Holter Monitor & Cardiac Event Monitoring in New Jersey
Extended cardiac rhythm monitoring to detect arrhythmias, palpitations, and syncope — fitted and interpreted by board-certified FACC cardiologists at Cross County Cardiology, NJ.
Holter monitor electrode setup at Cross County Cardiology, NJ
What Is a Holter Monitor?
A Holter monitor is a small, portable device worn on your body that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity (ECG) over 24 to 48 hours — or longer. Unlike a standard in-office EKG that captures only a few seconds of rhythm data, a Holter monitor captures every heartbeat during your normal daily activities, allowing your cardiologist to detect intermittent arrhythmias that might otherwise go undetected.
Types of Cardiac Monitors We Use
24-Hour Holter Monitor — Standard continuous recording for 24 hours. Ideal for patients with frequent daily symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or near-fainting episodes.
48–72 Hour Extended Holter — Extended continuous recording providing greater data capture for patients whose symptoms occur less predictably.
Cardiac Event Monitor (30-Day Monitor) — A wearable monitor worn for up to 30 days that records your rhythm when you press a button upon experiencing symptoms, or automatically when the device detects an abnormal rhythm. Best for infrequent or unpredictable symptoms.
Patch Monitor — A slim, waterproof adhesive patch worn continuously for 7–14 days, offering greater comfort and compliance for extended monitoring.
Why You May Need a Holter Monitor
Your cardiologist may recommend a Holter monitor if you experience any of the following symptoms, particularly if a standard in-office ECG has been inconclusive:
- Heart palpitations or awareness of a racing, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat
- Unexplained dizziness, lightheadedness, or near-fainting (pre-syncope)
- Syncope (fainting) of unclear cause
- Shortness of breath without an obvious cause
- Chest discomfort or pressure that comes and goes
- Known or suspected atrial fibrillation requiring rhythm documentation
- Monitoring the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic medications
- Post-cardiac procedure rhythm surveillance
What to Expect During Your Holter Monitor Appointment
The fitting process is quick and painless. A cardiac technician will clean and prepare small areas of your chest, then apply adhesive electrode patches connected to thin lead wires that attach to the portable recording device. The device itself is small — approximately the size of a deck of cards — and can be clipped to your belt or worn in a provided pouch.
You will be given a symptom diary to note the time and nature of any symptoms you experience during the monitoring period. This diary is critical for correlating your symptoms with the recorded rhythm data. After the monitoring period, you return the device to our office, and your cardiologist reviews the full recording — often thousands of heartbeats — to identify any abnormalities.
Schedule Your Holter Monitor in New Jersey
Cross County Cardiology offers Holter monitoring and cardiac event monitoring at our cardiology offices across northern New Jersey, including Secaucus, Edgewater, Teaneck, Hoboken, and North Bergen. Same-week and next-day appointments are often available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I shower while wearing a Holter monitor?
Standard Holter monitors are not waterproof. You should avoid showering, bathing, or swimming while wearing the device. Patch monitors and some event monitors are waterproof — your cardiologist will advise you based on which device you’re prescribed.
What happens if my Holter monitor detects an abnormal rhythm?
Your cardiologist reviews the full recording after the monitoring period. If a significant arrhythmia is found, they will contact you to discuss findings and treatment options. If you experience a severe emergency during the monitoring period, call 911 immediately.
Will the Holter monitor affect my daily activities?
You should carry on with your normal activities — that is the purpose of the monitor. Avoid X-rays, MRI scans, and high-voltage electrical equipment while wearing the device.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 3–5 business days after you return the device. Your cardiologist will review the full recording and discuss findings with you at a follow-up visit or via phone.
Is the Holter monitor covered by insurance?
Yes, Holter monitoring is covered by most insurance plans when ordered by a physician for a documented cardiac indication. Our staff will verify your benefits prior to fitting.
