Cardiac event monitors are devices used to detect and record abnormal heart rhythms. They are used to diagnose and monitor heart conditions such as arrhythmias, palpitations, and other heart-related issues. In this article, we will discuss what a cardiac event monitor is, the types of cardiac event monitors, when they are used, reasons to use a cardiac event monitor, the differences between a cardiac event monitor and a Holter monitor, who prescribes a cardiac event monitor, how they work, what to expect on the day you get a cardiac event monitor, what to expect when using a cardiac event monitor, things that may keep the sensors from communicating with the cardiac event monitor, what to expect after using a cardiac event monitor, the risks of a cardiac event monitor, the type of results you get and what they mean, when you should know the results of a cardiac event monitor, and when you should call your doctor.
What is a Cardiac Event Monitor?
A cardiac event monitor is a device used to detect and record abnormal heart rhythms. It is a small, portable device that is worn on the body and records the heart’s electrical activity. The device is usually worn for a period of time, usually up to a month, and is used to diagnose and monitor heart conditions such as arrhythmias, palpitations, and other heart-related issues.
Types of Cardiac Event Monitors
There are two types of cardiac event monitors: looping event monitors and transtelephonic event monitors. Looping event monitors are worn continuously and record the heart’s electrical activity for a period of time. Transtelephonic event monitors are worn intermittently and record the heart’s electrical activity when the patient experiences symptoms.
When is a Cardiac Event Monitor Used?
A cardiac event monitor is used to diagnose and monitor heart conditions such as arrhythmias, palpitations, and other heart-related issues. It is typically used when a patient has experienced symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations, but the cause of the symptoms cannot be determined with a standard electrocardiogram (ECG).
Reasons to Use a Cardiac Event Monitor
There are several reasons why a doctor may prescribe a cardiac event monitor. These include:
- To diagnose a heart condition such as arrhythmia or palpitations
- To monitor a patient’s heart rate and rhythm over a period of time
- To detect changes in the heart’s electrical activity
- To detect changes in the heart’s rate or rhythm
- To detect changes in the heart’s blood pressure
Cardiac Event Monitor vs. Holter Monitor
A cardiac event monitor and a Holter monitor are both used to monitor a patient’s heart rate and rhythm. However, there are some key differences between the two. A cardiac event monitor is worn intermittently and records the heart’s electrical activity when the patient experiences symptoms. A Holter monitor is worn continuously and records the heart’s electrical activity for a period of time.
Who Prescribes a Cardiac Event Monitor?
A cardiac event monitor is typically prescribed by a cardiologist or other healthcare professional. The doctor will discuss the patient’s symptoms and medical history and determine if a cardiac event monitor is necessary.
How Does a Cardiac Event Monitor Work?
A cardiac event monitor is a small, portable device that is worn on the body and records the heart’s electrical activity. The device is usually worn for a period of time, usually up to a month, and is used to diagnose and monitor heart conditions such as arrhythmias, palpitations, and other heart-related issues.
What to Expect on the Day You Get a Cardiac Event Monitor
On the day you get a cardiac event monitor, you will meet with a healthcare professional who will explain how to use the device and answer any questions you may have. The healthcare professional will also attach the device to your body and show you how to use it.
What to Expect When Using a Cardiac Event Monitor
When using a cardiac event monitor, you should expect to wear the device for a period of time, usually up to a month. During this time, you should keep a diary of any symptoms you experience and any activities you do. You should also expect to be contacted by the healthcare professional if any abnormal heart rhythms are detected.
Things That May Keep the Sensors from Communicating with the Cardiac Event Monitor
There are several things that may keep the sensors from communicating with the cardiac event monitor. These include:
- Interference from other electronic devices
- Movement of the patient
- Incorrect placement of the sensors
- Incorrect use of the device
- Damage to the device
What Should I Expect After Using a Cardiac Event Monitor?
After using a cardiac event monitor, you should expect to receive a report from the healthcare professional. The report will include the results of the monitoring and any abnormal heart rhythms that were detected.
What are the Risks of a Cardiac Event Monitor?
The risks of a cardiac event monitor are minimal. The device is non-invasive and does not cause any pain or discomfort. However, there is a small risk of skin irritation or infection from the adhesive used to attach the device to the body.
What Type of Results Do You Get and What Do the Results Mean?
The results of a cardiac event monitor will depend on the type of device used and the type of heart condition being monitored. The results may include a report of any abnormal heart rhythms that were detected, as well as any changes in the heart’s rate or rhythm.
When Should I Know the Results of a Cardiac Event Monitor?
The results of a cardiac event monitor will typically be available within a few days to a few weeks. The healthcare professional will contact you with the results.
When Should I Call My Doctor?
If you experience any symptoms while using a cardiac event monitor, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or palpitations, you should contact your doctor immediately.
References
- American Heart Association. (2020). Cardiac Event Monitors. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/diagnosing-arrhythmias/cardiac-event-monitors
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Cardiac Event Monitors. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cardiac-event-monitor/about/pac-20384790
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). Cardiac Event Monitors. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/cardiaceventmonitors.html
Keywords: cardiac event monitor, arrhythmia, palpitations, Holter monitor, heart rate, heart rhythm, ECG