How to Use the ECG on Apple Watch: The Complete Guide

Your heart is the body’s powerhouse, and monitoring it periodically can help you avoid any potential health problems. An electrocardiogram (ECG) test records the heart’s electrical activity, and the Apple Watch promises to measure and monitor your heart health right from your wrist. In this post, I will show you how to set up and take an ECG with your Apple Watch.

How to set up the ECG app on iPhone

Users of Apple Watch Series 4, Series 5, Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, and Apple Watch Ultra can measure heart rate and cadence with just the touch of their wrist.

1. Please ensure that this feature is available in your country or region before starting the procedure.
2. Open the Health app on the iPhone that’s paired with your Apple Watch.
3. Tap the Overview tab, then tap Heart → Electrocardiograms (ECGs) → tap Set up the ECG app.
4. Then enter your date of birth and tap Continue → Read the information on the screen and tap Continue.
5. Finally, you are on the Setup Complete screen → click Finish.

Then switch to your Apple Watch to take an EKG.

NB. The ECG app is not intended for users under the age of 22.

How to take an EKG with your Apple Watch

Taking an EKG on your Apple Watch isn’t as difficult as it sounds. The process is very simple and straightforward. However, before starting the examination, make sure that the watch is correctly positioned on the wrist and that there are no sudden movements during the specified time.

1. Press the Digital Crown on your Apple Watch and go to the ECG app.
2. To start reading, simply place your finger on the crown.
   Remember not to depress the Digital Crown; Just put your finger gently.

   

3. The reading will take about 30 seconds.
   Do not lift your finger until the reading is complete.
4. After the countdown is complete, you can view your results.
   In my case it is sinus rhythm.

   

Interpret ECG test results

Interpreting EKG test results is very simple. It is important to know what each result means in order to better understand your heart health.

• Sinus rhythm: Sinus rhythm indicates that your heart is beating at a normal rate.
• Inconclusive: An inconclusive result needs further testing as there is no definitive answer.
• Low or high heart rate. A low or high heart rate may indicate a potential heart problem that needs attention.
• Atrial fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder that can have severe consequences.
• Bad recording: If a bad recording is detected, it may be due to motion or poor skin contact of the ECG electrodes.

Your Apple Watch won’t give you a detailed report; You will simply summarize your readings. Go to your iPhone for a detailed analysis.

View ECG results on iPhone

1. Launch the Health app.
2. Click on the browse option in the lower right corner → select the heart.
3. Go to your most recent ECG reading.

   

This method allows you to view all readings organized by dates and sessions in one place.

Share your ECG results with your doctor from your iPhone

There may be times when you want to share your reading with your doctor or family members. Let’s look at the process itself:

1. Go to the Health app → tap Browse → select the heart.
2. Go to “Electrocardiogram (ECG)” → tap on the “Chart” option to view the ECG result.

   

3. Click on the share icon in the upper right corner.
   Alternatively, you can choose “Export PDF” → tap on the “Share” icon.
4. Select the medium through which you want to share the ECG report.
   Then follow the onscreen instructions to complete the transfer.

   

How to enable irregular beat notifications on iPhone

If you are concerned about the condition of your heart or are afraid that you may be in a difficult situation, you can choose to automatically receive notifications about sudden changes in the condition of your heart. Follow the steps given below to do the same:

1. Go to the Health app → tap Browse → select the heart.
2. Scroll down to the irregular rhythm notification.

   

3. Go to Irregular rhythm notifications at the bottom → Turn on Irregular rhythm.

   

If you are accessing this feature for the first time, do the following:

• Follow steps 1-2 above, then tap Setup → Continue.

  

• Proceed by filling in the required details as prompted. You will now be introduced to the capabilities of the Apple Watch, so read it carefully..
• Click “Continue” and select “Turn on notifications” when prompted.

  

This should help you start receiving automatic notifications if your heart condition is critical.

Can’t turn on irregular rhythm notifications? Quick fix

However, if you can’t turn on irregular rhythm notifications, you may need to tweak your settings a bit.

1. Go to the Health app → tap Browse → select the heart.
2. Scroll down to the irregular rhythm notification.
3. If the feature is not available, select Password settings at the bottom of the page.
4. Turn on wrist detection and go back to the Health app where you left off.

   

5. You should now see the Enable option instead of the Not Available prompt and turn on Irregular Rhythm.

   

If the problem persists, you need to fix it in the Watch app on your iPhone.

1. Launch the Watch app → scroll down and select the heart.
2. Now enable Irregular rhythm under heart rate notifications.

   

That’s it! These solutions should resolve any issues you may encounter when irregular rhythm notifications are enabled.

NB. Patients with atrial fibrillation cannot enable these notifications.

Instructions

Does Apple Watch SE have an ECG monitor?

No, the Apple Watch SE does not have an ECG feature. The ECG feature is available on Apple Watch Series 4 and later.

How often should I do an ECG on my Apple Watch?

It is recommended that you take an ECG at least once a week to monitor any abnormal heart rhythms. However, if you have a history of heart problems or are experiencing symptoms such as heart palpitations, you should see your doctor and follow his or her advice on how often to take an EKG.

How accurate are ECG measurements on the Apple Watch?

According to Apple, the Apple Watch ECG app has a sensitivity of 99.6% in classifying atrial fibrillation and a specificity of 98.3% in classifying sinus rhythm. However, it is important to note that measuring an ECG on your Apple Watch is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerns, you should consult your doctor.

Isn’t it easy?

Apple Watch revolutionized the way we take EKGs. With advanced sensors and technology, users can record and monitor ECGs more accurately. The simple yet effective user interface allows patients to get the most out of their device.

With the ability to store data, track progress over time, and share results with a doctor, the Apple Watch is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in tracking an ECG. In conclusion, the Apple Watch is a great way to take an ECG and is ideal for anyone who wants to track the health of their heart. Follow our guide for more Apple Watch tips and tricks!

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