Kardia, arrhythmias - which model?

[simonineaston]

…just got back from my gp, who recommended using a Kardia to capture various intermittent heart oddities - trouble is, I see there’s more than 1 model, eg single or six lead. Do you, dear reader, have any comments on the subject of which one to buy that’ll be the best fit for recording these oddities & then sending the data to the local cardiology dept (at Bristol’s BRI)?
I already have an Apple watch however it’s the 2nd gen SE which I understand, doesn't have the necessary heart monitoring features to capture info suitable for use by our health service.
And lastly, I’ve got to say these health issues are a proper challenge when it comes to spelling them right - first “Dupuytren’s fasciectomy” - I ask you! That second u - what's that all about? Now “arrhythmias”…

[axel_knutt]

When I asked "are your Kardia & Kardia 6L devices able to detect conditions other than atrial fibrillation", Alivecor told me that:

"The Kardia and Kardia 6L devices are designed to detect atrial fibrillation (AF). Besides AF, bradycardia (slow heart rate), tachycardia (fast heart rate), and normal sinus rhythm."

[Jdsk]

...
Do you, dear reader, have any comments on the subject of which one to buy that’ll be the best fit for recording these oddities & then sending the data to the local cardiology dept (at Bristol’s BRI)?
...

I'd ask the cardiologist directly.

(And I'd be very interested in how they are prepared to accept the data.)

Jonathan

[simonineaston]

Thanks J. As the devices are so readily available, it makes sense to defer the decision over which to buy until I’ve had a chance to talk to the local cardiologist - I’ll keep you posted
The gp I saw this morning was very positive about the device, but only in the broadest terms, simply saying that the cardio dept “was able to use data from them” but without being any more specific. She also pointed out the obvious benefits of not having to wait for an ambulatory monitor and of having one’s own to hand to use whenever/wherever one experienced an episode of oddities.

[Jdsk]

It's all at a very interesting technological stage: the devices for this and much else are out there and they have data interfaces... but the appropriate standards aren't clear and agreed, and neither is the responsibility for what should happen when a patient turns up with some findings from a device that the practitioner doesn't know anything about (not your situation).

Jonathan

[axel_knutt]

the cardio dept “was able to use data from them”

The hospital here loans them out, but you have to give them the password so that they can log on themselves. I also asked Alivecor how long they will record continuously for, and they avoided the question, so I assume they're no good to leave running whilst you're asleep. IME single lead ECGs give them enough room to dismiss the result if they want to.

[Jezrant]

…just got back from my gp, who recommended using a Kardia to capture various intermittent heart oddities - trouble is, I see there’s more than 1 model, eg single or six lead. Do you, dear reader, have any comments on the subject of which one to buy that’ll be the best fit for recording these oddities & then sending the data to the local cardiology dept (at Bristol’s BRI)?

Assuming you don’t have an imminent appointment with a cardiologist, I’d ask that GP.

[Paulatic]

Upgrade your Apple Watch sounds like a simpler option.

[brianleach]

I've been using the single lead model since 2016.

I still use it occasionally even though the Fitbit Charge also has an ECG feature.

My cardiologist, with whom I have an annual check up, was not particularly impressed when I showed him a print out I had downloaded but I find it useful just to give me an indication.

I have AF permanently now so I like to just check periodically. After using one for a while you get to know your own "normal" rhythm!

[bluespeeder]

We recently bought the 6 lead model which didnt seem to be much more expensive and was £20 off in the black friday sale. It was predominately for me as I have flutters which have been getting more frequent recently although nothing has been detected. I had a GP ECG about 18 months back and a holter test about 5 years ago, both clear. As the flutters are very infrequent I doubt this device will be able to capture anything.
My wife has also tried it and I have noticed that for her some of the spikes are inverted on lead II and III indicating left axis deviation, so I will get her to mention this to her GP on the next visit. This would not have been spotted by the 1 lead device.
I am slightly disappointed that the device will only highlight certain conditions (high pulse, low pulse or AF) but maybe this is a legal thing. It does mean to check for anything else you need to do some research.
I would like to point out I am not medically qualified (except a couple of first aid courses, now expired) so all my assesments are based on internet research.