin Regional Medical Centre, Foley, is the only hospital in the area with a heart attack program.
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.
Medical centres in the United States charge different prices for a Holter monitor test, depending on where they are located. You can find out the price range for a Holter monitor test by contacting different medical centres. ..
Conclusion:
The Holter monitor test is a continuous reading of the heart rate and its rhythm that can help detect different heart conditions. A Holter monitor test can cost from $200 to $400 at different medical centres around the US.
A) There are a number of alternatives to Holter monitor, including wearable monitors that track heart rate and other health metrics, as well as home health aides who can provide care for people with chronic conditions.
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, which is comparatively easier to wear and less troublesome. ..
A) The Holter monitor test is not painful. ..
The Holter monitor is not particularly painful, but the adhesive used to stick it to the skin can be irritating.
