Apple Watch's new health features: Detecting hypertension and sleep apnea

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Apple is gearing up to revolutionize home health monitoring with the next generation of its Apple Watch series. A recent report from Bloomberg has unveiled a series of groundbreaking features slated for the Apple Watch Series 10, set to be released next year. Among these new features are the capabilities to detect elevated blood pressure and sleep disturbances, which can aid in diagnosing hypertension and sleep apnea, marking a significant leap forward in at-home health monitoring.

Elevated Blood Pressure Detection

The Apple Watch Series 10 will introduce a rudimentary blood pressure sensor, a pivotal step in extending health monitoring to a broader audience. Among the notable features in the upcoming Apple Watch, a rudimentary blood pressure sensor stands out. This innovative feature is expected to utilize near-infrared spectroscopy, a technique that gauges blood pressure changes by analyzing blood flow using near-infrared light. While it may not provide precise numerical readings akin to a medical cuff, it can effectively detect fluctuations and, crucially, elevations in blood pressure.

This essential early warning can prompt users to seek professional medical advice if hypertension is suspected. It serves as a crucial indicator for further medical investigation, ensuring timely attention to potential health concerns.

Bridging the Gap to Accurate Monitoring

As per the Bloomberg report, future iterations of the Apple Watch may evolve to provide precise systolic and diastolic measurements similar to those obtained with a traditional cuff. To further empower users, these advanced models might include a blood pressure journal, enabling individuals to monitor fluctuations and spikes over time. By offering this