![]() There are various technologies used in wearable devices. The advantage of an Apple Watch or a KardiaMobile monitor is that the patient owns it, so they can monitor for any length of time to detect arrhythmia.” “Historically, our options have been to have patients wear prescription devices that capture episodes over a time span of 24 hours, two weeks, or 30 days. “Wearable devices are particularly helpful for people who have infrequent episodes of arrhythmia,” Dr. Tom McElderry, MD, an electrophysiologist with the UAB Cardiovascular Institute, describes the benefits of this new technology. With wearable devices being produced as consumer products, however, tracking irregular heart rhythms outside the clinic has become even easier. Since arrhythmia can come and go, remote monitoring plays an important role in diagnosis. ![]() For that reason, doctors would prescribe a traditional Holter monitor (a small battery-operated device with leads that attach to the chest) or other remote rhythm-monitoring device to track results over a specific period of time. But, like the difficulty in getting your car engine’s knocking sound to happen while in the mechanic shop, it’s hard have an irregular heartbeat coincide with a visit to the clinic. Until recently, anyone who experienced a variation in heart rhythm (arrhythmia) normally would see a doctor for evaluation. Commercially available heart monitors may provide early detection of irregularities, but experts say the devices should be used in partnership with a doctor. Thanks to advances in wearable health-tracking devices, people can monitor their heart rhythms much easier now.
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