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Smartwatch Detects Irregular Heartbeat, Saves Life
21 May
Summary
- Smartwatch alerted user to an irregular heart rhythm requiring medical attention.
- Doctors used the watch data and their own readings to diagnose the condition.
- Early detection allowed for immediate medical intervention by hospital staff.
Rich Dyer, co-founder of Skiddle, experienced a potentially life-threatening health event when his smartwatch detected an irregular heart rhythm. The Apple Watch alerted him to Atrial Fibrillation (AF) notifications, which he initially overlooked. After feeling unwell and recording high blood pressure readings, Dyer was taken to Lancaster Royal Infirmary.
At the hospital, medical staff reviewed Dyer's watch data alongside their own ECG readings. They determined his heartbeats were erratic and sedated him to restart his heart using a defibrillator. Dyer credits the smartwatch with "essentially saving my life" due to the timely detection of AF, emphasizing that spotting the condition within 24 hours allows for immediate action.
Dyer is now awaiting an appointment with a cardiologist and is recovering. He expressed gratitude to his wife for her support, Lancaster Royal Infirmary for their care, and Apple for the life-saving information provided by his watch. The experience has reinforced his commitment to keeping his device charged.
