Not every fainting spell can be linked to low blood pressure. Sometimes, there’s an underlying heart condition at play which can only be noted through remote monitoring. This is why cardiologists use a loop recorder. But what exactly is a loop recorder, and how does it sense the motions of your heart?
In this blog, we’ve discussed everything you need to know about a loop recorder and more.
What Is A Loop Recorder?
A loop recorder is a special EKG monitoring device planted underneath your chest’s skin. It’s used to detect underlying heart conditions that might not show up through regular testing.
When inserted, a loop recorder monitors the rhythm of your heart and can last for up to three years. This is why a loop recorder is also known as an insertable cardiac monitor.
Since the job of a loop recorder is to carefully study the irregularities, beats, and rhythm of your heart, it also has the ability to take snapshots. This helps to differentiate between the severity of slow and fast heart rates.
Why Would I Need A Loop Recorder?
Loop recorders are typically used for patients prone to fainting or having constant heart palpitations. It’s ideal in cases where the previous testing has come up short.
For instance, in most cases, having frequent fainting spells is directly linked to low blood pressure. However, if you constantly find yourself passing out, it could have a very negative impact on your overall health. To understand why this happens, a cardiologist might suggest getting other tests like an electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, exercise stress test, echocardiogram, etc.
If none of these are able to discern the root cause, a loop recorder surgery would be the next best step. After wearing it for a set amount of time, it will monitor and record your heart rate every time it spikes or shoots down.
How Long Does A Loop Recorder Stay In?
Since a loop recorder has to be implanted inside your skin, it can stay in for quite a long while. Once placed, it doesn’t budge from its position. Not to mention, depending on the severity of your condition, the cardiologist can have the loop recorder in your chest for up to three whole years. This helps with remote monitoring and understanding the major irregularities of your heart.
Is Loop Recorder Same As Pacemaker?
Many people get confused between a loop recorder and a pacemaker. Are they the same, or are they different? Well, considering how both devices are used to record the electrical activity of your heart, it can be concluded they’re somewhat similar.
However, to say they have the same purpose is incorrect. This is because a pacemaker has the ability to monitor the ups and downs of your heart. It can even regulate the heart rate if it spirals out of control.
On the other hand, a loop recorder has no such special purpose. It is only used to monitor and detect serious irregularities.
Having Heart Problems?
If you’ve been noticing an odd pattern in your heart rate or find yourself slipping out of consciousness, contact Octagos Health at (281) 769-8733 to schedule an appointment today. Whether it’s a pacemaker or a loop recorder, our cardiologists will do the best they can to offer you their best service.
For more information, you can drop by our clinic at 13325 Hargrave Rd Suite 281, Houston, TX 77070. We’re located on the first floor of the Hargrave Plaza.