So what’s a Holter monitor?

DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 76-year-old man who has just had a EGD/colonoscopy. During the procedure something happened and I was awakened in the middle of it. It seems that my heart either stopped or slowed way down. I did not have any residual effects from this but my doctor would like me to wear a Holter monitor. Can you tell me what a Holter monitor is and how and why it is used?

DEAR READER: An EGD is an esophagogastroduodenoscopy or upper endoscopy, a test that examines the lining of the esophagus, stomach and a small portion of the small intestine. It is performed with a small camera inserted into the throat that will allow your physician to evaluate possible abnormalities.
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