Symptoms such as palpitation, dizziness or blackouts may occur intermittently and without warning. A 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) can evaluate heart rhythm at a given time but prolonged continuous heart rhythm monitoring may be required to identify episodic problems such as arrhythmia. Ambulatory ECG monitoring is sometimes referred to as a Holter or patch ECG monitor. It can be carried out continuously for 24, 48, 72 hours or up to 7 days. In addition, the device can be activated to store a patient symptom event simply by pressing a button on the monitor.
This test involves placing a painless wireless ECG monitor to the chest wall. You will need to keep the monitor dry however are able to continue with normal daily activities and are asked to complete a symptom diary to aid diagnosis.
Once an Ambulatory ECG monitor is completed and returned, the acquired ECG data are analysed for any evidence of arrhythmia. If confirmed, this may lead to lifestyle advice, prescribed medication, or a recommendation to undergo invasive procedures such as pacemaker/implantable defibrillator insertion or catheter ablation. We can perform a wireless ambulatory ECG monitor after a consultation with a specialist or separately by self-referral.