If you suffer from heart arrhythmia, you’ve probably heard of a Holter monitor. Thanks to the technological advancements of today’s time, wearing a heart monitor can help a doctor out big time. Since it measures your heart’s activity while you sleep, a Holter monitor is crucial when identifying a serious cardiovascular disorder.
It’s a useful gadget that aids in understanding one’s heart condition in depth. But is wearing a heart monitor for 2 whole weeks normal? Or does that signal something is wrong? To find out, keep on reading this blog.
What is a Holter Monitor?
A Holter monitor is a small device strapped to your chest. It’s used to record the progression of heartbeats throughout the time a person has it taped on. This means that a Holter monitor works continuously, noting down the electrical activities of your heart.
The reason cardiologists suggest a heart monitor is because it offers the same results as an ECG, all the while reducing overall costs. The only difference is that it’s portable and can be used to notice the alterations during one’s sleep cycle. Not to mention, since heart monitors are adhesive and pain-free, you don’t even feel anything!
Is It Normal To Wear A Heart Monitor 2 Weeks?
Typically, cardiologists request their patients to wear a Holter monitor for 1 or 2 days. This allows them to access 24 hours’ worth of uninterrupted data. However, it’s not uncommon for doctors to ask for a 14-day report either. This means that you would have to wear a heart monitor for 2 whole weeks, which is completely normal too. So much so that it’s known as the 14-day Holter Monitor Test.
According to researchers, wearing a heart monitor for 2 weeks or 14 days can help collect vital information. The data is so distinguished that it can capture various types of arrhythmias, strokes, and the like. This includes intermittent atrial fibrillation.
Thus, according to severity, the doctor then immediately goes on to treat the patient accordingly.
What Can You Not Do While Wearing A Heart Monitor?
When you have a Holter monitor stuck to your chest, there are certain rules and regulations you need to follow. It’s important to know what these restrictions are so you can stay on track. Here are some of the activities that are usually prohibited while one is wearing a heart monitor.
- DON’T get too close to high-voltage or high-powered areas.
- DON’T go near water. Avoid taking a shower, swimming, or any water-based activities.
- DON’T let any magnet near you, or it could interfere with the overall results.
- DON’T use a lot of electronics. Steer clear from microwaves, metal detectors, electric toothbrushes, etc.
- DON’T put your cellphone, laptop, smartwatch, and the like near the Holter Monitor. Keep them at least 6 inches away.
Closing Word
To conclude, wearing a heart monitor for 2 weeks is completely normal. It’s mainly up to your doctor and how long they want to measure your heart’s activity. This doesn’t mean something is wrong with you, nor does it mean you’re in danger. But if you’re looking to upgrade your heart monitoring device, contact Octagos Health at (281) 769-8733 today. You can also visit our clinic at 13325 Hargrave Rd Suite 281, Houston, TX 77070. We’re located on the first floor of the Hargrave Plaza.