Holter monitoring

The Holter examination is an innovative method for continuous monitoring of the heart’s electrical activity, allowing for more accurate diagnosis of arrhythmias and other abnormalities. This type of ECG examination does not rely solely on short-term measurements taken in a hospital setting but also monitors heart function during the patient’s daily life. During Holter monitoring, the patient can carry out their daily activities while the device continuously records heartbeats.

The duration of the Holter examination typically lasts 24 or 48 hours, but in certain cases, it can be used for up to a week. This longer duration enables specialists to detect arrhythmias that may only occur sporadically, making the examination much more beneficial for patients. The significance of the Holter examination lies in the fact that for patients living with heart diseases, the diagnosis becomes more accurate, as the data collected by the device helps doctors choose the appropriate treatment methods.

Indications for the Holter Examination

Holter monitoring is indicated for various health issues, especially for symptoms that occur intermittently. These include the sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeat, which can be particularly important after a stroke, as well as chest pressure or pain that lasts for a short time and is not always easily localized. Complaints that arise during physical exertion are also noteworthy, as these symptoms may indicate a deterioration in heart condition.

The Holter examination also provides an opportunity for patients with known heart diseases to continuously monitor their condition, and for doctors to check the functioning of implanted devices, such as pacemakers or ICDs. The data obtained during the examination are extremely important for identifying arrhythmias, tracking daily changes in heart rate, and assessing the effectiveness of medication therapy.

Procedure of the Holter ECG Examination

The Holter ECG examination is painless and can be performed relatively quickly, consisting of several steps. The first step involves an assistant attaching adhesive electrodes to the patient’s chest, which are then connected by wires to a small monitor. The patient wears this device attached to their waist or hung around their neck, allowing for continuous recording of heart activity while they can live their daily life as usual.

It is important for the patient to take their medications as directed by their doctor during the examination and to keep a diary of any experienced symptoms, their timing, and daily activities. This diary can be extremely useful for the doctor, as it helps in the more accurate identification of events observed on the ECG recording. Therefore, the patient actively participates in the process during the Holter examination, contributing to the evaluation of the results.

Preparation for the Holter Examination

Preparing for the Holter examination does not require special preparations, but a few simple suggestions can help ensure the success of the examination. For male patients, it is recommended to shave the chest hair, as this promotes better adhesion of the electrodes. Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is also beneficial to avoid discomfort while wearing the device.

It is important to note that the device is not waterproof, so the patient should avoid bathing or showering during the examination period. Additionally, it is advisable to be cautious near devices that operate with strong magnetic fields or radio signals, as these may affect the operation of the Holter monitor. Possible discomforts during the examination may include skin irritation or itching at the site of the electrodes, as well as the device being bothersome to wear at night, but these generally have a minimal impact on the examination.

Evaluation of Results and Success of the Examination

At the end of the Holter examination, the patient returns the device, and its data are evaluated on a computer. The results are typically ready within 1-3 working days, and the treating physician will discuss them in detail with the patient during the next consultation.

Although the Holter examination is generally reliable, there may be instances where no evaluable results are obtained. This could be due to symptoms not occurring during the examination, technical issues with the device, or the patient not wearing the device properly. In such cases, the doctor may order another examination or suggest longer-term monitoring.

The patient’s role in the success of the examination is crucial, so it is advisable to follow medical instructions precisely, maintain the symptom diary, and, if possible, not change their usual lifestyle during the examination. The device should be returned on time to ensure that the evaluation can proceed smoothly and promptly.

Summary

Overall, the Holter examination is an extremely useful tool for identifying arrhythmias. The examination allows patients to discover abnormalities that may not be detected by other methods. The active participation of the patient – wearing the device properly and keeping the symptom diary – is essential for achieving accurate and evaluable results. Thus, Holter monitoring not only aids in diagnosis but also plays an important role in maintaining heart health.