Apple Watch Ultra detects sleep apnea in US veteran

David Aladejobi, a 38-year-old US Air Force veteran, used his Apple Watch Ultra to identify a potential case of sleep apnea. Although he initially dismissed the device's notification, he later connected the alert to his frequent morning headaches and snoring.

After sharing a screenshot of the health data from his iPhone with his physician, Aladejobi was referred to a sleep laboratory. The clinical examination confirmed the diagnosis, leading to the prescription of a CPAP machine to maintain open airways during sleep. Medical professionals noted that untreated sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure and other serious health complications.

The Apple Watch utilizes an accelerometer to monitor subtle wrist movements associated with interrupted breathing patterns over a 30-day period. The device is designed to alert users to signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea, though it does not provide a formal medical diagnosis; rather, it prompts users to seek professional medical evaluation.