The Holter monitor is a portable electrocardiogram (EKG) that records the electrical activity of your heart for up to 48 hours. Dr. Raveen R. Arora, MD, FACC, in Anaheim, California, provides comprehensive cardiology care using modern technology, including Holter monitor testing, to help him accurately diagnose his patients. Dr. Arora and his dedicated staff take a proactive and patient-centered approach to care. Call the office today to schedule a consultation.

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What is a Holter monitor?

A Holter monitor is a portable electrocardiogram (EKG). It’s a medical device that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity over 24-48 hours.

Your heart’s electrical activity determines the rhythm of your heartbeat and the movement of blood through each chamber of your heart.

The Holter monitor tracks and records the electrical activity, showing how fast your heart beats, your heartbeat’s rhythm, and the strength and timing of the electrical impulses. Any abnormalities in your heart’s electrical activity can indicate heart problems.

I had an EKG. Why do I need Holter monitor testing?

A traditional in-office EKG is one of the simplest and safest heart tests. But it can’t provide answers that explain your concerning symptoms. Dr. Arora is an experienced board-certified cardiologist who uses modern technology to identify the early signs of heart disease.

If you notice concerning symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath and the in-office EKG fails to provide conclusive data, he’ll recommend Holter monitor testing.

You start the test at the office. Dr. Arora and his staff place electrodes on your chest, which attach to a small device you wear around your waist or over your shoulder like a bag.

Dr. Arora asks you to keep a symptom diary when wearing the Holter monitor, marking down the date and time of various activities and when you have concerning symptoms.

What can I do during a Holter monitor test?

Dr. Arora provides specific instructions on what activities you can and can’t do during your Holter monitor test. The electrodes must always remain attached to your skin, so you can’t bathe during the test.

You should be able to resume most of your usual activities while wearing the Holter monitor. Dr. Arora might request you do aerobic exercise during the test to see how your heart works when pumping harder.

What happens after a Holter monitor test?

You return to Dr. Arora’s office at the end of the Holter monitor test to return the equipment. Dr. Arora reviews the recorded data and schedules a follow-up appointment to go over the results.

Call the office of Dr. Raveen R. Arora, MD, FACC, today to schedule your cardiology consultation.