Were you aware that more than 20.5 million individuals from around the world died from a heart attack in 2021 alone? What is perhaps even more concerning is the fact that these figures are likely underreported. The good news is that science has come a long way in terms of appreciating the causes of heart attacks as well as how they can be prevented by adopting a more proactive approach. Technology now also plays a key role, and in order to appreciate what the future has to offer, it’s wise to take a quick look at some modern advancements.
Portable ECG Monitoring Devices
ECG is a frequently used abbreviation for the rather technical term “electrocardiogram.” An ECG will monitor various real-time data associated with the heart, primarily its rhythm and the associated electrical activity. An ECG may also be used to diagnose any chronic issues (such as atrial fibrillation) that could indicate more serious problems. Patients can now enjoy this very same level of on-the-go insight thanks to wearable devices such as a portable 12-lead ECG. Professionals can interpret any results within a short period of time, providing an additional level of protection to those suffering from heart-related issues.
The Rise of Telehealth
One of the many challenges associated with the recent COVID pandemic involved the lack of hands-on medical care (even routine checkups) due to social distancing measures. Having said this, a unique benefit has arisen from these times. The field of telemedicine is becoming commonplace, and this type of remote medical assistance has already saved lives.
In terms of heart attack detection, some patients may now be able to contact a cardiologist hundreds or even thousands of miles away via a conference call. Data can be sent within the blink of an eye, and when necessary, the proper emergency services may be contacted. While telehealth is still in its infancy, there is no doubt that this digital revolution will continue to reshape how patients interact with trained physicians.
Fitness Watches
There are also several mainstream devices that can sometimes be used to monitor the health of your heart. Perhaps the most common example comes in the form of the humble fitness watch. These wearable gadgets can provide a wealth of real-time information, such as pulse rate and oxygen intake, and some of the latest models are even capable of displaying a rough blood pressure measurement. While these are not specifically intended to check for the presence of a heart attack, they can still represent invaluable tools while providing additional peace of mind.
In Conclusion
Heart attacks are serious medical conditions, and yet, as many as nine out of every ten individuals can survive one if they seek prompt attention at the first sign of trouble. Portable ECG monitors and similar technology are two examples of just how far the medical sector has come over the past few years. Taking advantage of these technological advancements can give you a heads-up on your heart health. Ultimately, an ounce of prevention will go a long way!
