What is it?

An event monitor records the same information as an electrocardiogram, ECG, but for extended periods of time. It is a portal device that attaches to your chest to record your heart’s electrical activity. The information collected by your event monitor is immediately transmitted to our providers, allowing them to analyze your heart’s electrical activity while having symptoms.

Why we do it?

Event monitors may be ordered for patients experiencing infrequent symptoms, or none at all for that matter. Unlike holter monitors, which constantly record your heart’s electrical signals for between 24 and 48 hours, event monitors are typically worn for about a month. They are only activated manually by the user or automatically when abnormal hearth rhythms are detected.

Event monitors come in two types: symptom event monitors and memory looping monitors. A symptom event monitor records data about your heart’s electrical signal for a few minutes from the moment it is activated. A memory looping monitor does the same, with the added benefit of recording your heart’s signals moments before and after activation as well.

When is it ordered?

Your healthcare provider may order an event monitor based on your medical history, even if your EKG seems normal. Abnormal hearth rhythms can occur infrequently and EKGs are unlikely to pick up these signals. Often times, event monitors are ordered to give us a more comprehensive look at how your heart is functioning when you are experiencing temporary symptoms. The event monitor will help your provider determine, if any, what type of abnormal rhythms are detected.

You may be ordered an event monitor if your heartbeat is irregular, abnormally slow, or abnormally fast. If you are being treated for these fluctuations in your heartbeat already, then the event monitor will help determine how well these interventions are working. Event monitors are ordered for patients exhibiting temporary symptoms such palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.

How should you prepare?

No special preparations are needed for an event monitor.

How long does the test last?

An Event Monitor can be worn for up to 30 days.