Apple just flipped the switch on a new, potentially lifesaving health feature for Apple Watch users in Canada.
As of Oct 8th, your watch can now alert you if it detects signs of chronic high blood pressure, a condition also known as hypertension.
This is a pretty big deal. Hypertension is often called a "silent killer" because it usually has no symptoms, meaning millions of people don't even know they have it. It's a major risk factor for serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. Now, the watch on your wrist can give you a heads-up that it might be time to talk to your doctor.
Apple Watch Hypertension Monitoring How Does It Even Work?
Maybe you've had your blood pressure taken using one of those cuffs at a doctor's office or when you're REALLY bored in line at a pharmacy. Apple Watch can start monitoring for signs of hypertension, no cuff required. And the way it's doing this is arguably even smarter.
The hypertension notification feature uses the existing optical heart sensor on your Apple Watch. It passively analyzes how the blood vessels in your wrist respond to the rhythm of your heart.
Think of it like watching a garden hose when you turn on the tap; the way the hose moves and expands gives you an idea of the pressure inside. The watch is doing something similar, but for your circulatory system.
Also, this isn't a one-time check. The feature works quietly in the background, reviewing your data over 30-day periods to look for consistent patterns. If it detects signs that could indicate hypertension, it will send you a notification.
Why Are Hypertension notifications important?
Apple started doing this after their research showed hypertension affects a staggering number of people—about 1.3 billion adults globally and approximately 8 million Canadians, which is roughly one in four of us.
One of the biggest challenges with high blood pressure is screening people early enough to start treatment.
Apple's new feature could make a huge difference. The company estimates that it could notify over 1 million people with undiagnosed hypertension within the first year alone. That's a lot of people getting crucial information that could lead to life-changing conversations with their doctors.
How To Turn On Hypertension Notifications on Apple Watch
You'll need to make sure you check a few boxes before you start (literally there's a survey) but first, you'll need to make sure you have the right hardware. You'll need either an Apple Watch Series 9 (or newer) or an Ultra 2 (or newer). That's because these watches (and the models onward) are equipped with the optical heart sensor.
If you have one of these more modern Apple Watches, here's how to turn on Hypertension monitoring:
- Open Health app on Apple Watch
- Tap on your profile picture in the top right corner
- Tap Health Checklist (it's under the Features section)
- Tap Set Up
- Fill out the short form.
Assuming you meet the health criteria in the form (over 22, not preganant, haven't been diagnosed with hypertension before) then you're all set for your Apple watch to keep tabs on this for you.
What Happens If You Get A Hypertension Alert on Apple Watch
It's really important to remember that this feature is an early warning system, not a medical diagnosis. Your Apple Watch is not a doctor.
If you do receive a notification, Apple recommends you take the following steps:
*** Use a proper blood pressure cuff:** You can get these at most pharmacies. Take your readings as directed. *** Log your results:** The Apple Health app has been updated with a new logging tool that helps you record your cuff measurements and understand what they mean based on local guidelines. *** Talk to your doctor:** Share the detailed report from the Health app with your healthcare provider at your next visit. They can then make a proper diagnosis and discuss a treatment plan.
This is another powerful example of how the smart devices we wear every day are becoming incredible tools for personal health. Beyond notifications about texts and emails, Apple Watch can be such an important device for your health and wellness, your smart home and more!
Are there any other can't miss Apple Watch features you think more people need to know about? Let me know your thoughts by sending me a message on my Instagram, @drewkozub!
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