Holter Monitor

Overview

A Holter monitor is a small portable electrocardiograph that records your heart's electrical activity during your normal daily routine. By monitoring your heart's performance over a 24-hour period, a Holter monitor can reveal arrhythmias (irregular heart beats) and other heart problems that arise only in certain situations such as emotional stress, sex, eating, or sleeping. You will be asked to keep a detailed journal of your activities during the test to help your cardiologist interpret the results.

Before the Test

Please pre-register for your appointment by calling 978-937-6429
Monday - Friday, 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. or anytime online at Express Registration .
An Appointment Reminder with specific instructions for your exam will be mailed to you.
Please keep the written order from your physician to bring to the exam.
Obtain copies of any stress tests or EKGs to bring to the exam.
Tell your physician about any medications you are taking.
Be sure to inform your doctor if your are taking sildenafil citrate (Viagra) and have taken a dose in the past 24 hours (If nitroglycerin is given to relieve chest in a patient taking Viagra it can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.)

During the Test

Do not shower or bathe during the 24-hour test period.
Do not wear any metal jewelry or clothing with zippers or any other metal parts as these might interfere with the results.
Be sure to record your symptoms accurately and in detail.