Understanding the Impact of Smartwatches for Pacemaker
Best smartwatch for pacemaker
Smartwatches for Pacemaker are changing how we monitor our health, allowing us to track heart rate, activity, and sleep quality effortlessly. But for people with implanted cardiac devices like pacemakers, the introduction of wearable devices raises safety concerns. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from smartwatches for pacemaker can affect cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). A recent study by the University of Utah showed that certain smartwatches for pacemaker may disrupt pacemakers and ICDs, sometimes exceeding the safety limits set by the FDA. The study indicated that smartwatches posed a greater risk compared to smart scales and smart rings.
Despite this, Fitbit Versa was selected as the best overall for heart rate monitoring due to its features, functionality, and price. While smartwatches for pacemaker like these can be motivating for workouts, it’s essential to weigh the risks carefully. If you’re considering an upgrade, make sure to pick the one that balances safety with perks and meets your needs.
Understanding Smartwatches for Pacemaker Safety
Smart Watches and Health Monitoring
Smart watches, like the Apple Watch Series, have evolved beyond just showing time—they now act as advanced medical devices. Equipped with features such as ECG, heart rate monitoring, and activity tracking, they provide valuable health data. These devices use bioimpedance technology, which measures electrical current flow to gather essential health information, including blood pressure, heart rhythm, and skeletal muscle mass. This innovation has been a game-changer in tracking heart health, sleep quality, and overall wellness.
Pacemakers and Other Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices
Pacemakers, ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators), and CRT devices are essential for patients with certain heart conditions. These cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) help regulate heart rhythms, ensuring the heart beats at a safe rate. However, these devices can be impacted by electromagnetic interference (EMI) from external sources like Smartwatches for Pacemaker, mobile phones, and fitness trackers. Devices with ECG capabilities and bioimpedance sensing technology generate electromagnetic waves that may disrupt the function of CIEDs if placed too close to the heart.
Do Smartwatches Stop Pacemakers and ICDs from Working Properly?
What do the researchers say?
Researchers suggest that individuals with implantable devices should avoid wearable fitness trackers that use bioimpedance technology due to potential interference. They emphasize that the product leaflet should indicate if a wearable device uses bioimpedance. The researchers warn that these devices can theoretically disrupt ICDs and pacemakers, leading to disastrous consequences. For instance, interference could prevent a pacemaker from delivering the necessary electrical impulses, which maintain the proper heart rate. Additionally, the interference could cause an ICD to mistakenly deliver an unnecessary electric shock to the heart, a painful experience.
The BHF Verdict
While many use fitness trackers to improve exercise habits, eating behaviors, and motivation for a healthier lifestyle, this research primarily impacts people with pacemakers and ICDs. For these individuals, healthcare teams can help with alternative ways to track health goals. The study focused on wearables using bioimpedance technology, but other devices without this risk might offer similar benefits without interference.
7 Best Heart Rate Monitor Watches for 2025
1:Best Overall
Fitbit Versa 4
The Fitbit Versa 4 is an excellent choice for those seeking an all-around heart rate monitor. With a battery life of up to 6 days, it tracks a range of metrics such as heart rate, calories burned, sleep metrics, and oxygen saturation. It offers more than 40 sport modes, including niche activities like kayaking, snowboarding, and paddleboarding.
| Operating System | ios |
| Special Feature | GPS |
| Battery Capacity | 160 Milliamp Hours |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Wireless Communication Standard | Bluetooth |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
| GPS | Built-in GPS |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Screen Size | 1.34 Inches |
| Brand | Fitbit |
2:Best for General Health
Fitbit Sense 2
The Fitbit Sense 2 excels in heart rate and stress tracking with a battery life of 6+ days. This smartwatch also monitors blood oxygen levels, sleep, and supports over 40 sport modes, including running, cycling, and yoga.
| Operating System | Android Wear 1.0 |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 6400 MB |
| Special Feature | Activity Tracker |
| Battery Capacity | 78 Amp Hours |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Wireless Communication Standard | Bluetooth |
| Battery Cell Composition | Alkaline |
| GPS | Built-in GPS |
| Shape | Square |
| Screen Size | 1.34 Inches |
3:Best for Small Wrists
Garmin Vivosmart 5
The Garmin Vivosmart 5 is perfect for individuals with smaller wrists. It tracks heart rate, oxygen saturation, stress, and calories burned. It offers up to 7 days of battery life and supports activities like running, biking, and pool swimming.
| Operating System | Android & iOS |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 28 MB |
| Special Feature | Pedometer, Heart Rate Monitor, Time Display, Notifications, Touchscreen, Sleep Monitor, GPS, Daily Workout Memory, Calendaring, Breath Monitor, Oxymeter (SpO2), Cycle Tracking, Stress Tracking, Calorie Tracker, Activity TrackerPedometer, Heart Rate Monitor, Time Display, Notifications, Touchscreen, Sleep Monitor, GPS, Daily Workout Memory, Calendaring, Breath Monitor, Oxymeter (SpO2), Cycle Tracking, Stress Tracking, Calorie Tracker, Activity Tracker |
| Battery Capacity | 4 Milliamp Hours |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, USB |
| Wireless Communication Standard | Bluetooth |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Polymer |
| GPS | True |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Screen Size | 0.84 Inches |
4:Best for People with Heart Conditions
Google Pixel Watch
The Google Pixel Watch is a top pick for those with heart conditions. With a battery life of up to 24 hours, it tracks essential metrics like heart rate, calories burned, and sleep. It supports over 40 sport modes, from cross-country skiing to weightlifting.
| Operating System | Android |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 32 GB |
| Special Feature | Sleep Monitor, Email, Accelerometer, Body Temperature Monitor, ECG, Activity Tracker, Always On Display, Calorie Tracker, Stress Tracking, Contactless PSleep Monitor, Email, Accelerometer, Body Temperature Monitor, ECG, Activity Tracker, Always On Display, Calorie Tracker, Stress Tracking, Contactless Payments, Fall Detection, Heart Rate Monitorayments, Fall Detection, Heart Rate MonitorSleep Monitor, Email, Accelerometer, Body Temperature Monitor, ECG, Activity Tracker, Always On Display, Calorie Tracker, Stress Tracking, Cont… See more |
| Connectivity Technology | Wi-Fi |
| Wireless Communication Standard | Bluetooth |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
| GPS | GPS Via Smartphone |
| Shape | Round |
| Screen Size | 45 Millimeters |
| Brand |
5:Best for Runners
Garmin Forerunner 55
The Garmin Forerunner 55 is designed for runners, providing heart rate tracking and metrics like distance, pace, and sleep. With a battery life of up to 14 days, it also supports various sport modes such as cardio, yoga, and pool swimming.
| Operating System | Android Wear |
| Special Feature | Bluetooth |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth |
| Wireless Communication Standard | Bluetooth |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Polymer |
| GPS | GPS Enabled |
| Shape | Heart |
| Screen Size | 1.04 Inches |
| Brand | Garmin |
| Model Name | Forerunner 55, Black |
6:Best for Phone Features
Apple Watch Series 8
The Apple Watch Series 8 offers comprehensive phone features and heart rate monitoring. With up to 18 hours of battery life, it tracks blood oxygen, body temperature, and sleep metrics. It also includes several sport modes, including HIIT, yoga, and cycling.
| Operating System | WatchOS |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 32 GB |
| Special Feature | Activity Tracker, Heart Rate Monitor, Sleep Monitor, Blood Oxygen |
| Battery Capacity | 308 Milliamp Hours |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Wireless Communication Standard | Bluetooth, 5 GHz Radio Frequency, 802.11b, 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
| GPS | Built-in GPS |
| Shape | Apple,Car,Irregular |
| Screen Size | 45 Millimeters |
7;Best Screenless Heart-Rate Monitor
WHOOP 4.0 Band
The WHOOP 4.0 Band is a screenless heart-rate monitor that tracks heart rate, blood oxygen, and skin temperature. It has up to 5 days of battery life and is ideal for users who prefer a minimalistic design without the distractions of a screen.
| Brand | WHOOP |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | Onyx |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones, Tablets, Laptops |
| Screen Size | 4 Inches |
| Product Dimensions | 1.1″L x 0.4″W x 7.1″H |
| Item Weight | 0.31 Pounds |
| Battery Life | 5 days |
| Sensor Type | Wearable |
| Battery Description | Lithium-Ion |
How Smart Watches and Pacemakers May Interact
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) occurs when electrical signals from one device disrupt the function of another. Smart watches, especially those with ECG apps and bioimpedance technologies, emit electromagnetic waves and magnetic fields. While most smart watches are generally safe, activities like using an ECG app or placing the device in a breast pocket near a pacemaker can interfere with the pacemaker’s ability to regulate the heart’s rhythm. Even low-energy devices can create imperceptible currents that pose a risk to those with implanted cardiac devices.
The Role of Bioimpedance Technology
Bioimpedance technology, commonly used in smart watches, smart scales, and rings, measures body composition, such as fat mass and skeletal muscle mass. This technology uses a small, imperceptible electrical current to assess body composition, which can interfere with pacemakers and other implanted cardiac devices. Due to the flow of electrical current through the body, healthcare providers recommend caution for individuals with pacemakers or similar devices when using products that feature bioimpedance technology.
Testing and Manufacturer Guidelines
Benchtop testing by device manufacturers and independent researchers has been key to understanding potential risks between wearable devices and implanted medical devices. The FDA has provided guidelines for ensuring the compatibility of wearable devices with implanted devices. However, since pacemakers and cardiac devices evolve, healthcare providers emphasize the need for continued research to assess risks posed by emerging technologies in consumer devices.
How to Choose the Best Heart Rate Monitor Watch
- Choosing the right heart rate monitor watch can be overwhelming with so many options available.
- The Fitbit Versa 4 is a top pick due to:
- 24/7 heart rate monitoring
- Tracks heart rate during both resting and exercising
- Displays metrics directly on the main screen, easy to access
- Other factors to consider when choosing:
- Cost: Ensure the price fits your budget
- Customer reviews: Read reviews to understand user experiences
- Features: Look for GPS, activity tracking, and health monitoring features (blood pressure, oxygen saturation, etc.)
- Smartwatches typically offer:
- Connectivity to your phone
- GPS and activity tracking for athletes
- Monitoring for heart and lung conditions, such as blood pressure and oxygen saturation
- For the most accurate heart rate readings:
- Consider using a chest monitor if you need precise tracking, especially for managing health conditions
- Chest monitors are generally more accurate than smartwatches and are worn around the chest for reliable, consistent data
What Can Your Heart Rate Tell You About Your Health?
- Resting heart rate can be an indicator of overall health and physical fitness level.
- A low resting heart rate is often associated with better health and longevity.
- A higher resting heart rate may signal an increased risk of chronic diseases.
- Elevated heart rate can be a risk factor for future health issues, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
Benefits of Monitoring Your Heart Rate
- Monitoring your heart rate can help detect heart issues early, ensuring the best outcomes.
- It allows you to track how your body responds to exercise and rest.
- It can identify irregularities such as fast or slow heart rates, even without obvious symptoms.
- Early detection of heart issues is crucial for people with a history of heart problems, such as AFib (atrial fibrillation).
- Regular heart rate monitoring helps identify arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.
Benefits of Smart Watches for Heart Health
Heart Rate Monitoring and ECG Capabilities
Many smart watches offer built-in heart rate monitoring and ECG functions, which help track heart rhythm and overall cardiovascular health.
For pacemaker users, these features are useful for tracking improvements or identifying irregularities that may require attention from a healthcare provider.
Sleep Tracking and Activity Monitoring
Smart watches excel at monitoring sleep quality and daily activity, which are essential for maintaining heart health.
Tracking sleep patterns and physical activity helps users, including those with pacemakers, to maintain a healthy lifestyle by understanding how exercise and rest affect their condition.
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Some advanced smart watches also offer blood pressure tracking, a valuable tool for individuals with heart conditions.
Regular monitoring helps users provide essential data to healthcare providers, aiding in managing conditions that can influence pacemaker performance.
How to Safely Use Smart Watches with Pacemakers
- Maintain a Safe Distance
- It is essential for patients with pacemakers to maintain a safe distance between their smart watches and implanted devices. Experts recommend keeping wearable devices at least 6 inches away from a pacemaker to avoid interference.
- This includes not wearing the smart watch in a breast pocket close to the pacemaker and avoiding placing the device on the chest.
- Avoid Using Bioimpedance Features
- Bioimpedance technologies, which measure body composition using electrical current, should be avoided by patients with pacemakers. These technologies may generate interference that can disrupt pacemaker function.
- Devices such as smart scales using bioimpedance sensing should be used cautiously or entirely avoided.
- Consult Healthcare Providers
- Before purchasing a smart watch, patients with pacemakers are advised to consult healthcare providers to discuss potential risks of electrical interference.
- Healthcare professionals can help recommend the best wearable devices and offer advice specific to the type of implanted device the patient has.
- Follow Device Instructions
- Both smart watch and pacemaker manufacturers provide specific instructions to reduce interference risks. For example, Apple advises keeping devices like the Apple Watch at a distance from CIEDs (Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices).
- Patients should always refer to the manufacturer’s manuals for guidance on safe usage.
FAQ: Smart Watches and Pacemakers
1: Can I wear a smart watch if I have a pacemaker?
Yes, it is generally safe to wear a smart watch with a pacemaker, but you must follow specific guidelines to prevent interference. It’s important to maintain a safe distance of at least 6 inches between the smart watch and the pacemaker and avoid placing the watch near your chest, particularly in a breast pocket. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure the smart watch is compatible with your specific cardiac device.
2: Are heart rate monitoring watches accurate?
- The accuracy of heart rate monitoring watches can be influenced by factors such as:
- The brand of the watch
- Your activity level
- The position of the sensors on your skin
- While these watches are not as precise as medical devices like electrode-containing chest monitors, they are generally accurate and useful for tracking heart rate.
3: Are smart watch ECG and heart rate monitoring features safe for pacemaker users?
ECG and heart rate monitoring features are typically safe when used responsibly. However, it’s crucial to avoid positioning the smart watch too close to the pacemaker. The ECG feature uses electrical currents that could cause electromagnetic interference if placed too close to the implanted device. Always consult your healthcare provider if you plan to use these features regularly.
4: Can a smartwatch detect heart issues?
Smartwatches can be useful for identifying heart issues, such as abnormal heart rhythms. According to Dr. Nick West, smartwatches may help detect conditions like AFib (atrial fibrillation). There have been early reports of smartwatches identifying signs of heart attack by analyzing changes in electrical activity. However, this technology is still under development.
5: What types of smart watches are safest for people with pacemakers?
Smartwatches without advanced bioimpedance technologies are generally safer for pacemaker users because they emit lower levels of electromagnetic interference. Models such as the Fitbit Versa Series or Garmin Vivosmart, which focus on basic health tracking and lack ECG or wireless charging features, are good options. Always check with your healthcare provider to determine the safest models for your pacemaker.
6: What is a “normal” heart rate?
- The American Heart Association defines a typical resting heart rate for healthy adults as between 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, individual heart rate can vary depending on factors such as:
- Age
- Sex
- Physical fitness level
- Health status
7: What is the best smartwatch for detecting irregular heartbeat?
If AFib or an irregular heart rate is a concern, choose a smartwatch designed specifically to detect irregular heartbeats. Some models, like the Apple Watch, Fitbit, and the Google Pixel Watch (which uses Fitbit technology), have FDA clearance for AFib notifications, making them more reliable options.
Conclusion
The intersection of smartwatches for pacemaker users and pacemakers marks a fascinating yet complex development in modern health monitoring. For individuals with cardiac implantable electronic devices, navigating this new terrain requires caution, strict adherence to guidelines, and continuous communication with healthcare providers. As technology continues to advance, more research and development are expected in creating wearable devices that safely support heart health, allowing patients to enjoy the benefits of smartwatches for pacemaker users without compromising the functionality of their medical devices.
