Question 37 of 433
What about atrial fibrillation and my smartwatch?
The short answer
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that becomes more common with age and can cause strokes. Watches are good at spotting it. They are not a diagnosis.
If your watch flags an irregular rhythm, do not panic and do not ignore it. Get a proper recording. What I want you to know is that atrial fibrillation is not random bad luck. The same things that damage arteries drive it: high blood pressure, excess weight, sleep apnea, and alcohol. In studies, patients who lost weight, treated their sleep apnea, and cut back on drinking had far fewer episodes.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
VALIDATED DETECTION / HUMAN TRIALS — Selected devices flag possible AF; ECG confirmation and individual stroke assessment remain necessary.Evidence grade (draft mapping)Grade pendingPart 3, Q37 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.