Event Monitoring Specialist

What is event monitoring?

Event monitoring refers to wearing a small device that records your heart’s electrical activity when you have symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, a change in your heart rate, or a feeling like your heart is pounding or skipping a beat. 

You wear the monitor throughout the day and may need to keep using it for a few days, a month, or longer.

While this monitor captures the event by recording your heartbeat only when you have symptoms, another type of monitor, called a Holter monitor, continuously records your heart rhythm as long as you wear it.

When would I need event monitoring?

You wear an event monitor when your symptoms suggest you have an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that didn’t show up in the electrocardiogram (EKG) you had in the office. When your provider does an EKG in the office, it shows your heart’s activity for one brief period.

Some abnormal heart rhythms happen temporarily or infrequently and may not occur during an in-office EKG. Wearing an event monitor throughout the day captures arrhythmias that didn’t appear in the office.

How does event monitoring work?

Each type of event monitoring device works a little differently. You may have one of the following:

Memory loop monitor

For this type of event monitor, you place self-adhesive sensors on your chest, connect them to the monitor with wires, and wear the recording device around your neck or waist.

When you have symptoms, you press a button, and the device records your EKG, capturing information from just before, during, and after your symptoms.

Symptom event monitor

A symptom event monitor consists of one device that contains the sensors and recorder. As a result, you don’t need to worry about electrodes or wires.

Symptom event monitors come in several types. You wear one type on your wrist, while others are handheld devices that you place against your chest to record electrical activity.

Loop recorder implant

Your provider implants a small loop recorder under the skin of your chest, where it collects information about your heart rhythm for several years if needed. The device automatically records information when it detects a change in your heart rhythm. However, you may be able to activate it when you notice symptoms.

Cardiac Care Consultants may recommend this type of event recorder when you have recurrent, unexplained palpitations or fainting.

If you experience heart palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Call Cardiac Care Consultants, or book an appointment online today