ECG Holter

The ECG Holter is a simple, non-invasive test that helps detect cardiac abnormalities occurring in your daily life. Ideal for identifying the causes of palpitations, fainting spells, or shortness of breath, this device continuously records your heart activity while you go about your normal routine.

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What is an ECG Holter?

The standard electrocardiogram (ECG) is a short recording performed at rest, most often in a doctor’s office. It provides an immediate view of the heart’s electrical activity but only detects abnormalities present at the exact moment of the test.

The ECG Holter, on the other hand, records your heart rhythm continuously for 24 to 72 hours in your everyday environment. It is particularly useful for detecting transient abnormalities related to exercise, stress, or sleep.

Finally, the implantable Holter (or implantable event recorder) is a miniaturized device placed under the skin, allowing long-term monitoring over several months to several years. It is recommended when symptoms are too infrequent to be captured by a standard Holter.

It is important to note that if your symptoms occur very occasionally (less than once a month), a standard ECG Holter may not be sufficient. In this case, your doctor may recommend a more suitable solution, such as an implantable Holter or a connected telemonitoring system.

How does the test take place?

The placement of the ECG Holter is simple, quick, and completely painless. Recording can last from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the medical indication.

Adhesive electrodes are placed on your chest, with possible local preparation (shaving if necessary) to ensure good adhesion.
They are connected to a small recording device that you wear discreetly on a belt or shoulder strap.
You return home and go about your usual activities during the recording period, avoiding getting the device wet (showers and baths are prohibited).
You will be asked to note your symptoms and activities in a diary so they can be correlated with the recordings.
After the recording period, you return to the center to have the device removed.

The data is then analyzed by our rhythmology specialists to identify any cardiac abnormalities. During the test, it is recommended to wear loose clothing to avoid disturbing the electrodes. You can sleep normally: the device is silent and causes no discomfort. Moderate physical activity is allowed, except for water sports or exercises causing excessive sweating. If in doubt, do not hesitate to ask your doctor.

In which cases is an ECG Holter recommended?

The ECG Holter is prescribed to analyze heart rhythm over an extended period in the context of unexplained symptoms or suspected conditions. Here are the main indications:

Assess intermittent symptoms (palpitations, dizziness, fainting spells, chest pain)

When these symptoms are too brief or unpredictable to be captured during a standard electrocardiogram, a Holter allows observation of the heart rhythm in daily life and identification of potential arrhythmias.

Detect and quantify extrasystoles

The ECG Holter can precisely measure the number, frequency, and type of extrasystoles (atrial or ventricular), which is essential information for deciding on treatment or enhanced monitoring.

Screen for atrial fibrillation after a stroke

In a patient who has had an unexplained stroke, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation may be the cause. The Holter extends monitoring time and increases the likelihood of detecting it.

Monitor the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic treatment

The Holter helps evaluate the real impact of a treatment on the patient’s heart rhythm in their everyday environment, particularly after starting or adjusting medication.

Assess pacemaker function

It can verify stimulation frequency, the quality of the paced rhythm, and the absence of arrhythmias not detected by the device itself.

Special Holters for complex cases

When symptoms are very rare or widely spaced in time, alternative longer-term devices may be recommended:

Implantable Holter

Small chip inserted under the skin, such as the Link™ by Medtronic®
Automatic recording in case of rhythm abnormalities
Extended monitoring over several months to several years
Indicated for infrequent but potentially serious symptoms (syncope, bradycardia, paroxysmal rhythm disorders)

Connected systems

Smartphone applications (e.g., Kardia™ by AliveCor®)
Smartwatches with integrated ECG function
Allow the patient to start an ECG recording at the exact moment symptoms occur
Useful as a complement, but do not replace continuous Holter monitoring when medically indicated

Named after Norman Holter, the American scientist who invented it, the ECG Holter has become an indispensable tool in modern cardiology. Simple, non-invasive, and rich in information, it often allows for an accurate diagnosis of symptoms that are difficult to capture during standard examinations.

At the Rythmopôle Center, our specialists have access to all types of Holters and will recommend the solution best suited to your situation. Don’t wait to consult if you experience intermittent cardiac symptoms.

Questions fréquentes

Can I take a shower with an ECG Holter?

Can I sleep with an ECG Holter?

Can I play sports with an ECG Holter?

What should I do if an electrode comes off?

Is the test painful?

Can the ECG Holter miss very rare abnormalities?

Is the ECG Holter covered by insurance?

What is the difference between an ECG Holter and a smartwatch?

A smartwatch can record a spot ECG (often limited to 30 seconds) upon manual activation. The ECG Holter, on the other hand, records continuously for 24 to 72 hours without interruption, making it possible to detect silent abnormalities or those not perceived by the patient.

Monitor and test your heart

The ECG Holter continuously records your heart activity for 24 to 48 hours, enabling the detection of rhythm disorders occurring in your daily life. Painless and non-invasive, this test is invaluable for investigating intermittent palpitations, fainting spells, or chest pain. The rhythmologists at Rythmopôle carefully analyze these recordings to identify any abnormalities and recommend appropriate treatment. Schedule an appointment to benefit from this essential diagnostic test in cardiology.

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