The Tech Wrangler: Navigating Health with Smart Technology
In the ever-evolving landscape of consumer technology, the monthly column "The Tech Wrangler" from Forbes Vetted serves as a beacon for those seeking the best values in tech. This column is not merely about finding the least expensive products; it’s about identifying the sweet spot where price meets performance—essentially, where money is well spent. As a tech journalist, I’ve had the privilege of testing cutting-edge technology from some of the biggest names in the industry. However, my perspective on technology shifted dramatically after a life-altering event: a heart attack at the age of 33 in 2020.
A Life-Changing Experience
The morning after Thanksgiving in 2020, I woke up to a heart pounding out of my chest. A trip to the ER revealed a shocking 99% blockage in a major artery—an alarming statistic that is often terminal for many. I was fortunate to survive, but the experience left me grappling with a new reality: I had to rebuild my health after years of neglect. Diagnosed with heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, I was scared for my future. While I adhered to my doctor’s recommendations and attended monthly checkups, I also turned to technology for daily tracking and insights that would help me manage my health.
Essential Health Tech Tools
Through my journey, I discovered several essential tools that have become integral to my daily routine. Here’s a look at the products I use regularly to monitor my health, why I rely on them, and how they could potentially save your life.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Just months before my heart attack, I had abandoned smartwatches for analog ones. In hindsight, had I been wearing an Apple Watch, I might have caught the warning signs before my heart attack. Post-recovery, I embraced the Apple Watch Ultra 2, ensuring I always had one on my wrist, even while the other charged.
The health features of the Apple Watch Ultra 2 are extensive. It can perform ECGs, track blood oxygen levels, and, with the upcoming Watch OS 11 update, will offer enhanced sleep tracking. Most importantly, its heart rate monitoring capabilities have been invaluable in understanding my heart patterns. The watch has alerted me to erratic heart rates and AFib on multiple occasions.
Dr. Johanna Contreras, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital, emphasizes the importance of these features. For individuals with heart disease, the Apple Watch can help maintain a steady heart rate, which is crucial for those on medications that may affect heart function. Additionally, the Apple Health app syncs all medical records via Medical ID, allowing paramedics to access critical information during emergencies.
The fall detection feature and emergency contact alerts have also proven to be lifesavers, especially since my family lives overseas. The Activity Rings serve as a daily motivator, encouraging me to stay active and engaged in my health journey.
Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitor
As I navigated my recovery, my focus shifted to managing my diabetes. After struggling to control my glucose levels, I discovered the Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), which transformed my approach to health management.
The Dexcom G7 provides real-time alerts for high and low glucose levels, often notifying me up to 20 minutes before a drop occurs. Its Direct-to-Watch feature allows me to view glucose readings directly on my Apple Watch, making it easy to monitor my levels while on the go. This device has been crucial in helping me understand how different foods affect my blood sugar, enabling me to lower my average glucose to non-diabetic levels within six months.
Dr. Contreras notes that continuous monitoring is essential for diabetes management, as it eliminates the need for frequent fingersticks and provides valuable insights into glucose trends.
Kardia Mobile 6-Lead Personal EKG
Managing heart conditions outside of a clinical setting can be frustrating. The Kardia Mobile 6-Lead Personal EKG offers a portable solution, allowing me to take six-lead ECGs anywhere. Unlike wearable devices that typically provide single-lead readings, the Kardia Mobile delivers more comprehensive data, detecting conditions like AFib, bradycardia, and tachycardia.
This device is invaluable for sending results directly to my doctor or certified cardiologists for remote evaluation, making it a staple in my health toolkit.
Withings Body Scan Smart Scale
The Withings Body Scan Smart Scale is the latest addition to my health arsenal. This smart scale not only tracks weight and body composition but also runs a six-lead ECG, checks nerve health, and monitors blood oxygen levels and circulation.
Having only used it for a few weeks, I’m already impressed by its ability to provide a comprehensive health profile. This data is invaluable during my cardiologist visits, allowing for a more informed discussion about my health.
Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon
Completing my health toolkit is the Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon. Since starting cardiac rehab, I’ve relied on this smart ring for its deep insights into sleep and 24/7 heart rate tracking. It monitors vital signs such as resting heart rate, heart rate variability, respiratory rate, and skin temperature—critical metrics for someone with my health conditions.
The Oura Ring’s compatibility with both iOS and Android devices makes it versatile, and its impressive battery life allows for extended use without frequent charging. Sleep monitoring is particularly crucial for managing heart disease, as understanding sleep patterns can help prevent worsening health conditions.
Incorporating these technologies into my daily routine has not only empowered me to take control of my health but has also provided peace of mind in navigating my recovery journey. Each device plays a unique role in monitoring my health, offering insights that are both actionable and life-saving. As technology continues to advance, the intersection of health and tech will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in how we manage our well-being.