ECG Tests and Holter Monitoring

Have you been experiencing irregular heartbeats, dizziness, or chest discomfort? These symptoms could be signs of an underlying heart problem. At HealthHub Clinics in Dubai, our Cardiology department offers on-site ECG tests and Holter monitoring to evaluate your heart’s electrical activity quickly and accurately. With fast access to appointments and prompt, reliable results, we make it easier for you to get answers and peace of mind about your heart health.

Accurate Heart Rhythm Testing at HealthHub Clinics

We provide comprehensive heart rhythm testing in Dubai, including on-site resting and stress ECG as well as 24-hour Holter monitoring. All tests are non-invasive and carried out by our experienced cardiologists using modern equipment to ensure accurate results. With our personalized approach to care, you can trust that your heart is in good hands at HealthHub Clinics.

What Is an ECG Test?

An ECG (electrocardiogram) is a quick, painless test that records the electrical signals of your heart. Doctors use it to check for abnormalities in how your heart beats. During an ECG at HealthHub Clinics, a technician will place small adhesive electrodes on your chest (and sometimes your arms and legs). These electrodes connect to an ECG machine that tracks your heart’s electrical activity.

What to expect: A resting ECG takes about 5–10 minutes. You’ll lie still on an exam table while the machine records your heartbeat. There’s no discomfort during the test, as the electrodes only sense your heart’s signals and don’t emit any electricity.

What an ECG detects: An ECG shows your heart rate and whether your heartbeat is regular or irregular. It can detect arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), evidence of heart muscle damage from a prior heart attack, or signs of reduced blood flow to the heart.

Resting ECG vs. Stress ECG

Resting ECG: The standard ECG done while you are relaxed and lying down. It provides a snapshot of your heart’s activity under resting conditions and is often the first step in evaluating symptoms like palpitations or chest pain.
Stress ECG (Exercise Treadmill Test): An ECG recorded while you exercise (usually on a treadmill) to see how your heart performs under physical stress. We monitor your heart rhythm and blood pressure as the treadmill gradually speeds up. This test is especially helpful if you experience chest discomfort or shortness of breath during activity, as it can uncover issues like reduced blood flow to the heart or exercise-induced arrhythmias. The exercise lasts about 10–15 minutes, and our team is present to ensure your safety throughout.

What Is Holter Monitoring?

Holter monitoring is a form of ambulatory ECG – a continuous heart rhythm recording typically over 24 hours while you go about your daily routine. Your doctor may recommend a Holter monitor if you have intermittent symptoms or an arrhythmia that may not show up during a brief ECG exam.

During the Holter test, a technician attaches a few sticky electrodes to your chest and connects them to a small portable recorder that you wear on a strap or clipped to your belt. Then you can return home and continue your normal activities while the monitor records every heartbeat. The only restriction is to avoid bathing or swimming while wearing the monitor (to keep it dry). You may also be asked to note any symptoms in a diary. After 24 hours, you’ll return the device to the clinic so we can analyze the data and prepare your report.

What a Holter monitor detects: A Holter monitor is especially useful for catching heart rhythm issues that a brief ECG might miss. It can identify sporadic arrhythmias (such as episodes of atrial fibrillation, extra beats, or pauses in the heartbeat) and show how your heart rate changes over the course of a day and night. For example, if you have occasional palpitations or dizzy spells, the Holter data will show if an abnormal rhythm occurred at those times, helping our cardiologists pinpoint the cause of your symptoms and plan appropriate treatment.

Symptoms and Conditions for ECG or Holter Testing

Your doctor may recommend an ECG or Holter test to investigate various symptoms and conditions related to heart health. You might need these tests if you experience:

Chest Pain or Pressure: An ECG (at rest or during a stress test) can help determine if chest discomfort is heart-related, such as due to angina or reduced blood flow.
Heart Palpitations or Fluttering: If you feel your heart racing, pounding, or skipping beats, an ECG or Holter can check for arrhythmias causing these sensations.
Dizziness or Fainting (Syncope): Lightheadedness or fainting spells might be due to an irregular heartbeat. A Holter monitor can capture any abnormal rhythm during those episodes.
Shortness of Breath: Unexplained shortness of breath, especially with exertion, may warrant an ECG or stress test to see if a heart condition (like a blocked artery) is the cause.

Known Heart Rhythm Issues: If you have a diagnosed arrhythmia (like atrial fibrillation) or another heart condition, periodic ECGs or Holter monitoring help doctors monitor your situation and guide treatment.

At HealthHub Clinics, we are committed to offering the best cardiac diagnostic services in Dubai. Here’s why patients trust us for ECG tests and Holter monitoring:

Fast Appointments & Quick Results: We offer fast-track appointments for ECGs and Holter monitors, often available same day or next day. Our on-site analysis means you get results quickly – ECG findings are reviewed immediately, and Holter reports are usually ready within a day or two. You won’t be left waiting for answers.
Experienced Cardiologists: Our heart specialists are highly qualified cardiologists with years of experience. They interpret your test results with precision, explain the findings in clear terms, and recommend appropriate next steps for your care.
Modern Equipment: We use state-of-the-art digital ECG machines and comfortable, compact Holter devices for high-quality readings. This advanced technology helps us catch even subtle heart abnormalities, improving the accuracy of our diagnoses.
Personalized, Compassionate Care: We make sure you’re comfortable and informed at every step of your visit. Our team will guide you through the tests, answer your questions, and ease any concerns. If the tests detect an issue, we will tailor a treatment or management plan to your needs and support you through the next steps with a caring approach.

Why Choose HealthHub Clinics for ECG & Holter Monitoring??

Extensive Experience
Advanced Facilities
Affordable premium services
Trusted Al-Futtaim brand

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between an ECG and a Holter monitor?

A: An ECG is a short test that records your heart’s electrical activity at a given moment (for example, during a clinic visit or an exercise stress test). It provides a snapshot of your heart rhythm. A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device that you wear for 24 hours or more to continuously record your heart’s activity as you go about your day. In short, an ECG gives a one-time reading, whereas a Holter monitor gives an extended recording to catch irregularities that may not occur during a brief ECG.

How should I prepare for an ECG or Holter monitoring?

Very little preparation is needed. For a resting ECG, just avoid applying lotion or oil on your skin beforehand, as it can affect the electrode contact. For a stress test, wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and avoid large meals, caffeine or smoking in the few hours before your test. If you’re getting a Holter monitor, it’s best to shower beforehand (since you can’t bathe with the device on) and wear a two-piece outfit for easier electrode placement. Otherwise, you can go about your normal routine while wearing the Holter.

Are ECG and Holter tests safe?

Yes. Both tests are completely safe and non-invasive. The devices only listen to your heart’s electrical signals – they don’t emit any electricity – so you won’t feel anything during an ECG or while wearing the Holter monitor. At most, you might have slight skin irritation where the sticky patches are placed, but this goes away quickly once the electrodes are removed.

How soon will I get the results?

For an ECG, the results are available immediately, and our doctor will discuss them with you right away. For Holter monitoring, once you return the device after the 24-hour recording period, it usually takes a day or two to analyze the data and prepare your report. We will then schedule a follow-up (or call you) to explain the findings as soon as they are ready.