Potential Risks from Apple's Watch

One of the most sophisticated features offered by the Apple on its watch is the accessibility in monitoring heartbeat during daily activities. Throughout this device, we could maintain our heart rate whether it goes to high or low, so that we could prevent from unexpected situation.

Regarding to the integrated technology, this smart watch actually is mind-bugling phenomenon to the society. It is because the function is not only about informing us about the time, but also it can be a health keeper to us. For those who have heart problem, this device is becoming very effective and efficient way in keeping their lives. It is almost like a portable electrocardiogram (ECG) which can be brought wherever we want without worrying something. Pads put onto your body detecting your heart's electrical activity, which is shown as the well-known spiky lines on a monitor.

By using a device that is brought everyday means regularly monitoring their ECG, particularly for those who have a condition called atrial fibrillation, where the heart beats irregularly. This causes symptoms such as breathlessness, tiredness and chest pain, and puts people at risk of a stroke. But, many people can have an irregular heart rhythm without symptoms. They will be told by their watch to take the ECG result to a doctor. They could then go on medications such as blood thinners, which can trigger bleeding as a side effect. It is unclear whether there is any benefit from treating symptomless atrial fibrillation. Even if doctors advise no treatment, people will be falsely alarmed.

Several trials have investigated whether it is helpful to give ECGs to people without symptoms. The US Preventive Services Task Force has concluded that the evidence fails to show this approach does more good than harm. All such functions will no doubt be appreciated by people with health concerns - not to mention the worried well.