Holter Monitor

[markymo01]

Holter reveals an average heart rate ranging from 49 to 126 beats per minute.  The underlying rhythm is sinus.  There is minor ectopy with fairly frequent isolated and unifocal PVC's without complex forms.  Only rare isolated PAC's are seen.  There are no runs and no significant bradyarrhythmias or pauses.

My question is:  is this a pretty normal description for a 50 year old male?  Just wondering if I should request and ultra sound, an MRI on my heart to make sure there are no clogs, etc…

Sincerely,

Mark

[markymo01]

Hi Brooke,

I've had heart palpitations since I was 20.  No big deal, have learned to live with them.  HR at 49 was when I was sleeping.  Since last October the heart thingies have been more active and noticeable.  I'm concerned because they have been waking me up the last weeks or so.  My BP is usually around 120/75.  It has come down a lot the last year due to weight loss and exercise.  My diet has improved tremendously!  I used to be on Atenolol and Benazepril.  I am completely drug free, and have been since Jan. 21st of this year.  My body could be healing from all the prescriptions I used to be on?  The heart thing comes and goes no rhyme or reason?

Thanks

Mark

[Brooke_38]

Hello...

I can't really interpret your Holter Report but can say that nothing that is mentioned appears to be worrisome. I would imagine that when your HR was at its lowest (49) it was probably while you were sleeping.

Do you have any risk factors (familial or lifestyle choices) that would put you at an increased risk of heart disease? What was the reason for your Holter? A cardiac cath is the gold standard for determining blockages. I don't think any reputable cardiologist would subject a patient to this invasive procedure unless there were circumstances that warranted it.
Hope this helps you :)