Why is this procedure done?
Your heart has an electrical system that controls each heartbeat. The signal starts at the top of the heart and moves to the bottom. This signal tells your heart to squeeze and pump blood. The signal repeats with each heartbeat. Sometimes, the signal is not normal. Then, your heart may not beat normally and you may have a heart problem. ‚
To look at your hearts electrical activity over time, your doctor wants you to wear a heart monitor. Thin wires go from the monitor to small sticky patches on your chest. The monitor picks up your heartbeat and records it. This test helps your doctor learn about your heart and any problems you may have. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Shower or bathe before the test. You may not be able to do so when you have the monitor attached to your chest. Some people may need to have their chest hair cut to make the patches stick on the chest.
- Your doctor will talk with you about the test. Be sure to tell the doctor:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- If you have an allergy to adhesive tape.
What happens during the procedure?
Sticky patches are placed on your chest. Wires are connected to the patches and to the monitor that you will carry in a pouch. The monitor will run for 24 to 48 hours or longer to record your heartbeat. You can do your normal activities with this monitor on, but you must keep the monitor and patches dry. You will need to keep a record of what you do and if you have any signs, such as chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or any unusual feelings. ‚
Your doctor will talk to you about what to do when expected signs happen during the test. Your doctor or a trained technician will help you learn about the monitor. They will teach you how to connect the monitor and how to take it off after the test. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
You do not have to stay in the hospital. After the test, return the monitor as directed. A doctor, most often a heart specialist, will look at the recording and send a report to your doctor. Your doctor will talk with you about the test results. ‚
What care is needed at home?
The test is very safe. You may do your normal activities after the test. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
This would be based on the test results. Talk to your doctor. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
Activate the emergency medical system right away if you have signs of a heart attack. Call 911 in the United States or Canada. The sooner treatment begins, the better your chances for recovery. Call for emergency help right away if you have: ‚
- Signs of heart attack:
- Chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Fast heartbeat
- Feeling dizzy
Where can I learn more?
American Heart Association ‚
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Arrhythmia/SymptomsDiagnosisMonitoringofArrhythmia/Common-Tests-for-Arrhythmia_UCM_301988_Article.jsp#.Tt7TZ1v3RQI ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚