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[bugzz02]

I wrote a week or so ago and questioned about palpations. I stated that I had ekg, holter monitor and echo cardiogram. I was never diagnosed as to having palpations but I dont know what else these "flutters" could be. Anyhow you had suggested a event recorder. What exactly is this and why would this benefit more than the other tests I've had. All my other tests came back okay and I dont think the holter picked up and palpations. I dont remember feeling them while I wore it. Wouldnt the other tests I've had picked up any problems? I'm just really concerned because I'm pregnant and have been feeling this quite a bit, more so than a year ago. I just dont know how to approach my doctor with this being they've already run all those other tests. They look at me like I'm kinda crazy. Thanks

[CCF-M.D.-CRC]

Dear mis,
An 'event recorder' is also called a 'loop recorder' or a "King of Hearts monitor".  It is exactly like a Holter monitor except that instead of recording continously for 24 hours it only records when you press a button on the side of the unit.  Then it records the period for several minutes before you pressed the button and for a short period afterwards.  The advantage of this type of test is that you can have the palpitation anytime, not just during the 24 hours of the Holter monitor test.   It is usually done by the same people who did the Holter monitor.  How important it is for you to get one of these is really up to how you are feeling.  If you are having frequent, symptomatic palpitations then it is probably worthwhile.  If this is something that happens rarely and does not bother you that much it may be something you want to wait on getting.  One last thing - remember you are you own best advocate, so who cares how the doctor looks at you as long as you get the best care and get your symptoms addressed.

[dande4]

Hi:

An event recorder is like a beeper size and shape recorder that you can clip to your pants(just like a beeper) and has two leads(I think that is all there is, that is all that was on mine) which you snap on to electrodes that are on your chest. It is lightweight, can take it off when you shower etc. When you feel an episode of flutters or palpitations you hit the button and it records the episode a minute before you hit the button and I believe for two minutes after you hit it. The recorder constantly takes an ekg but only saves it when you hit the button. When it stops recording you take it off and dial the # of the monitoring co# and you transmit it over to them via the phone and they look at it and will let you know if there is any problem.

I wore it for about 2 months. I have palpitations/flutters that did not show or I did not have when I wore the 24hr holter but this you at least have for 30 days or longer. If these flutters really disturb you I would ask the Dr. about it. It has helped me many times to call the event in and find out that it was o.k. or just a few palpitations and that I am not dying!!

Hope this helps!