QALY | What Ectopic Atrial Rhythm Looks Like on Your Watch ECG

Key Takeaways

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Ectopic atrial rhythms occur when the electrical impulses that control the beat of your heart’s upper heart chambers are generated in the wrong area. This results in P waves on the ECG that are different from the normal appearance of P waves. The heart rate usually remains at less than 100 beats per minute.

How to Spot Ectopic Atrial Rhythm on Your Watch ECG

The following are characteristics of ectopic atrial rhythm:

‍Rate: Normal (<100 bpm)‍
Rhythm: Irregular‍
P Wave: Premature, differ in size and shape‍
PR Interval: Variable‍
QRS: Normal (0.08-0.12 sec)
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With a smartwatch single-lead ECG, you may notice early beats that cause three or more consecutive heartbeats to interrupt the underlying rhythm. It is better to visit your heart doctor for further evaluation, which includes 12 Lead ECG.

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Example of Ectopic Atrial Rhythm caught on Apple Watch

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Example of Ectopic Atrial Rhythm recorded on Apple Watch ECG, reviewed by QALY — Example of Apple Watch ECG with 7 episodes of Ectopic Atrial Rhythm and 1 PVC couplet between 17s and 18s.

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Atrial Rhytms recorded on Fitbit watch, reviewed by QALY — Example of Ectopic Atrial Rhytms recorded on Fitbit watch.

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Common Symptoms of Ectopic Atrial Rhythm

Ectopic atrial rhythm can happen without symptoms, especially when it happens only for short periods. However, common symptoms include:

Heart palpitations
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting
Shortness of breath

Any Cause for Concern?

For most people, this condition only happens for short periods. It’s not dangerous, and you shouldn’t experience any long-term problems from it. However, when it happens for long periods, it can cause problems if you wait too long to get medical care.

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As always, if you show signs of a potential ectopic atrial rhythm, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to rule out the presence of harmful underlying conditions.

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Still Not Sure How to Spot Ectopic Atrial Rhythm on Your Watch ECG?

Your smartwatch can be your partner in looking after your heart. If you’re concerned about ectopic atrial rhythm, get your smartwatch ECGs analyzed by experts within minutes on the QALY app: iOS and Android.

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