AFIB (atrial fibrillation) is a disease often related to the heart that can cause several complications if it goes unnoticed. Many recent technological gadgets, such as smartwatches, now come with features that claim to detect AFIB. But how accurate is the smartwatch detection? And can a smartwatch detect AFIB?
In this article, I am going to explain what AFIB is, why, and how smartwatches are able to detect it with the help of ECG or PPG technology. Should you trust them?. In addition, I will discuss the major benefits and limitations of focussing on smartwatches for AFIB monitoring and recommend the best ones on the market today.
What is AFIB & Can A Smartwatch Detect AFIB?
AFIB, or atrial fibrillation, is an abnormal heart rhythm that could lead to stroke and even heart failure. It is this condition in which the upper chamber of the heart does not coordinate with the lower chamber. The ECG is not one that can detect AFIB. The PPG technology in smartwatches can also detect AFIB, but they work on different methods, which are given below.
The Role of ECG & PPG in AFIB Detection
ECG:
ECG-enabled smart watches help track heart conditions through the assessment of electrical impulses. A user completes the circuit by tapping a specific area on the watch, thus allowing it to track even the faintest disturbances in heart rhythm, such as AFib. These gadgets have built-in alerts for deviations, and they have also been approved for use, enabling monitoring of patients with heart diseases.
PPG:
PPG technology also detects the irregularities in the heart. Although it is not as accurate as an ECG machine, it works by using light sensors to measure changes in blood volume in the skin. It provides insights into heart health without requiring user interaction.
ECG Vs. PPG
| Technology | Methodology | Accuracy | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECG | Measures electrical activity of the heart | High accuracy (sensitivity ~95%, specificity ~94%) | Manual recording for AFib detection |
| PPG | Monitors blood flow using light sensors | Moderate accuracy | Continuous heart rate monitoring |
A Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up AFIB Detection on Your Smartwatch
If you want to set up AFib detection on your smartwatch, it involves a few simple steps, but these steps might vary a bit with the model and brand of the device. Here are some general guidelines for given models of smartwatches, including the Apple Watch and Fitbit.
Setting Up AFib Detection on Your Smartwatch
For Apple Watch
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your Apple Watch is one of the models that support AFib detection (Series 4 or later), or you can check the user manual.
- Update Software: Make sure your iPhone and Apple Watch are updated to the latest versions of iOS and watchOS.
- Open Health App:
- Launch the Health app on your iPhone.
- Access AFib History:
- Tap on Browse.
- Select Heart.
- Tap on AFib History.
- Set Up AFib History:
- Tap on Set Up and then Get Started.
- Enter your date of birth when prompted.
- Enable Notifications:
- To receive alerts about irregular rhythms, go to the same Heart section in the Health app and then enable Irregular Rhythm Notifications.
- Wear Regularly: If you want to track accurate monitoring, wear your watch at least 12 hours a day, five days a week.
For Fitbit
- Check Device Compatibility: You need to make sure your Fitbit model supports Irregular Rhythm Notifications (e.g., Fitbit Sense, Charge 5).
- Open Fitbit App:
- Launch the Fitbit app on your smartphone.
- Access Health Assessments:
- Tap on the You tab.
- Find the Irregular Rhythm Notifications tile in the Health Assessments section.
- Set Up Notifications:
- Tap on Set Up, then follow the on-screen instructions to enable notifications for irregular heart rhythms.
- Wear Regularly: Ensure you wear your Fitbit consistently, especially during sleep, to gather sufficient data for analysis.
The Pros and Cons of Relying on Smartwatches for AFIB Detection
I have analyzed some pros & cons of using a smartwatch for AFIB detection
Pros
- Easy to wear and check your heart all day long.
- Spots heart problems early so you can consult with a doctor quickly.
- Doesn’t hurt and is simple to use, especially with built-in ECG.
- Provides real-time alerts for irregular heart rhythms.
Cons
- It Might say there’s a problem when there isn’t; it can make you worry for no reason.
- It is not as accurate as professional medical devices.
- Limited to specific smartwatch models with ECG capability.
- It cannot replace a doctor’s diagnosis or in-depth heart analysis.
- It might miss AFIB, which doesn’t happen often or is hard to spot.
Smartwatches vs. Medical Devices: How Reliable is AFIB Detection?
Obviously, there is no comparison between smartwatches & medical devices because medical devices are solely made for a single purpose compared to a smartwatch or any smart device.
What to Do if Your Smartwatch Alerts You to AFIB Symptoms
In the event that your smartwatch notifies you of a possible occurrence of AFib symptoms, I would advise you to take the following measures for your health and safety:
Immediate Actions
- Stay Calm: First, try to be relaxed. Smartwatches might show you wrong information, and one’s anxious state can worsen the symptoms.
- Check for Symptoms: You need to check any physical symptoms you may be experiencing, such as:
- Palpitations (a feeling of fluttering or pounding in the chest)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Record the Alert: Make sure to observe the time and the details of the notification. Several smartwatches keep records of heart rhythm data, which can be helpful for your doctor.
Consult a Healthcare Provider
- Contact Your Doctor: Set up a meeting with your family doctor or any primary care physician within the shortest time possible. They will be able to assess your case in more detail.
- Follow Up with a Specialist: If warranted, your doctor might recommend you visit a cardiologist or an electrophysiologist, a medical professional with a focus on heart rhythm disorders, for advanced assessment.
Diagnostic Testing
- Undergo Testing: Be prepared for diagnostic tests, which may include:
- An electrocardiogram (ECG) to confirm AFib.
- Additional tests, such as a Holter monitor or echocardiogram, assess heart function and rhythm over time.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Adopt Heart-Healthy Habits: Engage in lifestyle changes that promote heart health:
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Exercise regularly (as advised by your doctor).
- Limit alcohol and caffeine intake.
- Manage stress through mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
- Educate Yourself: Learn more about AFib and how it affects your ability to make healthy choices regarding your health care.
If you adhere to these recommendations, you can react properly to your smartwatch alerts about symptoms of AFib and make sure that you get the required treatment.
Smartwatches with AFIB Detection: Top Models to Consider
Many smartwatches come with built-in AFib detection features; therefore, they can also be effective devices in controlling heart health. Some of the best options are listed below:
1. Apple Watch
- Models: Series 4 and later, including Apple Watch SE (without ECG app), Series 5, 6, 7, 8, and Ultra.
- Features:
- FDA-approved for AFib detection.
- Uses photoplethysmography (PPG) and ECG to monitor heart rhythms.
- Provides irregular rhythm notifications and AFib history tracking.
- Accuracy: Approximately 90% accurate in detecting AFib
2. Samsung Galaxy Watch
- Models: Galaxy Watch 3 and Galaxy Watch Active2.
- Features:
- FDA-approved for AFib detection.
- Offers ECG monitoring and irregular heart rhythm alerts.
- Compatibility: Works well with Samsung smartphones but is also compatible with other Android devices
3. Fitbit Sense
- Features:
- Includes an ECG app for on-demand AFib monitoring.
- Provides heart rate variability tracking and notifications for unusual heart patterns.
- Benefits: Allows users to share ECG readings with healthcare providers for better management of their condition
4. Withings ScanWatch
- Features:
- Combines traditional watch design with advanced health monitoring features.
- Offers ECG capabilities and can detect AFib.
- Design: Stylish hybrid smartwatch that appeals to users looking for a classic look
5. Google Pixel Watch
- Features:
- Equipped with an ECG app that allows users to take readings in about 30 seconds.
- It provides notifications for irregular heart rates, aiding in the early detection of AFib.
- Design: Sleek, circular design that combines functionality with style
The Future of AFIB Detection with AI Integration
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) holds a promising future for AFIB detection. The AI component contributes advanced heart data processing capabilities, aiding in the detection of rhythm irregularities with increased precision and speed.
By predicting patient behavior, such systems are capable of generating individual alerts and risk profiles for patients. It is optimistic to note that this technology will facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of such conditions, further improving cardiovascular health management. and when PPG, ECG, and AI will combine, what product will launch you can estimate by yourself.
Conclusion
Smartwatches are a good option for monitoring AFIB; however, there are considerations to note. They have their limitations and offer assistance, not a replacement for professional medical services. Being aware and concerned about one’s heart health is essential for proper AFIB management.