Are Holter Monitors available for home users?

[mariop]

I'd like to beef up my meagre set of heart tools.  Basically I have a blood pressure monitor and a stethoscope.  Are there any advanced tools for home use under $500?  Preferably something like a Holter Monitor with computer software.

[Momto3]

Why in the world would you want cardio equipment at home?  That's why we have cardiologists.....

FWIW.....This one is from Medtronic for $3000

ONE (1) Flash Digital or cassette 24 hr. Full Disclosure Recorder.
Flash recorder has 3 channel display, 5 leads, CF card, pouch, belt and manual
Includes software, manual and database management system at no additional cost
Free training and toll free technical suport
Lifetime software warranty, 1 Year recorder warranty, free upgrades
3 Channels includes 5 or 7 patient leads
User Selectable Arrhythmia Variable Settings
Complex classifications: PVC, Couplet, Triplet, Bigeminy, Trigeminy, R on T, SVPB,Bradycardia, Tachycardia and more.
On-Screen Condensed / Zoom View: 1 or 10 min., 2 or 4 sec. Intervals.
Standard Reports to Screen or Printer: Summary of Test with Diagnostics, Event / Episode Reports, Full Disclosure of all ECG

[va_tony]

Wow, you are giving new meaning to the derogotory term "pulse takers" that a certain nurse I know call us.

Anyway, there are some Holters listed on ebay (cheapest $1700)

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-PROSCAN-SEL-HOLTER-MONITOR-ANALYZER-PRINTER_W0QQitemZ300088115311QQcategoryZ31465QQcmdZViewItem

Here's a self-contained simplified event monitor for $785 that looks ideal for home use.

http://www.semedicalsupply.com/biolog_ecg.htm

[mariop]

Nope.  Too expensive for me.

Basic reason is that if I can do my own monitoring, then I can read the print out and tell myself everything is harmless and not to worry about it.  Pretty much the same thing my cardio does.  Of course I would have to include that anxiety is to blame.

I bet if the prices were reasonable you would both get one.

[va_tony]

Yep, you are right. I admit it. I was debating buying that $795 unit.

[Momto3]

I bet if the prices were reasonable you would both get one.

hahahaahah........count me out!  That's what I pay the doctor for. I have had palps for at least 30 years and have no intention of buying a holter monitor.  I couldn't interpret if I did ; )  

[Momto3]

Now, now.....don't be tempted by that monitor : )

If I remember correctly, you mostly deal with a-fib, right?  How's have you been doing?

[CollegeGirl143]

a monitor will probably do more harm than good.. holters and ekg's commonly spit out false positives, unless you know how to interpret the actual strips, its better just to go to your cardiologist

[va_tony]

Hi Connie

I've had a setback with my afib recently --- after controlling my afib for 5 years, my rythmol failed and I have been in continuous afib for the last month. Fortunately, I'm asymptomatic and so the afib doesn;t affect my lifestyle. I'll be scheduling a hospital cardioversion shortly (was holding out hoping for a spontaneous self-conversion) and increasing my rythmol dosage to the max (425 mg twice a day).  I also have a nuclear stress test scheduled this coming Monday.  Other than that I am very healthy.  I reitred recently from my government job and am currently semi retired, working half time as a scientific advisor to a non-profit organization in DC. The rest of the time, my wife and I get to enjoy our 7 grandkids.

Regards

Tony

[Momto3]

I'm so sorry about the afib setback...UGH!  I agree, being asymptomatic can be a blessing, especially with a chronic arrythmia!  I'm just curious, has your doctor ever tried you on flecainideve?  I tried that before the rhythmol, although I preferred the ryhthmol b/c of bothersome side effects.

My dad was in chronic afib and had a pacemaker put in about 8 years ago.  Last year, he had it "upgraded" to an ICD.  He never even notices the afib...I know several people that never feel it, and there are others who are so aware.  Wonder why that is....hmmm

A cardioversion sounds like a good next in line option.  Hopefully, that will jump start you back into NSR.  Good lukc with the cardioversion and the upcoming stress test.  Monday's my dad's birthday, that'll be a good day for a stress test : 0

CONGRATULATIONS on your retirement!!  Isn't semi-retirement great? After all those years of hitting the pavement running, it's time for some R&R and some fun with all those grandkids!!I Hope you and your wife are enjoying your new found freedom!!

I'm up for my semi-annual check up and echo in May.  Funny, I used to go in without giving it a second thought.  But, these days I tend to get a bit more anxious over the echos and stress echos....

Take care and keep us posted on the stress test.  Wishing you a great outcome!  And, NO holter monitors!

connie







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