Apple Watch users will soon have the chance to monitor their heart rhythm with the new Breathe Flow health test. This customizable app measures heart rate and detects atrial fibrillation, the only arrhythmia that Apple Watches can detect. Learn more about Breathe Flow in this article.
Breathe Flow is a new Apple Watch health test
Breathe Flow is a new health test on the Apple Watch that can help you gauge your breathing. It works by monitoring your heart rate and sending you an alert whenever you're not breathing. The device will also log your heart rate data. The data is derived from an algorithm that uses your heart rate to calculate your blood oxygen saturation. A healthy level is between 95% and 100%, while a low level should be treated by a doctor. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that anyone with a blood oxygen saturation level below 88% should visit their doctor. If it's under 92%, you should head to the emergency room. There are several conditions that can affect your blood oxygen saturation level.
The Breathe Flow health test is integrated into the Apple Watch's Health Mate app. The app also allows you to see your ECG on the Apple Watch. The ECG recording is most accurate when you sit near a table. You should hold your elbows on the table to stabilize your breathing. Moreover, you should allow your breathing to calm down before the test to avoid a bad recording. Once the test is complete, you can download and analyze your data by tapping on the Breathe Flow home screen.
It measures heart rate
A new health test available on the Apple Watch can help you monitor your heart rate while you're walking or running. Apple is also adding an electrocardiogram function to the Apple Watch Series 5 which provides a more comprehensive picture of heart rates. The FDA-certified heart rate feature is live in the US and is rolling out to other countries.
The Apple Watch has a built-in electrical heart sensor in its Digital Crown. By placing your finger on the Digital Crown, the device can record the electrical impulses coming from your chest and display them in the Heart app. These readings are accurate and much more detailed than an ECG obtained in a hospital.
It detects atrial fibrillation - the only arrhythmia that Apple Watches can detect
Currently, the only arrhythmias that Apple Watches can detect are atrial fibrillation and ventricular fibrillation. Both of these conditions are caused by a lack of blood flow and increase a person's risk of cardiovascular disease. Apple Watches will periodically analyze heart rhythms and record electrocardiograms. However, this new feature does have its drawbacks.
Although the Apple Watch is capable of detecting atrial fibrillation, it is important to note that false positives can happen. According to a recent industry sponsored study, only one-third of people who received an Apple Watch irregular pulse notification actually had atrial fibrillation. That means that Apple Watches should be used as an additional tool to check for atrial fibrillation in people who already have it.