Digital health has lagged behind in one important area: blood pressure monitoring. There were no other options on the market for a long time than traditional cuffs. Even the first smartwatches, like the Omron one I tried out, were large and uncomfortable to wear. It was high time that companies realised the future of BP Monitoring lies in Photoplethysmography.
PPG is an optical technique that measures changes in blood volume within the microvascular bed. The technique works by shining light on the skin, and measuring the changes in light intensity caused by the blood flow. The blood flowing through the vessels absorbs and scatters light. This causes the intensity of reflected or transmitted lights to fluctuate. These fluctuations can then be analysed and used to obtain information. In various medical settings, photoplethysmography can be used to monitor heart rates, blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels.
After testing a 24-hour blood-pressure monitoring skin patch that uses PPG, I was eager to get my hands on an wearable device capable of reliably and comfortably monitoring this vital health metric. I had high expectations when I started the Aktiia Review.
What is it exactly?
The Aktiia bracelet is a lightweight, wearable device that continuously monitors blood pressure throughout the day. It does not require prolonged use of traditional cuffs.
What’s inside the box?
- The Aktiia Bracelet
- Charging station and cable
- A Aktiia initialization cuff with its charging cable
- User manuals
What is the process?
The bracelet measures blood pressure throughout the day using optical sensors and PPG. The data is transferred to a cloud server via the Aktiia App. Aktiia algorithms then estimate your bloodpressure using advanced processing of optical data. The device will measure blood pressure when the user is standing still. The graph will show you one average reading every two hours.
The bracelet installation was easy. The only preparation I needed was to take three readings of my blood pressure with the Aktiia cuff provided on the other arm. The app informed me that I should repeat the process to ensure the readings on the bracelet were consistent with those of the cuff.
Validation
It is the most important of all questions. Aktiia conducted a number of clinical studies to verify the accuracy and reliability of its continuous BP technology. The studies showed that Aktiia’s smartwatch provided BP readings comparable to those of a traditional cuff based BP monitor. The CE Mark has been granted for users between 21 and 65, except those who have contraindications resulting from certain health conditions.
Benefits
This device provides continuous monitoring, which is a great benefit. It can detect changes in BP not detected by intermittent cuff monitoring. It is especially useful for those with hypertension and other conditions that require regular BP measurement. The bracelet also measures blood pressure continuously, day and night. This provides a wealth of information that has never been seen before. It is also non-invasive, and it does not require constant cuff inflation. This can be uncomfortable for certain people.
Limitations
The Aktiia Smartwatch is not meant to replace the traditional cuff-based BP monitor, especially for diagnosing Hypertension. The Aktiia smartwatch is not suitable for those with certain medical conditions such as arrhythmias. Continuous BP monitoring in these situations may not be accurate. It does not take readings while exercising and isn’t water-resistant. It’s actually not a fitness monitor.
This device is limited to one function. This device does one thing extremely well. But I don’t know how many people would spend a few hundred dollars or euros to buy an additional bracelet to go with their existing wearable to get more information on their blood pressure. Their doctor might not trust the data.
Availability
The Aktiia Smartwatch is available in selected countries in Europe, including Switzerland, Austria, Germany France, Italy and the United Kingdom. In the future, the company intends to expand the availability of the smartwatch to other regions. As my testing in Hungary shows, once you have the device, you can download their app and use it in another country.
Summary
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 1.1 Billion people in the world have high blood pressure. This is a risk factor for strokes, heart disease and other health issues. This is also the leading cause of death and disability in the world.
The digital health revolution will be aided by a reliable wearable device that continuously monitors your blood pressure without the use of an uncomfortable cuff. Since I haven’t tried similar products yet, I can’t compare the Akttia to other products. However, this bracelet shows the potential of non-invasive BP monitors in the near future.
The Medical Futurist published the review of the Aktiia Bracelet, a wearable blood pressure monitor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths tend to emphasize lifestyle changes over prescription medications.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists are trained to provide individualized care based on each patient’s unique needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
- The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
What is the importance of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicines are very popular because they’re often cheaper and better for you than traditional treatments. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements aren’t controlled as pharmaceuticals so it is easy to get too high on vitamins. To make matters worse, there are alternative remedies that contain toxic chemicals.
What are 5 domains within integrative medicine, and how do they relate to each other?
Integrative medicine encompasses five domains: mind-body; nutrition; social determinants; lifestyle and prevention. These five areas are concerned with all aspects, including the physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Integrative medicine aims to provide a comprehensive approach to addressing overall health, wellness, and disease treatment. It encompasses both conventional medical treatments as well as complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga, meditation and massage therapy.
What is the distinction between alternative medicine (AM) and complementary medicine (CM)?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
While both forms of medicine are commonly used, many conventional doctors do not recommend them due to insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There isn’t consensus among health-care providers on the best way to incorporate CAM into patient treatment.
Many CAM methods are based on theories that have been developed over thousands of year. These therapies have had some clinical success over the past 20-years.
As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.
Some CAM techniques may also be beneficial in treating diseases like HIV/AIDS (AIDS), diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
Even though there are still gaps in our knowledge about the effectiveness of CAM, most experts agree that it can play a role in treating various ailments.
People are turning to CAM practitioners more often for relief from common diseases.
Despite this popularity, many people still have questions about “alternatives” and “complementary” medicine.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.
- They seek to avoid dangerous drugs and surgeries.
- They believe that natural remedies work better.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They want to spend less money.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
- They want to take control of their health.
- They seek a more healthy environment.
- They seek less stress in daily life.
- They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their children to have a better education.
- They want healthy food and good nutrition for their family.
- They seek safe, effective medicines.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
doi.org
webmd.com
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
How To
What does a holistic doctor do that a traditional doctor doesn’t?
A holistic doctor offers more services than a traditional physician, such as a nutritionist and massage therapist, as well as naturopaths, homeopaths, and naturopaths.
A holistic doctor treats patients holistically. Instead of treating symptoms, they examine the person and their environment. This helps them find the root causes and to take preventative steps and long-term care. Holistic doctors also use herbs and essential oils to treat illnesses. They also provide nutritional support and dietary advice to promote healthy living.
Holistic doctors also offer therapies such as acupuncture and reflexology, reiki or shiatsu, yoga, meditation or craniosacral treatment, as well as hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Andrea Koncz
Title: Finally A Good Wearable Blood Pressure Monitor: Aktiia Bracelet Review
Sourced From: medicalfuturist.com/finally-a-good-wearable-blood-pressure-monitor-aktiia-bracelet-review
Published Date: Tue, 02 May 2023 08:00:00 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Naturopathic Medicine and Holistic Medicine,
The two main types of medicine are conventional medicine and complementary/alternative medicine. Conventional medicine relies on drugs or surgery for its primary treatments. Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) uses natural therapies such as herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, and massage to treat illness and promote health. CAM should not be considered as a replacement for traditional treatment. Instead, CAM can help patients take control of their health by helping them choose the best option.
On the other hand, naturopathy is used to complement conventional medical practices. It treats the whole person, including mind and soul. There are many forms and types of naturopathy.
It is important to note that some CAM modalities overlap with conventional medicine. Naturopaths and doctors can prescribe herbal remedies. However, naturopaths tend to emphasize lifestyle changes over prescription medications.
Naturopathy can be called “complementary” when it is used in combination with conventional medicine. Naturopaths may prescribe medication when needed.
There are some differences in naturopathic medicine from other CAM modalities.
- Naturopaths rarely prescribe medication.
- Naturopaths can refer patients to specialists and work with their family physician.
- Naturopathic doctors are licensed by the provincial licensing boards. CAM practitioners, however, are self-regulated.
- Naturopathy emphasizes prevention and wellness while providing education about diet and exercise.
- Naturopaths place a strong emphasis on lifestyle factors. These include nutrition, exercise, stress management, sleep, nutrition, and mental well being.
- Naturopharmacists are specialists in the use and treatment of specific conditions using botanicals and minerals.
- Naturopodists are trained to provide individualized care based on each patient’s unique needs.
- The College of Naturopathic Physicians of Ontario issues licenses for Naturopaths.
- The provincial regulatory bodies issue licenses to naturopatrists.
- The Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors has registered Naturopaticians.
- Naturotherapists are licensed by the College of Naturopaths of British Columbia.
- The United States National Board of Medical Examiners accredits Naturobiotic therapists.
- The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency grants licenses to homeopaths.
- The term “holistic” refers to the belief that all aspects of life – physical, emotional, spiritual, and social – should be considered when making decisions about one’s health. Holistic doctors will look at all of these aspects rather than just one.
What is the importance of alternative medicine?
Alternative medicines are very popular because they’re often cheaper and better for you than traditional treatments. Unfortunately, many patients have died as a result of side effects like allergic reactions. Other therapies might not work.
Alternate medicines can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know enough to choose the best ones. Vitamin supplements aren’t controlled as pharmaceuticals so it is easy to get too high on vitamins. To make matters worse, there are alternative remedies that contain toxic chemicals.
What are 5 domains within integrative medicine, and how do they relate to each other?
Integrative medicine encompasses five domains: mind-body; nutrition; social determinants; lifestyle and prevention. These five areas are concerned with all aspects, including the physical, mental and spiritual well-being.
Integrative medicine aims to provide a comprehensive approach to addressing overall health, wellness, and disease treatment. It encompasses both conventional medical treatments as well as complementary therapies like acupuncture and yoga, meditation and massage therapy.
What is the distinction between alternative medicine (AM) and complementary medicine (CM)?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. You can find examples of acupuncture as homeopathy, aromatherapy or reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and even naturopathy. Complementary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional treatment. They can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
While both forms of medicine are commonly used, many conventional doctors do not recommend them due to insufficient evidence or safety concerns.
There isn’t consensus among health-care providers on the best way to incorporate CAM into patient treatment.
Many CAM methods are based on theories that have been developed over thousands of year. These therapies have had some clinical success over the past 20-years.
As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.
Some CAM techniques may also be beneficial in treating diseases like HIV/AIDS (AIDS), diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
Even though there are still gaps in our knowledge about the effectiveness of CAM, most experts agree that it can play a role in treating various ailments.
People are turning to CAM practitioners more often for relief from common diseases.
Despite this popularity, many people still have questions about “alternatives” and “complementary” medicine.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.
- They seek to avoid dangerous drugs and surgeries.
- They believe that natural remedies work better.
- They prefer noninvasive treatments.
- They want to spend less money.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They want greater control over their own healthcare decisions.
- They want to take control of their health.
- They seek a more healthy environment.
- They seek less stress in daily life.
- They want greater freedom in choosing their doctors and their healthcare plans.
- They want their children to have a better education.
- They want healthy food and good nutrition for their family.
- They seek safe, effective medicines.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- A sociological perspective on the rise and fall of complementary and alternate medicine – PubMed
- PubMed: Holistic medicine.
doi.org
webmd.com
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING AND TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE – PubMed
- PubMed. The Effect of Foot reflexology on Hospital Anxiety, Depression and Suffering in Older Women: A Randomized Controlled Test – PubMed
How To
What does a holistic doctor do that a traditional doctor doesn’t?
A holistic doctor offers more services than a traditional physician, such as a nutritionist and massage therapist, as well as naturopaths, homeopaths, and naturopaths.
A holistic doctor treats patients holistically. Instead of treating symptoms, they examine the person and their environment. This helps them find the root causes and to take preventative steps and long-term care. Holistic doctors also use herbs and essential oils to treat illnesses. They also provide nutritional support and dietary advice to promote healthy living.
Holistic doctors also offer therapies such as acupuncture and reflexology, reiki or shiatsu, yoga, meditation or craniosacral treatment, as well as hypnotherapy and hypnotherapy.
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