Apple Watch never checks for heart attacks

apple-watch

One of the Apple Watch promotional material includes this image (apparently) from the health app.

Apple Watch

How can this be interpreted? I understand that the Apple Watch may alert for irregular heart rhythms, but what does this message means.

Best Answer

Basically, this is really just a disclaimer that Apple Watch cannot detect heart attacks.

According to Apple:

Things you should know

  • Apple Watch cannot detect heart attacks. If you ever experience chest pain, pressure, tightness, or what you think is a heart attack, call emergency services immediately.

  • Apple Watch is not constantly looking for AFib. This means Apple Watch cannot detect all instances of AFib, and people with AFib may not get a notification.

  • If you’re not feeling well, you should talk to your doctor even if you don’t get a notification. Symptoms such as a rapid, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting, can indicate a serious condition.

  • Do not change your medication without talking to your doctor.

  • In some instances, the notification may indicate the presence of an irregular heart rhythm other than AFib.

Source: Heart rate notifications on your Apple Watch, Apple.