Patients can have AFib for months or even years without knowing it, putting them into a significant risk of stroke or more serious complications. In the past, the only way for patients to discover their AFib status was by chance during a regular physical examination. But now, new wearable tech has been developed that can make checking for heart problems as simple as checking your watch. Below are a few wearable technologies that can be used to detect AFib.
KardiaBand
The KardiaBand is the world’s first medical-grade 30-second EKG watch. Made for Apple Watch, this program makes it simple to take better control of your cardiac health. KardiaBand will analyze your heart rate to detect atrial fibrillation within 30 seconds, as well as share a monthly report with your heart doctor if you wish. This program constantly monitors your heart rhythm, and when it sees something untoward, it signals you to take an EKG reading. The KardiaBand is paired with the Apple Watch and iPhone.
Zio XT Patch
The Zio XT wireless patch monitors EKG readings through the skin, which allows it to detect signs of arrhythmia or AFib. It adheres to the skin, and the patient wears it at all times, allowing for instant diagnosis in case of heart problems. Because the patch can be worn 24/7, even during sleep, exercise, and showering, it provides a much more comprehensive report of the state of the patient’s heart.
Apple Watch Series 4
The next generation of Apple Watch is faster and thinner than previous models, but for heart patients, it has new uses that can improve their health. Apple Watches have always had a heart rate monitor, but it’s only been a basic monitor before. This new version uses the monitoring technology to perform an electrocardiogram (EKG) and detect atrial fibrillation. Users simply open the app and touch their finger to the digital crown, and the Watch uses electrodes to perform the EKG.
For people who wear smartwatches or fitness trackers, the idea of using wearable tech to detect AFib is the next natural step in the evolution of design. While being aware of your heart health and wearing devices to track it can be helpful, you cannot rely completely on this tech. Even the most advanced technologies are far from perfect at detecting heart problems. At best, they’re a supplement to regular visits with your cardiac physician.
Heart Rhythm Consultants, P.A.
If you or a loved one are living with a heart rhythm disorder such as atrial fibrillation, contact Heart Rhythm Consultants, P.A. Dr. Dilip Mathew is Board Certified in Cardiology & Cardiac Electrophysiology and has been serving patients in Sarasota and surrounding cities including Venice, Tampa, and Sun City Center for over a decade.