Atrial fibrillation: which brands have entered the market to diagnose it?

mercatelnaya aritmiya
Apple beat Fitbit by introducing serious monitoring of the health of its smartwatches for the first time in Watch Series 4. But these are not the only two companies that take health seriously and think about more than just how to burn calories.

Now that heart rate monitors are a mainstay in fitness trackers and smartwatches, manufacturers want to take heart rate tracking even further and use those built-in sensors to figure out how to better take care of your heart. They're looking at how to detect what's called atrial fibrillation.

Read this: Why ECG is a big deal for Apple Watch Series 4!

Tests

Detecting irregular heartbeats is a big improvement over counting steps. The technology that will do this must not make mistakes.

In the case of Fitbit, for example, its research director Subramaniam Venkatraman said the company is closely studying heart health. It uses existing PurePulse optical heart rate sensors to collect data and detect AFib.

The challenge with the study is that using these sensors to detect irregular heartbeats is only reliable if someone is stationary or asleep. This method is commonly used in hospitals and has been for many years.

How to choose?

There are many models of heart rate monitors on the market. Among the range of devices, you need to choose an effective and convenient one that is suitable for taking cardiac indicators in patients with cardiovascular pathologies.

Heart rate monitors must meet the following requirements:

1. Accuracy of measurements. Errors are undesirable, since the doctor prescribes drugs that are aimed at stopping emerging attacks of arrhythmia, and if the device readings are incorrect, it is difficult to choose the right dosage. As already noted, precision instruments are separate. The sensor that records your heart rate is attached to your chest, and the receiver is in your pocket. Taking readings directly from the heart area reduces data distortion.
2. Possibility of setting the minimum and maximum values ​​of pulse and pressure specified by the attending physician. If the device has such a function, it will allow people with heart disease to more easily control their condition. If the sensor shows a transition beyond the permitted limits, the monitor gives a sound signal, which will help to take timely measures to restore the rhythm.
3. Function for detecting temperature, humidity and air pressure. In case of cardiac pathologies, atmospheric changes can lead to heart rhythm disturbances.
4. Calculation of calories burned. This function is necessary for those who decide to take care of their weight.

What gadgets diagnose atrial fibrillation

Most wearable heart rate monitors we've seen so far have focused on the role of heart rate data in fitness, but there's a new generation of devices that keep a close eye on heart health.

Apple Watch Series 4

The loudest device that Afib promises to detect is the Apple Watch Series 4. It has an ECG sensor that, along with the Watch app, provides a 30-second ECG study to check for atrial fibrillation. The watch's ECG feature has been cleared by the FDA to detect irregular heartbeat patterns and is therefore available on US devices.

£399, apple.com | Amazon

Which heart rate monitor is better to choose?

A hand-held heart rate monitor allows you to determine your heart rate.
The device is designed to analyze the heart rate range, control loads and heart function. There is a wide range of devices on the market. Heart rate monitor: general view.

Benefits of a heart rate monitor

Athletes and physically active people need to monitor the functioning of the heart muscle. A heart rate monitor will be a good helper in this.

The device allows you to maintain the required heart rate, find out the number of calories burned and select the appropriate load for training.

The heart rate monitor is used when performing interval and cardiological exercises. The device will come in handy during strength training and daytime activity.

Pros of a heart rate monitor:

• protecting the heart from overload thanks to heart rate control;
• assistance in adjusting the focus of training (endurance or weight loss);
• tracking progress followed by analysis of the load and its impact on the body;
• accurate calculation of calories burned;
• Possibility of use to assess the functioning of the cardiovascular system.

Many exercise machines are equipped with a built-in heart rate monitor. Such devices provide inaccurate information, and to record readings you need to hold on to the handrails of the equipment, which is not always convenient.

Basic functions of the heart rate monitor

Main options:

• monitoring heart rate (heart rate);
• heart rate range adjustment;
• notification of zone change by sound or vibration signal;
• calculation of average and maximum heart rate;
• calorie burn counter;
• timer, stopwatch, time and date.

Some models have additional functionality (pedometer, navigation with GPS, workout memory, alarm clock, synchronization with a smartphone). The price of the device largely depends on its “filling”.

Types of heart rate monitors and their features

Heart rate monitors are conventionally divided into 2 broad categories: chest and wrist options. The first devices provide accurate results and are in demand among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. With the introduction of new technologies, it has become possible to measure heart rate with compact and convenient devices that are fixed on the wrist.

Wrist heart rate monitors.

Heart rate monitor with chest strap for running and strength training

A device of this type is equipped with electrodes and is attached to the chest, transmitting information to a receiver in the form of a watch or through a mobile application.

In the first case, information is processed after receiving the corresponding impulses and displayed on the screen. On the street, such modifications are more convenient because they do not require the use of a smartphone.

There are 2 options for data transmission (via an analog uncoded or digital channel).

Wrist heart rate monitors

The device on the wrist is convenient because the user does not need to wear a chest strap with a sensor. The device resembles a wristwatch and can work in 2 ways. In the first, the pulse is measured during contact between the finger and the sensor.

It is enough to put the device on your hand, touch it and find out the heart rate value. The disadvantages include the inability to control the pulse without contact between the finger and the electrode.

Main uses: tourism, rock climbing, medical prescriptions.

In the second case, heart rate is measured by monitoring the circulatory system. The bracelet is placed on the hand, LEDs scan the skin, and an optical sensor records the narrowing of blood vessels, displaying the value on the screen. The downside is that you need to fasten the strap tightly, which is uncomfortable during exercises.

Fitness bracelets with heart rate monitor and other functions

Trackers (for example, the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 bracelet) are aimed at non-professional athletes. They are suitable if accurate heart rate readings are not required, but there is a desire to control the training process to achieve the desired results. The device is lightweight, compact and has a thin body.

A heart rate monitor is cheaper than its optical counterparts and allows you to track approximate heart rate zones, number of steps, and quality of sleep. Almost every fitness bracelet has a pedometer and a motion sensor. The accuracy of blood pressure measurement is conditional.

Smart watch with pedometer and heart rate monitor on hand

This hand sensor is convenient and does not require additional devices. Smart watches are equipped with a heart rate monitor and a pedometer, suitable for amateur sports and training in fitness rooms, and used by people with cardiovascular diseases. The disadvantage is that they require constant synchronization with a smartphone (Android or iOS).

Watch with step meter.

Compact and accurate finger heart rate monitor

This device calculates heart rate from pulsating blood in the finger. The advantage of the device is that it does not require attachment to the chest or wrist, and is ultra-compact in size.

The device operates on the following principle: information is quickly transmitted to the display, showing the pulse during physical activity. Additional functionality includes an indicator of blood oxygen saturation, air temperature, stopwatch, and clock.

The wireless device is equipped with a fullness regulator, suitable for users of any size.

Arm heart rate monitor or chest sensor, which is better for running training?

Comparative characteristics of both devices:

1. Accuracy of readings. The chest heart rate monitor responds faster to the contraction of the heart muscle, reflecting its work on the monitor. The wrist sensor provides somewhat distorted information, since the information is read after the blood reaches the hand, having a different density. The device does not have time to react to the load in the first seconds of exercise after rest.
2. Ease of use. Chest devices are uncomfortable because... Belt friction causes discomfort, especially in hot weather. This element absorbs the athlete's sweat, acquiring a persistent unpleasant odor. Heart rate monitors worn on the arm do not have all these disadvantages.
3. Additional functionality. The belt device has the option of recording a track, Bluetooth or ANT+ support. Most wrist models do not have such capabilities.
4. Power element. A chest gadget with a belt can function without recharging for several months. Arm modifications require refilling every 6-10 hours.

From the comparative analysis it is clear that for amateur jogging and training runners, a wrist-based device is better suited, despite the errors reported.

How to choose a heart rate monitor: models with GPS and tracking function

Any heart rate monitor is a highly targeted device focused on heart rate control. It allows you to track your pace and adjust the loads used. Budget models are also equipped with a pedometer, clock and stopwatch.

More expensive devices have tracking and GPS functions. Such gadgets are needed by athletes who want to know the speed to which they accelerated during exercise, and also adjust the training based on the maps stored in the device’s memory.

best heart rate monitors on your wrist

The review of wrist-based heart rate monitors presents several popular modifications from trusted manufacturers. Gadgets are in demand on the market and differ in shape, parameters, price and additional functionality. Both professional versions and devices for cardio loads and amateur athletes are indicated.

Honor band 3

Characteristics and functionality declared by the manufacturer:

• tracking calories burned and steps;
• control of sleep phases;
• heart rate measurement in 3 modes (training, current, forced);
• notification of all changes in the course of classes;
• alarm;
• settings for sports (running, swimming);
• monochrome screen (0.91 inches);
• bluetooth 4.2;
• AB 100 mAh;
• dimensions - 10.3/16.5/43 mm;
• weight - 18 g;
• water resistance - up to 50 m.

The device is available in 3 colors, fits perfectly on the hand, there are many adjustment holes on the strap, and the latch has a double configuration.

Honor band 3 bracelet.

Tomtom spark 3 cardio music

This heart rate monitor is suitable not only for runners and swimmers, but also for skiers who don’t mind listening to their favorite music while exercising.

Options:

• measured indicators - number of steps, distance traveled, sleep monitoring, calories burned;
• internal memory - 3 GB;
• headphone jack - A2DP and AVR;
• playable music formats - AAC and MP3;
• weight - 50 g;
• The heart rate monitor with GPS works without recharging for up to 11 hours, while listening to tracks - up to 5.

Depending on the type of sport, the gadget displays preloaded routes, trajectory, and speed.

Heart rate monitor Tomtom spark 3 cardio music.

Garmin vivoactive hr

Among the features of the hybrid smartwatch and fitness bracelet are a color transreflective monitor, GPS and a constantly functioning heart rate sensor. The body of the device is protected from water, and the original software includes several modes (running, cycling, swimming, golf). The functionality of the gadget is wider than that of standard trackers with a pedometer.

Characteristics:

• strap - removable type in 2 sizes;
• Battery life: up to 5 days;
• weight - 47.6 g;
• altimeter, heart rate sensor 4.0;
• protection against water - up to 5 atm.

Garmin vivoactive hr bracelet.

Nokia steel hr

The sports heart rate monitor for the wrist is made in 2 colors (black and white), a couple of sizes in diameter (36 and 40 mm). The smart watch is lightweight; the silicone strap does not cause discomfort when wearing or running.

The device is packed with all sorts of functionality, including a counter for steps and calories burned, sleep monitoring, and 24-hour heart rate measurement. The heart rate sensor works exactly as for wrist modifications.

The design provides a running mode, recording the distance traveled and heart rate zones. The readings are displayed on an electronic monitor.

Nokia steel hr heart rate monitor.

Polar v800 gps

This brand is included in the TOP of the best wrist heart rate monitors. The device is made of metal, the strap is made of rubber, the color range is 3 shades (red, black, blue). The functionality is controlled using 5 buttons.

The number of screens is 8, each can display up to 4 indicators. The device is configured via a computer. The watch notifies you about your heart rate zones, exercise pace, and the end of the interval via a sound signal or vibration.

There is a function that allows you to mark a circle by tapping on the device. On a bicycle, it is better to disable this option to avoid spontaneous activation due to shaking. Additions - an altimeter for measuring height, displaying the inclination angle.

Polar v800 gps bracelet.

Beurer pm25

Functionality:

• heart rate fixation;
• time and date;
• alarm about exceeding training load limits;
• stopwatch;
• adjustment of heart rate zones;
• energy saving;
• backlight;
• class diary.

The wrist heart rate monitor is suitable for running, including CrossFit, telling the athlete when to pick up or slow down.

Beurer pm25 bracelet.

Isport w117

The device is a chest sensor combined with a watch, which displays the necessary information. The results are displayed instantly, although the optics are not precise enough and often lose pulse.

Pros:

• high battery life;
• large informative display;
• heart rate control;
• synchronization
• protection from moisture.

Flaws:

• design;
• English interface;
• failures in the accuracy of the heart rate monitor.

The design of the watch is simple, designed for use during running or cycling training. If you attach the gadget to your shoulder, you can use almost all the functionality, except for the heart rate monitor.

Heart rate monitor Isport w117.

Source: https://tech4sport.ru/gadgeti-dla-sporta/kakoj-pulsometr-luchshe-vybrat

“Smart” tonometers for measuring blood pressure at home

There are several “smart blood pressure monitors” on the market for home use. These devices typically monitor blood pressure levels and allow data to be downloaded automatically with real-time charting for online tracking. They are listed below:

• iHealth BP7 - Wireless Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor: Measures systolic/diastolic pressure, heart rate and pulse wave and creates a chart of the data using the iOS application. The iOS app combines your data with data from other iHealth devices. Thus, you have the opportunity to track your health in one application.
• iHealth BP5 - wireless blood pressure monitor for mounting on the forearm: Measures systolic/diastolic pressure, heart rate and pulse wave and creates a data chart using the iOS application. The iOS app combines your data with data from other iHealth devices. Thus, you have the opportunity to track your health in one application.
• iHealth BP3 Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor: This device plus cuff turns your iOS device into a blood pressure monitoring station of its own. Similar to iHealth products, it measures systolic/diastolic pressure, heart rate and pulse wave values ​​and creates a chart of the data using an iOS application. The iOS app combines your data with data from other iHealth devices. Thus, you have the opportunity to track your health in one application.
• Shoulder Blood Pressure Monitor Additional information: OMRON has developed the thinnest blood pressure monitor on the market
• Withings Smart Blood Pressure Monitor: Measures systolic/diastolic blood pressure and heart rate and creates charts of the data. Compatible with iOS and Android devices.
• If you are interested in traditional blood pressure monitors, you can check out the list offered by various medical associations. In particular, you can look at the reviews of blood pressure monitors offered by the British Hypertension Association. Very often, this Association tests tonometers intended for use at home.
• Ozeri BP01K: CardioTech Pro digital blood pressure monitor to determine heart health and indicate signs of hypertension

Measurement accuracy

Numerous tests show that chest sensors provide more accurate readings that are as close as possible to ECG results, but the error of the optical sensor is minimal and is usually associated with specific situations:

• • During interval exercise, when, due to a sharp change in intensity, the frequency of contraction of the veins changes slightly slower than the speed of heart beats.
• • In cold weather, severe contraction of blood vessels is possible due to low temperature. And if you wear the watch on clothing, the optical sensor will be useless and will not be able to measure heart rate.
• • Measurement errors may be caused by sweat and tattoos on the sensor.

To summarize, we can make general recommendations for choosing a sensor. A chest strap is right for you if:

• • Your training plan includes high-intensity interval training, and it is important for you to monitor your accurate heart rate readings at each time so that you do not exceed the parameters set by your trainer.
• • Are you looking for a budget option with high accuracy results: the chest strap sensor can be synchronized with a mobile phone and with a sports watch.

An optical sensor is right for you if:

• • you want to track your heart rate and activity throughout the day to monitor the functional state of the body,
• • you need a simple tool to monitor your heart rate during workouts that you can't forget at home or put on incorrectly.

Find the right option for you at Runlab, where our running experts will recommend a sports watch based on your training goals and needs.