Samsung has announced that its Sleep Apnea feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch has received FDA approval in the USA. Samsung has said that this is the first of its kind to receive the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The sleep apnea feature enables users over the age of 22 who have not been diagnosed with sleep apnea to detect signs of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) over a two-night monitoring period, a common and chronic sleep condition that often goes undiagnosed and untreated. To utilize the feature, users can simply track their sleep twice for more than four hours within a ten-day period.
Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
OSA causes a person to stop breathing while sleeping and can often result in disruptions in oxygen supply, decreased sleep quality, and increased daytime fatigue. Untreated sleep apnea can compound the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia, and stroke. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), roughly 25% of men and 10% of women in the U.S. experience OSA. The new feature on the Samsung Health Monitor app is expected to help more people proactively detect moderate or severe forms of OSA, and as a result of the detection seek medical care to reduce the possibility of health-related complications.
OSA is a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep. These episodes can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur multiple times per hour. The condition not only affects the quality of sleep but also has significant health implications. For instance, individuals with untreated OSA are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, experiencing cognitive decline, and suffering from depression.
How the Samsung Galaxy Watch Detects Sleep Apnea
The Samsung Galaxy Watch uses advanced sensors and algorithms to monitor the user’s sleep patterns. By analyzing the user’s heart rate, breathing, and movement, the watch can detect irregularities that may indicate the presence of OSA. The data collected over the two-night monitoring period is then analyzed to determine if the user shows signs of moderate to severe OSA.
This innovative feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who may not realize they have sleep apnea. Many people with OSA are unaware of their condition because the symptoms, such as loud snoring and gasping for air during sleep, often go unnoticed. By providing an accessible and non-invasive way to detect OSA, the Samsung Galaxy Watch can help users take the first step towards diagnosis and treatment.
To utilize the feature, users can simply track their sleep twice for more than four hours within a ten-day period. This flexibility allows users to choose nights that best represent their typical sleep patterns, ensuring accurate results.
The introduction of the sleep apnea detection feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch is a significant advancement in wearable health technology. It underscores the potential of smartwatches to go beyond fitness tracking and play a crucial role in monitoring and managing health conditions. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative health features integrated into wearable devices.
You can find out more information about the Sleep Apnea feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch over at the Samsung website at the link below.
Source Samsung
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
