Holter Monitor - Test, Procedure & Cost

A Holter Monitor is a continuous test that monitors your heart’s activity, particularly heart rate and rhythm in a non-invasive manner for 24 hours continuously. When ECG or EKG is insufficient in providing enough details about your heart’s health and problems, the holter monitor test is conducted.

Holter monitor tests are generally used after a patient has encountered heart attack as it helps in the identification of prognosis. The test is capable of detecting episodic ischemic attacks, which can be caused due to coronary artery blockages. Thereby aids in the primary diagnosis of the heart’s condition.

A normal Holter monitor report will show no changes or deviations in the activity of the heart, confirming normal results. It majorly helps in monitoring arrhythmias that occasionally persist with no evident discomfort or symptoms.

The Holter monitor is a heart device that consists of electrodes that are pasted on your body for a long time which may cause blistering or skin irritation. There may be other risks depending on your specific health condition. After a thorough evaluation of your health and condition, your doctor can determine other possible concerns and effects of wearing the monitor.

You should take care not to contaminate the device with water as the water can damage a Holter monitor. You should avoid water-based activities such as swimming, showering, or bathing for the period until you're wearing a Holter monitor. There is an advantage with non wired Holter monitor, as you can detach the device and perform swimming, bathing, or showering as usual.  Your healthcare center usually guides you on how to disconnect and reconnect the sensors and the monitor.

Yes, You can get a free consultation with Dr. Ravin Sharma (MBBS, MD in Radiology) who is available at our center with Mob. no- +919212125996 and availability 24*7*365 days.

The test is also known as the 24-hour test as it requires the wearing of a Holter monitor which is a wearable small device. This device records your heart’s rhythm continuously for 12-40 hours.

A study conducted in atrial fibrillation patients showed an accuracy of 89.7% in its detection through the Holter monitor. Whereas for OSA patients sensitivity for screening was found to be 90.0%, and the specificity 82.6%.