Three Benefits of Smart Wearables in Industrial Workplaces
Smartwatches detect irregular rhythms in real time: Apple Watches and similar devices use advanced sensors to monitor heart rate and rhythm. Some models offer electrocardiogram (ECG) functionality that can identify irregular patterns, including signs of atrial fibrillation (AFib) linked to stroke, heart failure and other serious and costly complications.
After receiving a watch notification, some people have discovered undiagnosed heart issues, prompting timely clinical evaluation and treatment, according to Augustus Mealor, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist with Cone Health HeartCare.
Early diagnosis opens the door to effective treatment options: When AFib is detected early, patients can benefit from a range of treatments. Catheter ablation is now the preferred first-line treatment for many patients with persistent and intermittent AFiB. When ongoing monitoring is necessary, implantable loop recorders are beneficial.
Wearable devices can support long-term heart and vascular health: Ongoing use of heart-monitoring smartwatches and similar devices empowers people to stay informed and proactive about their health. Continuous tracking and alerts can help patients and physicians spot issues early, including occasional AFiB episodes, improving long-term outcomes.
“As consumer wearables continue to evolve, their role in cardiovascular prevention and intervention can allow for earlier detection, monitoring and treatment,” says Dr. Mealor. “They are helping us reach patients earlier, when treatment is most effective.”
To learn more about smart watches for heart health monitoring, check out Cone Health’s Smart About Watches video.
To inquire about partnering with Cone Health Employer Health & Wellness Solutions to support heart health, contact Jacqueline Heyward at (336) 586-3972.
