The Results?
The ultrasound images of your heart are reviewed and interpreted by one of our physicians, and the results are compiled into a written report which is sent to your referring physician. Information gained from this test helps your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that is best for you.
ECG Holter & Event Monitoring
Definition
A Holter monitor is a continuous recording of your ECG, usually for 24 hours, while you go about your usual daily activities. It is very helpful to diagnose abnormal heart rhythms. The Holter monitor itself is a small portable digital recorder, clipped to your waistband or belt. Several electrodes (small sticky patches) are placed on your chest and connected by wires to the recorder.
Purpose
To detect abnormal heart rhythms that may not be seen on a standard ECG.
To assess recurring symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or palpitations.
To evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, such as medications or pacemakers, that help control abnormal heart rhythms.
Before The Test
Wear a loose fitting blouse or shirt, with the buttons in the front.
Do not use lotions or bath oil on your skin which might prevent the electrodes from staying on your skin for 24 hours.
There are no dietary restrictions.
Ask your physician if you are to take your medication as ordered.
During The Test
Several areas on your chest will be cleansed with alcohol and an abrasive pad, to ensure good electrode contact. Men may need to have areas of their chest shaved.
Please inform the medical assistant if you are allergic to cloth or paper tape. This is used to help secure the electrodes on your skin.
The electrodes are connected by wires to the recorder. The medical assistant will check the system to make sure it is working properly.
You can do anything you would normally do, except take a bath or shower while the monitor is on. Do not get the electrodes, wires, or recorder wet.
The medical assistant will show you the button on the recorder to press if you have a symptom that you want your physician to especially note.
When you press this button, it marks the tracing for the doctor. This helps the doctor correlate your symptoms with your ECG tracings.
Try to sleep on your back, with the recorder positioned at your side so that the electrodes are not pulled off.
You will keep a diary to record your activities or any symptoms you experience, and the time at which the symptoms occurred. The diary is very important, because it enables the doctor to correlate your activities and symptoms with the ECG tracing. PLEASE REMEMBER TO BRING THE DIARY BACK WHEN YOU RETURN THE RECORDER!
After The Test
Once you return the monitor, the recording is analyzed by computer, and scanned by a technician. The report is printed for your doctor to review. The information gained will help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for you.
A full report will be sent to your referring physician.
