NOT science fiction.
A Bluetooth heart monitor could text your local hospital if you are about to have a heart attack, according to research published in Inderscience’s International Journal of Electronic Healthcare. The device measures electrical signals from the heart, analyses them to produce an electrocardiogram (ECG) and sends an alert together with the ECG by cell phone text message. Portable heart monitor sends emergency alerts and ECG as text message, Virtual Medical Worlds, August 2007
Original article: Design of wearable cardiac telemedicine system, International Journal of Electronic Healthcare 2007 – Vol. 3, No.3 pp. 303 – 316
Speaking as someone who has has a heart attack, this device would not just save lives. It appears as though it would reduce costs in hospitals by reducing the number ofemergsncy case that wern’t actually heart attacks. It would also give “at risk” individuals a boost in confidence.
With the cost of ECG machines dropping (for example the Seca ecg machines) its good to see modern alternatives for people in the public to use that can then be backed up with sound hi spec machines later.
I had a M.I last year, and they put a ICD (Implantable Defibrillator) in my heart, it actually monitors any cardiac arrhythmias that I may have. It would be great if it had a system like this that uses a cell phone to send the information to my doctor on the fly. I am going to ask my doc about this on my next visit ! Thanks for the information.
With the latest development of mobile defibrillators, knowing your surroundings and if this technology exists at any given location could be the difference between life of death…
I am an RN in sacramento, and I was a Paramedic for 3 years before that. I have seen A LOT of heart attacks and cardiac arrests. Whether it is ST-segment elevation or full on Ventricular Tachycardia I have seen pretty much everything. And let me tell you time is of the essence if you want to save someones life. I mean literally 3-5 minutes can be the difference between life and death. So this device really sounds incredible to me. The second your ST-elevation begins, (which is indicative of a heart attack), This little device calls it into the hospital?!?! Very impressive in my opinion, I cannot imagine how many lives a device like that can actually save. Great article, I am actually going to be keeping an Eye on this monitor, I wouldnt be surprised if we actually saw something like this become an everyday medical device.