What is a Holter monitoring test?

A Holter monitoring test or Holter monitor test is a portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device that your doctor may ask you to wear to record your heart’s activity over an extended period. It’s sometimes called an ambulatory ECG.

What does a Holter monitor test show?

The test monitors your heart’s rhythm and can help detect irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia).

How is a Holter monitor test attached?

The device is attached, and detects heart activity, through painless electrodes stuck to your chest and abdomen.

3_Electrode_Holter_Monitor

What is the difference between a Holter monitor test and a standard ECG test?

Unlike a standard ECG test, the Holter monitor provides a continuous recording over many hours that your doctor can review to detect intermittent symptoms throughout the day and night.

A standard ECG usually takes around 5-10 minutes and can only record abnormalities if they occur during that short test time. It is usually done as part of a medical appointment before or after you see the medical practitioner.

A Holter monitoring test allows for a longer test period and therefore greater insight into your heart’s activity during everyday activities and sleep.

How long do you wear a Holter monitoring test for?

Times differ, but your doctor may ask you to wear the device for between 24-48 hours or up to seven days.

Why do I need a Holter monitor test?

Your doctor may order a Holter monitor test if you’re experiencing symptoms that may be associated with your heart rate or rhythm.

Symptoms may include:

  • fainting
  • dizziness
  • shortness of breath
  • chest pain
  • an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
  • or if you have had a stroke or mini stroke.

If you’re already taking heart medication, a Holter monitor test can show your doctor if it’s working.

If you’ve already had a standard ECG, but it didn’t reveal any issues with your heart, your doctor may suggest wearing a Holter monitor to record your heart over a longer period.

What to expect when wearing a Holter monitor

What to expect when wearing a Holter monitor

Holter Monitor

What to expect

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How to prepare for a Holter monitor test

Is the Holter monitor test safe?

The test is non-invasive with minimal risk. However, the sticky electrodes can sometimes cause redness or skin irritation.

What should I bring on the day of the test fitting?

  • Bring a list of your current medications.
  • Wear a two-piece outfit, so it’s easy to fit the Holter monitor to your chest and abdomen.
  • Shower before you arrive and do not wear talc, body lotion or neck chains.

What happens during the fitting?

  • It takes around 20 minutes to fit the device.
  • You will need to undress to the waist. You may be offered a gown for privacy.
  • You may be required to have part of your chest shaved.
  • Electrodes will be placed on your chest and abdomen and then attached to the Holter device.
  • You’ll be shown how to attach the device to your clothes.
  • You will be shown how to reattach electrodes to your skin if they come loose.

What happens after the fitting?

Once you have been fitted with the device you will be able to go home and resume your normal activities. You will be able to drive yourself home.

Your doctor will ask you to record and write down any specific symptoms you experience while wearing the Holter monitor test, such as palpitations, dizziness, chest pain or shortness of breath.

If at any time during your Holter monitor test you are concerned about any symptoms you are having, contact your medical team. In an emergency call triple zero (000).

How restrictive is the device?

Depending on the model, there may be some restrictions when wearing the device. These may include not being able to bathe, shower or swim while wearing the device.

However, you will still be able to do most things while wearing the device such as:

  • Sleeping
  • Exercise
  • Wear a bra
  • Drive
  • Wear deodorant
  • Use your phone
  • Eat and drink.

How do I know if my Holter monitor test is working?

Your Advara HeartCare cardiologist will show you how your Holter monitor works during the fitting, and how to tell if it’s not working correctly. Be sure to call your team at any time during the test period if you’re concerned your Holter monitor is not working.

Does the Holter monitor test turn off automatically?

Your Advara HeartCare technician will turn the test off and remove the device and machine for you at your return appointment. The device stays on the entire time you are wearing it.

How do I remove the Holter monitor test?

You will be asked to return to the clinic for the device to be removed. You should not remove the device yourself unless instructed by your medical team how to do so.

You may be able to remove your Holter monitor test for a shower if wearing the device over a long period. Please discuss this with your doctor during the fitting.

What happens after the Holter monitor test is complete?

One of our cardiologists will review your results and provide a full report back to your referring doctor. Depending on the results, your doctor will discuss the next steps with you.

How accurate is the Holter monitor test?

Holter monitoring tests can give your general practitioner (GP) or cardiologist information to help detect an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia). They can also help determine if any current heart medication is working and if the dose is correct. Inconclusive results may require further tests.

How much will the Holter monitoring test cost?

Costs vary. You may be able to claim all or part of the test costs under Medicare.

Speak to your Advara HeartCare cardiologist or your GP to find out if you are eligible to claim and what fees may apply.

How do I make an appointment with Advara HeartCare?

If you have a referral from your GP you can make an appointment for your Holter monitor test with Advara HeartCare.

With over 65 locations, Advara HeartCare is Australia’s largest cardiology provider with centres in or around most major metropolitan areas. Click below to find a Holter monitor test near Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide today.

Our Locations
Advara HeartCare clinic. Reception waiting area.

This information is of a general nature. If you are concerned about your heart health, discuss this with your local doctor.

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