Fitbit ECG Apps Instruction Manual
- June 4, 2024
- Fitbit
Table of Contents
Fitbit ECG App Instructions for Use
Version AF
Glossary
A
Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heart rhythm, caused when
the upper chambers of the heart beat out of rhythm.
E
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of
your heart.
F
Fitbit wrist-worn product
Fitbit wrist-worn products include Fitbit smartwatches and Fitbit trackers.
H
Heart rate
Your heart rate is the number of times your heart contracts (beats) in a
minute. It’s often expressed as beats per minute (bpm).
N
Normal sinus rhythm
A normal sinus rhythm is a normal heart rhythm.
Indications for Use
*US:**
The Fitbit ECG app is a software-only mobile medical application intended for
use with Fitbit wrist-wearable products to create, record, store, transfer,
and display a single-channel electrocardiogram (ECG) qualitatively similar to
a Lead I ECG. The Fitbit ECG app determines the presence of atrial
fibrillation (AFib) or sinus rhythm on a classifiable waveform. The AFib
detection function is not recommended for people with other known arrhythmias.
The Fitbit ECG app is intended for over-the-counter (OTC) use. The ECG data
displayed by the app is intended for informational use only. Don’t interpret
or take clinical action based on the device output without consulting a
qualified healthcare professional. The ECG waveform is meant to supplement
rhythm classification for the purposes of discriminating AFib from normal
sinus rhythm. It’s not intended to replace traditional methods of diagnosis or
treatment. The Fitbit ECG app is not intended for use by people under 22 years
old.
Non-US (EU/EEA/UK):*
The Fitbit ECG app is intended to allow the user to record a waveform similar
to a single-lead ECG that is then classified as sinus rhythm or atrial
fibrillation (AFib) on a classifiable waveform. The ECG and rhythm
classification is not recommended for users with other known arrhythmias.
Fitbit ECG app is intended for home use by laypeople aged 22 years and over.
US Indications for Use applies to the United States, India, and the following US territories: American Samoa, Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands
**Non-US Indications for Use applies to the following countries:
EU countries where the Fitbit ECG app is available: Germany, Ireland, Spain,
France, Netherlands, Sweden, Italy, Belgium, Poland, Austria, Czech Republic,
Portugal, Romania, and Luxembourg. This user manual is available on
help.fitbit.com in the local languages of the
countries listed above.
Fitbit ECG app is available in the United Kingdom and other non-EU countries
including Switzerland, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Norway, Chile,
Singapore, and Australia. This user manual is available on
help.fitbit.com in the local languages of the
countries listed above.
Additional countries will be added as regulatory clearance is obtained.
Note that this product is not regulated as a medical device in the following
countries/regions: Hong Kong
Product Description
The Fitbit ECG software-only medical application is used to create and record
an ECG, similar to a single-lead ECG, when you open the Fitbit ECG app, follow
the instructions, and place 2 fingers on the electrical sensors. The Fitbit
ECG app is qualitatively similar to a Lead I ECG in that it can be used to
discriminate between AFib and normal sinus rhythm; it is not intended for
diagnostic purposes. The app is a spot check that analyzes the recording and
presents the results. The ECG data can be used for non-clinical applications,
such as providing an estimate of your heart rate. The ECG recording is
temporarily stored in the ECG app on your Fitbit wrist-worn product until the
data syncs to your account; you’re then able to view your results in the
Fitbit app on your phone or tablet.
You can find the Fitbit ECG app data in the Heart Rhythm Assessment tile
within the Health Assessments section of the Fitbit app. This tile is also
used for onboarding, displaying past results, exporting a report, and other
non-medical device data.
Cautions
The feature has not been tested for and is not intended for use in people
under 22 years of age or those who have a pacemaker, internal defibrillator,
or another cardiac device.
Expectations
How the Fitbit ECG app works
The rhythm your heart makes can be detected using the electrical sensors on
your Fitbit wrist-worn product. This data is analyzed for signs of AFib, an
irregular heart rhythm.
The electrical sensors are on the back of the Fitbit wrist-worn product and on
the metal frame around the face. When these sensors are in contact with your
skin and the Fitbit ECG app is open, they record the electrical signals from
your heart. Normally, the heart’s upper and lower chambers work together. When
the heart is in AFib, the upper chambers contract irregularly, increasing the
risk of heart attack, blood clots, stroke, and other heart conditions.
With AFib, the heart may not always beat irregularly, making it hard to
detect. While this assessment can’t diagnose AFib, you can use it right from
your wrist. Your results can help you have a better conversation with your
doctor.
Results you might see
Normal Sinus Rhythm
Your heart rhythm appears normal. It doesn’t show signs of AFib or an
irregular heart rhythm.
Atrial Fibrillation
Your heart rhythm shows signs of AFib, an irregular heart rhythm. AFib can
have serious health effects. You should contact your doctor.
Inconclusive
If your heart rate is over 120 bpm or under 50 bpm, the Fitbit ECG app can’t
assess your heart rhythm.
There are many possible reasons for getting an inconclusive result, but common
causes are moving too much during the assessment, not resting your hands on a
table, or other arrythmia.
For more information, see “Troubleshooting” on page 12.
General Warnings and Precautions
DO NOT change your medication without first speaking to your doctor. The
results of the Fitbit ECG app may not be accurate in people who take
medication or substances that affect heart rate or blood flow.
DO NOT use this product in lieu of the treatment prescribed by your doctor.
Palpitations and shortness of breath can be symptoms of AFib, but some people
don’t have any symptoms. AFib is treatable, so the earlier you detect it, the
sooner you and your doctor can do something about it.
If you have any symptoms related to AFib or have concerns, talk to your
doctor. Erroneous false negative or false positive results due to the device
or user error may occur. A person with a false negative result could delay
seeking medical care and have prolonged symptoms of AFib. A person with a
false positive result could have unnecessary additional testing or make
inappropriate behavioral or physical changes. For more information on the
accuracy of the Fitbit ECG app, see “Clinical Study” on page 14.
DO NOT use for clinical diagnosis of AFib.
DO NOT use for continuous, real-time or self-monitoring of heart rhythm.
This product CAN NOT detect heart attack, blood clots, stroke, or other heart
conditions.
The assessment carried out by this product is NOT a diagnosis.
This product has NOT been tested on individuals who are pregnant.
This product is NOT intended for use in a clinical setting.
DO NOT interpret or take clinical action solely based on the assessment result
without consultation of a qualified healthcare professional.
DO NOT take an ECG reading when your Fitbit wrist-worn product is outside the
operational temperature or humidity range indicated in the user manual for
that device.
DO NOT take a reading while submerged in water.
With AFib, your heart may not always beat irregularly, making it challenging
to detect even in the doctor’s office.
Wear your Fitbit wrist-worn product as instructed.
NOTE: The Fitbit ECG app can only be used on compatible Fitbit wrist-worn
products that have been paired to your account. For more information on Fitbit
wrist-worn products compatible with the Fitbit ECG app, see
help.fitbit.com.
For security purposes, it’s recommended that you maintain control and
possession of your compatible consumer wrist-worn product and mobile devices
to prevent unauthorized access to your health data. Refer to the
manufacturer’s instructions for your mobile device to enable passcode
functionality to deter unauthorized access. Additionally, secure your Fitbit
account with a strong password. For more information, see
help.fitbit.com. If available on your consumer’s
wrist-worn product, we recommend that you enable device lock. For more
information, see help.fitbit.com.
If you feel like this product is in violation of any laws, or is threatening
to an individual, please report it to your local health authority.
Operating Instructions
Install the Fitbit ECG app
If the Fitbit ECG app isn’t already installed on your Fitbit wrist-worn
product, download it from the Fitbit Gallery. For more information on the
availability of the Fitbit ECG app in your region, see
fitbit.com/ecg.
The Fitbit ECG App can only be used on compatible Fitbit wrist-worn products
that have been paired to your account. The Fitbit ECG App is currently
available on Fitbit Sense (running Fitbit OS 5.0+) and Fitbit Charge 5
(running CU 1.2+). For more information, see
help.fitbit.com.
Take the assessment
Before you take your first reading, review the Heart Rhythm Assessment
introduction:
- Open the Fitbit app on your phone or tablet, and log in to your Fitbit account if you haven’t already done so.
- From the Discover tab in the Fitbit app, tap Health Assessments & Reports > Heart Rhythm Assessment (ECG) and follow the instructions. After you complete the Heart Rhythm Assessment introduction, you can take an ECG reading.
To take an ECG reading:
- Wear your Fitbit wrist-worn product snugly, but with enough room for comfort. It should sit a finger’s width above your wrist bone. For more information, see help.fitbit.com.
- Sit down and open the ECG app on your Fitbit wrist-worn product.
- Follow the instructions on your Fitbit wrist-worn product to start the assessment.
- Put your index finger and thumb on your Fitbit wrist-worn product as shown on the screen. Continue to hold the contact points until the countdown is complete.
- When your results appear, swipe up to see the full report.
Cancel the assessment
To cancel the assessment at any time, press the button on Fitbit Sense or
swipe right on Fitbit Charge 5. A result is only provided after completing the
30-second ECG reading and data analysis. If you cancel the assessment prior to
completion, a result won’t be available.
See your results
After you complete the Heart Rhythm Assessment and the data is analyzed, you
see one of the following results:
- Normal sinus rhythm: Your heart rhythm appears normal. Tap Learn more for more information or tap Done to exit the assessment.
- Atrial fibrillation: Your heart rhythm shows signs of AFib. You should contact your doctor. Tap Learn more for more information or tap Done to exit the assessment.
- Inconclusive: Your heart rate was too low, too high, or the Fitbit ECG app couldn’t get a good reading. Tap Retake to try again, or tap Done to exit the assessment. For more information on why you might receive this result, see “Troubleshooting” on the next page.
When you open the Fitbit app, your results transfer from your Fitbit wrist- worn product to the Fitbit app, and can be viewed on your phone or tablet. To see your results at a later time, such as during an appointment with your healthcare provider:
- From the Discover tab in the Fitbit app, tap Health Assessments & Reports >Heart Rhythm Assessment.
- Tap View Results to see a list of all your previous results.
- Tap any of the previous results to view the details. The results are displayed with the date and time that they were taken on the compatible Fitbit wristworn product. Within each result, tap Export a PDF for your doctor to download the report. You’ll receive a notification when your report is ready. We recommend using the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the report.
See help.fitbit.com for more information on the
Heart Rhythm Assessment.
Delete your results
- From the Discover tab in the Fitbit app, tap Health Assessments & Reports > Heart Rhythm Assessment.
- Tap View Results to see a list of all your previous results.
- Tap the results you want to delete.
Delete and Restore the Fitbit ECG app
To remove the Fitbit ECG app:
- In the Fitbit app on your phone or tablet, tap the Today tab for your profile picture and your Fitbit wrist-worn product image.
- Tap Gallery.
- In the list of apps installed on your watch, find the Fitbit ECG app and tap it.
- Tap Uninstall.
You can reinstall the app at any time from the Fitbit Gallery. For more information on how to delete, install, and manage apps, see help.fitbit.com.
Troubleshooting
There are 3 types of inconclusive results you might receive after taking the
assessment:
Inconclusive: High heart rate
If your heart rate is over 120 bpm, the Fitbit ECG app can’t assess your heart
rhythm. Heart rate can be high for many reasons, such as:
- Recent exercise
- Stress
- Nervousness
- Alcohol
- Dehydration
- Infection
- AFib, or another arrhythmia
Learn more from the American Heart Association or by visiting the website of the European Society of Cardiology [https://www.escardio.org/].
Inconclusive: Low heart rate
If your heart rate is under 50 bpm, the Fitbit ECG app can’t assess your heart
rhythm. Heart rate can be low for many reasons, such as:
- Taking certain medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers
- Having excellent aerobic fitness
- Other arrhythmia
Learn more from the American Heart Association or by visiting the website of the European Society of Cardiology [https://www.escardio.org/].
Inconclusive: Didn’t get a good reading
There are many possible reasons for getting an inconclusive result, but common
causes are:
-
Moving too much during the assessment
-
Not resting your hands on a table
-
Other arrhythmia
If the Fitbit ECG app couldn’t get a good reading, try the following troubleshooting tips: -
Make sure you’re sitting down and relaxed.
-
Rest your arms on a table while you take the assessment and avoid moving.
-
Check that your Fitbit wrist-worn product is on the wrist you selected when you started the assessment.
-
Keep your index finger and thumb on your Fitbit wrist-worn product for the duration of the assessment.
-
Check the fit of your Fitbit wrist-worn product. It should feel comfortably secure, not too loose or too tight. Wear it a finger’s width above your wrist bone. For more information, see help.fitbit.com.
-
Move away from other electronics to prevent interference.
-
Make sure your Fitbit wrist-worn product and wrist are clean and dry. Water or sweat can interfere with the reading. If you recently washed your hands, went swimming, showered, or perspired, clean and dry your Fitbit wrist-worn product. See fitbit.com/productcare for wear and care instructions.
Retake the assessment to try again. If you get an inconclusive result
repeatedly, or
If you’re not feeling well, talk to your healthcare provider.
For troubleshooting syncing, see help.fitbit.com. For troubleshooting heart-
rate tracking, see help.fitbit.com.
Clinical Study
A clinical study was performed to validate the Fitbit ECG software algorithm’s
ability to classify cardiac rhythms as atrial fibrillation (AFib) and sinus
rhythm (SR) from a waveform similar to a Lead I ECG, and to confirm the
software’s ability to produce a waveform similar to Lead I of a 12-lead ECG.
472 subjects, with and without a known diagnosis of AFib, were recruited and
enrolled to participate across 9 US sites. Eligible subjects underwent a
10-second screening using a 12-lead ECG. Subjects with a known history of AFib
were screened for AFib by a single qualified physician and assigned to the
AFib cohort. Subjects without a known history of AFib were screened for SR and
assigned to the SR cohort.
Subsequently, 440 subjects underwent a simultaneous 30-second 12-lead ECG and
Fitbit ECG App test. The Fitbit ECG App software algorithm was able to
correctly identify people with AFib 98.7% of the time and correctly identify
people with SR 100% of the time.
When compared qualitatively, i.e. when the waveforms from the 12-lead ECG and
Fitbit ECG App were visually compared to classify AFib and SR, the Fitbit ECG
App’s single lead waveform was deemed similar to the Lead I of a 12-Lead ECG
waveform overall for 95.0% of the time.
When compared quantitatively, i.e. when the R-wave amplitudes were compared
between the 12-lead ECG and Fitbit ECG App, the Fitbit ECG R-wave amplitudes
were on average 2.4mm larger than the reference 12-lead R-wave peaks. This is
due to the placement of the 12-lead ECG on the torso of the subject as opposed
to their wrist during the clinical study.
No adverse events were observed during the clinical study.
Disease and Self-care Information
What is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a type of irregular heart rhythm in the upper
chambers of the heart (the atria). Normally, the upper chambers contract
regularly to move blood into the lower chambers. With AFib, the upper chambers
contract irregularly, causing some blood to move slowly in the upper chambers.
This slow-moving blood can clot, which raises the risk for stroke and heart-
related issues.
Signs that you may have atrial fibrillation
Some people with AFib don’t have any symptoms, but others may experience:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Heart palpitations
- Lightheadedness
- Extreme fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
Learn more from the CDC or by visiting the website of the European Society of Cardiology [https://www.escardio.org/].
Lifestyle and other factors
Risk factors for AFib include:
- Advanced age
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- European ancestry
- Diabetes
- Heart failure
- Ischemic heart disease
- Hyperthyroidism
- Chronic kidney disease
- Heavy alcohol use
- Enlargement of the chambers on the left side of the heart
Learn more from the CDC or by visiting the website of the European Society of Cardiology [https://www.escardio.org/].
Potential treatment options
Consult your healthcare provider before making major lifestyle changes or
changes to your medication. Potential treatment options include:
- Medication
- Surgery
- Lifestyle changes
Learn more from the CDC or by visiting the website of the European Society of Cardiology [https://www.escardio.org/].
Information for Physicians
A physician’s guide is available. Visit help.fitbit.com or call 877-623-4997.
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User Assistance Information
This document is for SKU: FB 603, version 2.0 or higher.
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References
- Irregular Rhythm
- Fitbit Wear & Care
- help.fitbit.com
- Fitbit Official Site for Activity Trackers & More
- Fitbit Official Site for Activity Trackers & More
- help.fitbit.com/
- How do I change or reset my Fitbit password?
- What factors can affect my heart-rate reading on my Fitbit device?
- Why won't my Fitbit device sync?
- How do I wear my Fitbit device?
- How do I install and manage apps on my Fitbit device?
- How do I use the device lock on my Fitbit device?
- What is the Fitbit ECG app?
- Fitbit MyHelp
- Fitbit MyHelp
- Atrial Fibrillation | cdc.gov
- European Society of Cardiology
- Irregular Rhythm
- Fitbit Legal: Trademark List
- Fitbit Wear & Care
- Fitbit Legal: Terms of Service
- Tachycardia: Fast Heart Rate | American Heart Association
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