Electrocardiogram (ECG) and Cardiac Monitor

ECGs evaluate the heart's electrical activity throughout the cardiac cycle. ECGs provide some basic information about the heart’s structure. Heart rhythm monitors, or cardiac monitors, are compact portable devices that are worn to monitor the heart's electrical activity for a prolonged period of time. These monitors screen for potentially abnormal heart rhythm, or arrhythmias. Most of these monitors are wireless, which minimize hindrance and allow for more mobility of everyday activities.

ECG and Cardiac Monitor Q & A 

What is an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

ECG is a tool frequently used by physicians to screen for heart diseases. ECGs evaluate the heart's electrical activity throughout the cardiac cycle. In addition to the electrical activity, an ECG also provides important information about the heart’s structure and function. An ECG is easy and fast to perform, and it is available in most medical offices.

What is a Holter monitor and cardiac event monitor?

Holter monitors and cardiac event monitors are compact portable devices that are worn to measure the heart's electrical activities, heart rate and rhythm. The monitors can be worn between 24 hours to 30 days. These monitors provide information on potentially abnormal heart rhythm or arrhythmias. Unlike other heart rate / rhythm monitoring systems, i.e. FitBit, iWatch, these monitors provide more accurate data or tracings for analysis. Most of these monitors are wireless, which minimize hindrance and allow for more mobility of everyday activities. The cardiologist will recommend the appropriate monitor based on cardiac evaluation to capture the desired information.

What kind of information do Holter or cardiac monitors generate?

Young patients with chest pain, palpitation or syncope can have undiagnosed heart rhythm abnormalities or arrhythmias that places patients at risk of sudden cardiac events. These monitors can evaluate several aspects of the heart rhythm and heart rate trends at the time of a patient's symptoms, which can help to diagnose potential arrhythmias and provide important information to risk stratify conditions.