What is a ECG Ambulatory Holter Monitoring?

ECG Ambulatory Holter Monitoring is undertaken when your cardiologist wishes to monitor the electrical activity of your heart over a longer period than the 10-second electrocardiogram (ECG) test.

Many heart conditions are only noticeable during certain activities and this is why your cardiologist will request you to wear a monitor for a set length of time as you go about your normal routine. You will also need to keep a diary during the period of the monitoring as this will provide the contextual information required by your consultant. This should include all activities, including walking and resting, visiting the toilet, taking medication, anxiety and stress, and the times of going to bed and rising in the morning.

To begin the monitoring, electrodes will be attached to your chest in the clinic and wires attached to the monitor. The device can be attached to a belt or strap for ease of use. After the period of monitoring has finished, you'll attend clinic again to have the electrodes removed or you can remove them yourself. If you choose the latter, then you'll need to drop the monitor and your diary off at the clinic.

Once the results and your diary have been analysed, you will be contacted to discuss the outcome and further management.