THE BEAT GOES ON Can Your Smartwatch Detect An Irregular Heartbeat?

From tracking exercise and activity to sleep habits, smartwatch technology accelerates each year. One of the latest additions to wearable health devices is smartwatches with electrocardiogram (ECG) capability, which reportedly can detect an irregular heartbeat — an often-dangerous medical condition that can lead to heart attack or stroke.

It’s easy to believe that a smartwatch can help improve your health. But can it warn you of a heart condition? The answer is less science fiction than you may think. “Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is one of the most prevalent types of heart arrhythmia or irregular heart rhythm,” said Dr. Adi Lador, an electrophysiologist at Houston Methodist DeBakey Cardiology Associates. “Smartwatches with ECG capability can help screen for AFib.”

HOW DOES AN ECG HELP DETECT AFIB?

“An ECG measures the rate at which your heart beats and tells you if that rhythm is regular or irregular,” said Lador. “Ths may assist us in early detection of AFib and help prevent strokes.” Historically, ECGs have been performed in a doctor’s office or with a portable device at home.

An ECG may be recommended if you’ve had heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, or if you have a high risk of or family history of heart disease.

IS MY WATCH SMART ENOUGH TO DETECT AFIB?

ECGs in smartwatches flash LEDs against your skin to detect blood flw and measure heart rate. Your watch takes these measurements and sends you an alert if it detects an irregular rhythm.

“B ecause this method of collecting information differs from conventional ECGs, some people can’t believe it is accurate,” explained Lador. “The devices I’ve seen, though, are relatively precise. Please pay attention if you receive an alert when wearing one of these watches.”

An alert does not always mean you have AFib. False positives can occur, so it’s important that you have a doctor review the data.

“O verall, the ability of a smartwatch to detect AFib has the potential to improve early diagnosis and management of the condition, especially if you don’t have any symptoms,” said Lador.

A SMARTWATCH CAN’T DO EVERYTHING

A smartwatch with ECG is an added layer of monitoring, but it can’t replace a healthy lifestyle and regular medical care.

Even if you’re using a smartwatch, you’ll want to manage your condition through regular check-ups with your cardiologist. “Treatment usually involves taking blood thinners and other medications to control your heart rhythm or to reduce the risk of stroke,” explained Lador.

He althy lifestyle behaviors, such as exercise, good sleep habits and avoiding excessive alcohol use are equally important. •org/

If you have questions about AFib or how a smartwatch may help you manage your condition, visit houstonmethodist.org/debakey or call Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center at 713.DEBAKEY (332.2539) to schedule an appointment.