Heart health is a big issue facing many Australians, something that technology can help get on top of. There’s every chance that your smartwatch fitted with ECG technology could detect a major heart condition.
Today marks the start of Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week, aimed at highlighting a condition affecting roughly half a million Australians. Typified by irregular heart rhythms, atrial fibrillation can increase your risk of strokes, heart failure, and other heart-related issues. Although you can notice it through heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue, the condition can also be asymptomatic, making it even more important to be vigilant.
Recent advancements in wearable technology allow smartwatches to monitor heart rhythms and potentially detect atrial fibrillation. Many smartwatches now come equipped with electrocardiogram (ECG) capabilities. These devices can record the electrical signals from your heart and potentially alert you to irregular patterns indicative of atrial fibrillation.
Helping detect irregularities
Although not a replacement for a clinical diagnosis, modern smartwatches can certainly help, as explained by Associate Professor Chrishan Nalliah, a clinical academic electrophysiologist with MQ Health Cardiology.
“When it comes to heart health management, people often think of implantable devices such as pacemakers, but wearable devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers, can play a critical role in identifying underlying abnormalities of heart rhythm or other health parameters, which can drastically improve the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation,” said Associate Professor Nalliah.
Wearables with health-tracking features can prompt a discussion with a health professional, which Tanya Hall, founder and CEO of Hearts4heart, believes could help improve diagnosis rates.
“While it’s only an indication, if a wearable device detects an abnormal heartbeat, the user can then visit their GP for a heart check with a stethoscope to determine the reason for the irregularity,” said Hall.
Which smartwatches come with ECG?
Several smartwatch brands support ECG measurements in Australia. There are others that have the technology but not local approval yet, like Garmin’s wearables.
For the models that do support ECG, it’s important to take regular measurements so you have a baseline to start from. Most smartwatches send you alerts upon detecting abnormal results and keep track of readings via a dedicated health app.
Apple Watch
Apple launched its ECG app with the Watch Series 4 model. However, the feature wasn’t immediately available in Australia, pending TGA approval. Now available locally on models including the new Apple Watch Series 10, you can take an ECG at any time by following a few simple steps. It might even help you detect heart conditions like atrial fibrillation.
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Samsung Galaxy Watch
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch series also offers a comprehensive suite of health features, including ECG monitoring. It is compatible with both Android and Apple iOS phones, making it a smart-looking and versatile choice for users who want to keep track of their health but want that traditional watch look.
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Google Pixel Watch
Google also supports ECG measurements via its Pixel Watch range. All models, including the latest Google Pixel Watch 3, support ECG readings and irregular heart rhythm notifications, including in Australia.
Common misconception: smartwatches and heart attacks
It’s important to clarify a common misconception. While smartwatches can help detect atrial fibrillation, they cannot detect or predict a heart attack. A heart attack and atrial fibrillation are two completely different conditions with the former involving blocked blood flow to the heart, while the latter is an electrical issue with the heart’s rhythm.
Always seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a heart attack.
Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Week is a good reminder to get the facts about heart health. We have potentially life-saving technology on our wrists, so it’s worth knowing how to use them.
Smartwatches are valuable tools in the early detection of atrial fibrillation, empowering wearers to take steps in managing their heart health. However, they should be used as part of a broader health strategy in consultation with healthcare professionals.
Stay informed, stay healthy, and make the most of the technology around your wrist.
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