# How the ECG Feature of the Apple Watch Saved a Life: A Personal Narrative
In recent times, advancements in wearable technology have greatly enhanced health tracking, with the Apple Watch leading the way. Many accounts have demonstrated how this device has been instrumental in preserving lives, and one particularly striking narrative is from Rachel Manalo. Her account highlights the significance of health monitoring technologies and their capacity to alert users to critical medical issues.
## A Life-Altering Realization
Rachel Manalo was 18 weeks into her pregnancy when she began to face troubling symptoms. She observed her heart racing uncontrollably, which left her feeling exhausted and breathless. Worried about her own well-being and that of her unborn baby, she chose to utilize the ECG (electrocardiogram) function on her Apple Watch to evaluate her heart’s electrical patterns.
“I would feel fatigued, short of breath. […] I tapped the EKG feature on my watch. Then you put your finger on the crown and keep your arm steady on the table,” Manalo shared, recounting her interaction with the device.
The ECG application produced an “inconclusive” result, yet it revealed that her heart was beating at a concerning rate of 150 beats per minute for over 40 minutes. The Apple Watch urged her to obtain medical assistance, leading to a diagnosis of ventricular tachycardia—a condition where the heart’s lower chambers beat too rapidly, hindering sufficient blood flow and oxygen transportation throughout the body.
## The Medical Insight
Dr. Nguyen, who cared for Manalo, clarified the seriousness of her situation. “That kind of heart problem, if not addressed, can result in a heart attack. And considering she was pregnant,” he remarked. The physician highlighted the value of the data gathered by health devices like the Apple Watch, which can offer essential information for medical professionals.
Manalo’s experience demonstrates how technology can act as an early warning system, encouraging individuals to seek medical guidance when they might otherwise disregard troubling signs. After her diagnosis, Manalo followed all advised medical protocols and managed to have a healthy pregnancy.
## The Impact of Wearable Technology on Health Tracking
While the Apple Watch is not a replacement for professional medical assessments, its ECG feature can be crucial in detecting potential health complications. Available on Apple Watch Series 4 and later models (excluding SE versions), the ECG app permits users to perform an electrocardiogram in a mere 30 seconds, offering vital insights into their heart health.
The capability to oversee heart rhythms and receive notifications regarding irregularities empowers users to take initiative in managing their health. This function is especially critical for pregnant women and those with pre-existing medical conditions, as prompt action can greatly enhance outcomes.
## Conclusion
Rachel Manalo’s experience showcases the life-saving capabilities of wearable technology such as the Apple Watch. By allowing users to monitor their health and furnishing crucial information to healthcare providers, these gadgets can play a significant role in early detection and prompt action. As technology advances, the incorporation of health monitoring features in everyday devices is likely to become more essential in fostering wellness and averting serious health concerns.
