Apple’s Watch Series 4 and later are equipped with ECG sensors. It helps in detecting atrial fibrillation (AFib) which is a chronic condition of irregular heart rhythm. Now users of the Apple Watch 4 and later in India can track AFib history. The feature depends on ECG and is also the first of its kind on a wearable device in India. Read on to know more about it below.

AFib history now available for Apple Watch users in India

The AFib history enables users to track the frequency of their heart rhythm showing signs of atrial fibrillation. It is only available on Apple Watch 4 and newer versions with WatchOS 9. The feature is incredibly helpful for individuals already diagnosed with AFib as it allows them to track the amount of time their heart shows signs of AFib and manage important lifestyle factors. We have already come across multiple instances of the Apple Watch saving users’ lives by detecting irregular heartbeats on time.

Atrial fibrillation causes the heart to beat faster. The symptoms are shortness of breath, palpitations, chest pain, dizziness, and more. These require lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, weight loss, and more. The new AFib History feature on the Apple Watch lets users track the time their heart is in AFib. It gives a weekly AFib burden estimate and it can be managed by factors like sleep, exercise minutes, alcohol consumption, and mindful minutes. Users can also view their history and compare it with life factors in the Health app on their iPhones.

To set up an AFib history, a doctor’s diagnosis is important. Users must report their symptoms to a doctor who will then direct them to a cardiologist specializing in arrhythmias. Additionally, the watch should be worn 12 hours a day for 5 days a week with heart rate and wrist detection enabled. Follow the steps below to set up AFib history.

  • Open the Health app on the iPhone
  • Tap on the Browse tab in the bottom right and scroll to Heart
  • Scroll down and select AF History
  • Tap on Get Started.
  • Fill in your date of birth and tap Yes to confirm AFib diagnosis by a doctor
  • Tap on Continue, and you will be shown the details of AFib History, life factors, and results.
  • Finish the setup by tapping on Done.

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