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Have you just been told by your cardiologist that you need an ECG Holter test?
You know you're going to have to abide by certain constraints for a while, including a dress code. 🤯
And you probably have many other questions on your mind...
No need to panic! Don't worry! We're here to help you demystify the whole thing.
While you may find that taking this Holter exam seems complex at first glance, it will be our pleasure to make it simple to make your experience as enjoyable as possible 🙂
If you're currently reading this article, it's probably because you've got a cardiologist's appointment and still have no idea what to wear.
It's easy, just read on for the answers to your questions!
What to expect when it comes to Holter ECG? 🫀
So now let's try to answer your many questions about the Holter test. You're definitely not alone in asking these questions!
What is a cardiac Holter?
First of all, let's start with the basics!
When we tell you that you'll need a Holter test, what exactly do we mean?
The Holter is simply a test that records information about your cardiovascular health, such as your heart rate and rhythm, over a long period of time.
How long does a Holter test take?
Your heart is examined over a minimum period of 24 to 48 hours.
Indeed, we agree with you, it can seem like a very long time. However, keep in mind that it's only temporary - we know you'll get there! 🤩
How can we retrieve this data?
How is registration achieved? So here's a question many people are asking!
Well, you'll see that it's very simple! At your appointment, the cardiologist will place several electrodes on your chest.
The electrodes are very small metal discs that will capture your pulse and heart rate. Impressive, isn't it? 😇
The data is then recorded using a small ECG recording device, also known as a Holter monitor.
Once the data has been collected, the computer will be able to analyze it all and draw a conclusion about your heart health.
And these data will be analyzed by our cardiologists at the Laval Cardiovascular Evaluation Center !
Are data collection instruments cumbersome?
Although the instrument may seem cumbersome, the examination is not supposed to restrict you in your everyday activities!
What's more, with the evolution of technology, we can see a downward trend in the size of our devices!
A bit like we've seen with the size of smartphones and laptops lately! 📲
Although your new friend the Holter monitor will follow you for a whole day or more, it's important that you continue to pay attention to your daily activities so that the results of the recordings are faithful to your habits.
He'll be there, but pretend he's not! 😉
So there's no need to cancel your Wednesday night garage league or miss the premiere of the movie you've been waiting so long to see! Hooray!
Why have a Holter ECG test?
On your first visit to the cardiologist, you probably went there because you noticed an abnormality in your state of health, which can result in :
- Heart palpitations
- Discomfort and dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Syncope
The appearance of these symptoms could be a sign of heart problems. It's very important to identify them early on, to keep them under control!
Alternatively, a Holter test may be necessary to analyze the effectiveness of a medical treatment.
Your cardiovascular health is our priority!
It's very important to pay attention to the signs that our body is sending us! So you're sure to make the right decision by consulting one of our specialists.
But don't be afraid! If you keep imagining different scenarios in your head, you risk creating more fear than you need.
The examination prescribed by your cardiologist is to make sure that your healthy heart !
What to wear for a Holter test at the Cardiovascular Evaluation Center
To ensure that you have the best possible experience with the Holter ECG examination, we're going to give you our top tips to apply as a cardiology specialist!
We know it can be stressful for some...
When you arrive at our clinics for the installation of the equipment, since the examination lasts several hours, we recommend that you don't be afraid to get comfortable and put on your soft clothes!
Take advantage of it, you finally have a justified opportunity to do so! 😂
It would be a shame if you felt uncomfortable during your exam...
What to wear as a sweater
Now it's time to put away your chic evening wear!
That's right, it's time to get out that big, loose knit you've never had a chance to wear! 😁
Indeed, loose-fitting sweaters are ideal for you, as they allow you to camouflage the many wires and electrodes hidden underneath.
They'll also give you greater range of motion, so they won't get in the way of your daily activities.
What's more, since there will be a lot of electrodes on your chest, we recommend that you don't wear a low-cut sweater, as they may be visible.
What bra to wear
Are you a woman accustomed to wearing an underwired bra in everyday life?
Unfortunately, we have to tell you that you'll have to do without it for the duration of the exam.
Indeed, the metal rings that support your chest and the pressure they exert on your bust could prove very uncomfortable and interfere with your activities.
Why is this so? The reason is simple: the electrodes are mainly placed here. 🥲
What pants to wear
As for pants, you'll probably be happy to know that there are no constraints. In other words, carte blanche! 😉
Since the electrodes are placed on the upper body, there are no major constraints to comply with.
However, you might enjoy wearing pants that include a pocket. I'll tell you why!
As already mentioned, this heart examination requires the use of a Holter monitor, which records your data.
So it could be very useful to have a pocket to put the device in question inside!
Are there any restrictions on accessories?
You may be surprised to learn that certain accessories can be very useful for your exam!
If you're a belt regular, this is perfect! 🥳
The belt is a very practical alternative to the trouser pocket. You can hang your small recording device on it.
What's more, fanny packs can also be a great help in dragging your little recording device wherever you go, without being too bulky.
That's it! Now you're ready for your next appointment.
We hope that our advice has been of great use to you, and that you'll feel more confident going forward!
Are you in the Laval area and interested in a Holter test? Book an appointment with us online!
Sources :
Holter recording or event monitoring | Heart and Stroke Foundation (coeuretavc.ca)
Cardiac Holter: fitting, examination, how to sleep with it? (journaldesfemmes.fr)
