What is ECG and why is it important?

The ECG (electrocardiogram) measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect irregularities in the heart rhythm. Traditionally, ECG examinations have only been available in hospitals and health centers, but now you can do a basic ECG measurement anytime, anywhere.

A smartwatch with an ECG can help detect:

• Atrial fibrillation — the most common form of heart rhythm disorder
• Irregular heart rhythm — both too fast and too slow heart rate
• Symptoms that may require medical follow-up — such as palpitations or fainting

Advantages of a smart watch with ECG

1. Early detection of heart problems

Many heart rhythm disorders occur sporadically and can be difficult to catch during a routine doctor's visit. With a smartwatch, you can take an ECG when you feel symptoms and save the result to show your doctor.

2. Continuous monitoring

In addition to the ECG function, most smartwatches continuously measure your resting heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and can alert you to irregularities. This gives a more complete picture of your heart health over time.

3. Reduced anxiety and increased security

For people with known heart disease, or those concerned about their heart health, the ability to take a quick ECG can provide peace of mind -- or clear indications of when it's time to seek care.

4. Practical documentation

The ECG results are saved in an app where you can follow trends over time and easily share the data with your doctor. This provides valuable information in follow-up treatments or to assess the progression of a condition.

5. Motivation for healthier habits

Seeing their health data daily motivates many to better exercise habits, better sleep and reduced stress -- all factors that benefit heart health.

Who should consider a smartwatch with ECG?

A smartwatch with ECG function can be especially valuable for:

• People over 50 years of age — when the risk of heart rhythm disturbances increases
• Those with heart disease in the family — genetic predisposition increases the risk
• People with known heart disease — for continuous monitoring between doctor visits
• Athletes and exercise-motivated — to optimize training and recovery
• People who experience heart palpitations — to document symptoms
• Those who want to be proactive Prevention is always better than treatment

What you should consider before buying

1. Compatibility

Check that the watch works with your smartphone. The Apple Watch requires the iPhone, while the Samsung works best with Samsung phones but can be used with other Android devices and to some extent the iPhone.

2. Medical approval

All smartwatches with ECG function are not medically approved in Sweden/EU. Check that the watch has the CE marking for medical devices.

3. Battery life

Think about how often you are prepared to charge the watch. The Apple Watch requires daily charging, while the Withings can go a month between charges.

4. Subscription costs

Some features may require monthly subscriptions (like Fitbit Premium). Include these costs in your budget.

5. Design and comfort

You will wear the watch around the clock. Choose a model that feels comfortable and that you think is stylish enough to wear in all situations.

Limitations to be aware of

Although smartwatches with ECG are impressive technology, it is important to understand their limitations:

• They do not replace professional care — a smartwatch is a supplement, not a substitute for medical examinations
• Not all heart problems are detected — smartwatches can miss certain types of heart rhythm disturbances
• False alarms may occur — movement and poor contact can give incorrect readings
• Requires regular use — to get value, you need to wear the watch consistently

How to use the ECG function optimally

1. Take regular measurements — make it a habit to take an ECG once a week, even when you are feeling well
2. Measure on symptoms — if you feel palpitations or discomfort, immediately take an ECG
3. Sit still — for best results, sit down and be still during the measurement
4. Documenting — save results and record any symptoms you felt
5. Share with your doctor — show regular results during health checks

When should you contact the health care?

A smartwatch can provide valuable indications, but some situations require immediate medical assessment:

• If the watch repeatedly warns of atrial fibrillation
• In case of chest pain, shortness of breath or a feeling of fainting
• If you experience irregular heart rhythm that does not go away
• In case of severe palpitations that come suddenly

eHeart can help you further

If your smartwatch detects something that worries you, or you would like a professional assessment of your health data, please feel free to contact us at eHeart. We can do more advanced ECG examinations, long-term ECG, labor tests and cardiac ultrasound to give you a complete picture of your heart health.

Our specialists can also help you interpret data from your smartwatch and put it into a larger context along with other health parameters.

Conclusion

A smartwatch with ECG function is a valuable investment in your heart health. It empowers you to be proactive, spot problems early and have better control over your health. Whether you choose Apple, Samsung, Fitbit, Withings or Garmin, you get a powerful tool to monitor your heart health — right from your wrist.

Remember: Technology is a tool for prevention and early detection, but it will never replace regular health checks and professional medical advice.

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