At the launch of the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple introduced a new health feature on the watch: sleep apnea detection. This functionality is still awaiting approval by different organizations for global rollout and will also reach previous models of the Apple Watch.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is the most common breathing disorder during sleep.It affects 4% of adults. It is also known as hypersomnia syndrome or sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome.

This disorder is characterized by: recurrent episodes of upper airway obstruction or collapse During rest caused by narrowing, obstruction or loss of rigidity of the airways. Sleep apnea involves the temporary cessation of breathing for more than ten seconds, resulting in a decrease in oxygen levels and an increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood, as well as minor, usually subconscious awakenings (arousals).

Usually, after these awakenings, the affected person regains normal breathing until the next episode. The duration of these respiratory pauses varies from a few seconds to a few minutes. 5 to 30 times per hourIt is important to remember that most people experience brief episodes of apnea during sleep without major consequences.

Patients diagnosed with sleep apnea may experience complications and health problems if the disorder is severe. The main consequences include: excessive sleepiness, respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disorders, as well as psychological and intellectual problems.

How does sleep apnea detection work on Apple Watch?

In the Health app we will now find references to a new category called . respiratory disordersWhile one of the symptoms of sleep apnea is reduced blood oxygen levels, it appears that the Apple Watch does not use this sensor to detect sleep apnea.

Apple states: Apple Watch uses a built-in accelerometer to detect small movements in the wrist that are associated with disruptions to normal breathing patterns during sleep. Apple Watch will collect data for 30 days and then analyze it to alert users if they have signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea.

Apple Watch now detects sleep apnea

You can see these readings in the section. Respiratory disorders This data from the Health app can be: share with a doctor For information about next steps for diagnosing and treating sleep apnea.

Which Apple Watch models detect sleep apnea

This new health function is available on select models, like other functions such as the Apple Watch electrocardiogram or atrial fibrillation. Although it will be available with the Apple Watch Series 10, it will also be available on previous models with watchOS 11:

• Apple Watch Series 10
• Apple Watch Series 9
• Apple Watch Ultra2

Apple continues to implement health improvements Apple Watch that can help many users around the world. Apple Watch is not a medical device, but it can help detect some diseases, such as sleep apnea, early. This way, doctors can diagnose and determine treatment before the condition worsens.

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