A Holter monitor is a small, wearable device that continuously records your heart's electrical activity for 24 hours up to 7 days. It is the most accurate way to investigate intermittent palpitations, dizziness or unexplained blackouts. The Cardiology Doctors offer same-week Holter monitoring in central London with consultant-led interpretation.
By recording every heartbeat over an extended period, Holter monitoring captures rhythm disturbances missed by a 10-second resting ECG. It is the test of choice for palpitations and for ruling in or out atrial fibrillation — a major cause of strokes in adults over 60. It also detects ectopic beats (quantifying frequency), supraventricular tachycardia (sudden fast rates that come and go), and heart block or pauses that may explain dizzy spells or blackouts.
Choice depends on symptom frequency. 24-hour Holter: best for daily palpitations or near-constant symptoms. 48-hour Holter: useful when symptoms occur several times a week. 7-day Holter: highest-yield test for occasional palpitations or to confirm or exclude paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Dr Laskar will recommend the most appropriate device at your consultation.
A matchbox-sized device is attached to your chest with three to five adhesive electrodes. You carry on with normal activities, work, exercise and sleep — only the shower is off-limits. A brief symptom diary lets us correlate palpitations with the underlying rhythm. After the recording period you return the device by post or in person, and Dr Laskar personally analyses the trace and produces a written report within a few working days.
Every report is reviewed and signed by Dr Nabila Laskar — a Consultant Cardiologist with specific expertise in cardiac rhythm interpretation. There is no automated-only reporting. We use modern, lightweight recorders that are comfortable to wear, with flexible drop-off and collection at our Marylebone clinic.
You can exercise as normal but you cannot shower or swim while the device is fitted. We recommend a quick wash instead.
Most patients forget they are wearing it after a few hours. The electrodes are designed for skin comfort over several days.
An entirely normal recording is reassuring but does not exclude rare rhythm problems. If symptoms persist, a longer or implantable monitor may be considered.
A detailed consultant-led report is normally available within a few working days of returning the device.
Please see our Prices page for current 24-hour, 48-hour and 7-day Holter fees.