Frequently Asked Questions
Holter Monitor

Why did my doctor order a holter monitor test?

What preparations will I need to make?

How is the test administered?

How long will the procedure last?

What will the recovery be like?

What happens after the test?

Will my insurance cover this?

Who should I contact with questions about this test?

1. Why did my doctor order a holter monitor test?
Your doctor asked you to have a holter monitor test at Advocate Christ Medical Center to determine the presence and severity of disturbance in your heart rhythm. It can detect rhythm changes, abnormal or irregular beats, skipped beats, fast and slow heart function and pacemaker function. The monitor can correlate heart rhythm disturbances with symptoms you may be having, such as dizziness, palpitations or fainting spells.

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2. What preparations will I need to make?
None.

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3. How is the test administered?
The test involves placing on your chest electrocardiogram (EKG) wires attached to a monitor that is about the size of a videotape. This will continuously record every heart beat for a set period of time (usually 24 hours). The information will be transferred to a computer to be analyzed and then reviewed by a cardiologist.You will be asked to keep a diary and record any symptoms you have and what you were doing when they occurred.

Inform the technician if you have a pacemaker.

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4. How long will the procedure last?
24 to 48 hours.

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5. What will the recovery be like?
There is no real recovery period.

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6. What happens after the test?
The test will be analyzed by your cardiologist, and symptoms will be correlated with any disturbances in your heart’s rhythm. Your doctor will then have you schedule a follow-up office visit.

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7. Will my insurance cover this?
Depending on the type of coverage, most commercial insurance carriers will pay the major share of the cost. You should always consult your insurance company to determine proper coverage.

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8. Who should I contact with questions about this test?
Feel free to consult your doctor.

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