KardiaMobile is a device that allows you to safely and easily measure your heart’s activity in the comfort ofyour home. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions for this personal EKG monitor:
What is KardiaMobile?
Compatible with most smartphones, the KardiaMobile is a clinical gradepersonal EKG (electrocardiogram) monitor. It can capture an EKG in 30 seconds anywhere, anytime. Thedevice allows you to store your EKGs on your phone as well as email your EKG to your doctor with the pressof a button.
Who invented KardiaMobile?
David E. Albert, MD, is a physician, inventor and serial entrepreneur who has developed numerous innovativemedical products, including the KardiaMobile. Dr. Albert worked as the chief scientist of GE Cardiologybefore departing in 2004 to found several technology companies, including AliveCor, the maker ofKardiaMobile.
Is KardiaMobile FDA approved?
Yes! The KardiaMobile and the KardiaMobile 6L are both cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration(FDA). You can findits listing on the FDA's website.
What can Kardia Detect?
The KardiaMobile can detect Atrial Fibrillation (quivering or irregular heartbeat, often abbreviated toAFib), Bradycardia (a heart rate that’s too slow), Tachycardia (a condition that makes your heart beat morethan 100 times per minute, out of proportion with exertion or activity) or normal heart rhythm.
Can Kardia Detect a Heart Attack?
While the KardiaMobile can detect conditions and symptoms that increase your risk for a heart attack, it can’t detect or diagnose a heart attack and shouldn’t be relied upon to do so. If you think you might be having a heart attack, you should go to your doctor immediately. Learn more about the warning signs of a heart attack from the American Heart Association.
How Much Does Kardia Cost Per Month?
The KardiaMobile requires a one-time purchase of $99, while the KardiaMobile 6L is a one-time purchase of$149.99 (currently available for pre-order). If you’d like to add on the optional Premium Protection Plan(which includes Device Replacement, Cloud Storage and Security, Personalized Heart Health Report andMedication Tracking), that costs $9.99/month or $99/year. If you get the KardiaBand (compatible with theApple Watch), that requires the purchase of the Premium Membership, but Premium is optional for theKardiaMobile and the KardiaMobile 6L.
Is KardiaMobile Covered by Medicare?
KardiaMobile products are not currently covered by insurance, including Medicare. However, they can be paidfor using a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA) or Health Reimbursem*nt Account(HRA).
How Do I Set Up KardiaMobile?
First, download the Kardia app and install it on your smartphone. Launch the app and create your account. Nowit’s time to take your first EKG. Make sure your phone is unplugged from power and accessories. Stay awayfrom anything that might cause interference, like a computer. If you wear hearing aids, turn them off. Tap“record your first EKG” on the homescreen of the mobile app. If it prompts you to allow the Kardia app toaccess your microphone, select “grant access.” Next, select KardiaMobile from the device menu and lay yourphone and the KardiaMobile device near each other on a table. Lightly place your fingers on the pads andhold steady for 30 seconds while you watch the countdown. That’s all it takes!
What Triggers AFib?
Atrial fibrillation is usually triggered by abnormalities in and/or damage to the heart’s structure. Possiblecauses include (but are not limited to):
- High blood pressure
- Heart attacks
- Coronary artery disease
- Abnormal heart valves
- Congenital heart defects
- Previous heart surgery
- Exposure to stimulants
- Overactive thyroid gland
- And more
Can Heart Rate Monitors Detect AFib?
Depending on the quality and the sensitivity of the device, some heart rate monitors can detect the irregularheartbeat that is the hallmark of atrial fibrillation. However, not all heart rate monitors and fitnesstrackers on the market are as accurate as the KardiaMobile, so do your research before making a purchase.
How Do You Check for AFib at Home?
To test for atrial fibrillation at home, make sure that you have been sitting down for at least five minutesso that your pulse isn’t artificially elevated from exertion. Take an EKG reading or measure your pulse forone minute and then compare it to average pulse ranges for yourage. If you notice any palpitations, skipped heartbeats, thuds or thumps or a weak or erratic pulse,that could be a sign of atrial fibrillation.
We hope that we answered your questions about KardiaMobile and mobile EKG monitors. If you still want tolearn more, our customer support team is always here to help.
