What does a Holter monitor measure?

A Holter monitor is a specific type of portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device that continuously records the heart's electrical activity over an extended period, typically 24 to 48 hours. This monitoring period allows healthcare providers to assess the heart rhythm and identify any irregularities that may not be captured during a standard ECG performed in a clinical setting, which takes only a brief snapshot of heart activity.

The primary purpose of a Holter monitor is to detect arrhythmias, evaluate the effectiveness of medications, or investigate symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain. By providing a continuous recording, the Holter monitor can capture transient episodes of abnormal heart rhythms, enabling more comprehensive patient assessments and tailored treatment plans.