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Wearables and smartwatches aid in detecting atrial fibrillation
Smartwatches and other wearable devices can assist in the early diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. In Germany, over 1.6 million people are affected by this condition, which can occur intermittently or permanently.
Medical experts, including cardiologist Prof. Dr. Peter Radke of the German Heart Foundation, warn that nearly half of all patients experience no symptoms, making early detection vital to prevent life-threatening complications such as stroke and heart failure. Atrial fibrillation is responsible for approximately 20 to 30 percent of ischemic strokes.
Wearable devices use infrared light to measure blood flow fluctuations and calculate pulse waves, and some can record a single-channel ECG by measuring electrical impulses. To ensure reliable measurements, experts recommend that CE-marked devices fit snugly, approximately one finger-width above the wrist bone. Regular pulse monitoring is particularly advised for individuals over 65 or those with high blood pressure.
Entities
German Heart Foundation · Germany · Peter Radke · Schön Klinik Neustadt
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Regular pulse monitoring is recommended for people over 65 or those with high blood pressure. www.kurierverlag.de · www.wz.de
- [● 2 SOURCES] Some wearables can record a 1-channel ECG to provide heart rhythm information. www.kurierverlag.de · www.wz.de
- [● 2 SOURCES] Wearables use infrared light to measure pulse waves via blood volume fluctuations. www.kurierverlag.de · www.wz.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Nearly half of all patients with atrial fibrillation show no symptoms. www.deutschesgesundheitsportal.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Atrial fibrillation is responsible for 20 to 30 percent of ischemic strokes. www.deutschesgesundheitsportal.de
- [● 2 SOURCES] For reliable results, CE-marked devices should be worn a finger-width above the wrist bone. www.kurierverlag.de · www.wz.de
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Over 1.6 million people in Germany are affected by atrial fibrillation. www.deutschesgesundheitsportal.de