URGENT UPDATE: A smartwatch has been credited with saving a life after a user experienced alarming heart rate spikes, leading to an emergency call to triple-zero. The incident highlights the critical role of technology in health monitoring, especially for individuals with chronic conditions.
In a shocking turn of events, a woman who had been battling autoimmune disease, specifically lupus, faced a medical crisis when her heart rate surged to 189 beats per minute. This occurred shortly after she was discharged from the hospital, where she had been treated for pneumonia and a collapsed lung. The alarming readings from her smartwatch prompted her to call for emergency assistance, ultimately leading to her admission to the hospital for the 14th time in two years.
“I was making lunch when I felt dizzy and weak. My smartwatch showed my heart rate at 145 BPM, and I knew it was time to act,” she recounted. Within moments, she was in an ambulance, shaking and shivering with a fever of around 40°C.
At the hospital, medical staff conducted immediate assessments, revealing that she was suffering from septic shock, a severe complication of her existing health issues. “If you have a choice, please let me go, Mum — I can’t do this anymore,” she told her mother during the harrowing experience, underscoring the emotional toll of her health struggles.
The woman credits her smartwatch for providing crucial health data that allowed her to recognize a life-threatening situation. “Heeding the smartwatch’s warning saved my life,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of technology in managing chronic health conditions.
Today, she utilizes various smart devices as safety measures, including smart speakers that provide both entertainment and emergency assistance in her home. “Showering used to be a very vulnerable part of the day, but now I have peace of mind,” she explained, highlighting how technology has empowered her to navigate her health challenges more safely.
As discussions about the impact of technology on our lives continue, she advocates for the integration of tech in daily routines. “Tech is not inherently good, nor evil — it’s about how we choose to use it,” she concluded.
This story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential life-saving capabilities of modern technology, especially for those managing chronic illnesses. Readers interested in mental health support can reach out to Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636 or visit beyondblue.org.au. For more insights on health and relationships, check out the Insightful podcast series hosted by Kumi Taguchi, available on platforms like Spotify and the SBS Audio App.
