Apple's latest watchOS update introduces a significant health feature: Hypertension Notifications. Available on Apple Watch Series 9 and later, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later, this functionality proactively alerts users to potential high blood pressure issues. But how does it work? The magic isn't in new hardware; instead, Apple leverages the existing heart sensor and a sophisticated new algorithm to analyze heart rate data.
The system requires a 30-day baseline of data collection, initiated upon enabling Hypertension Notifications within the iPhone's Health app. After this period, the algorithm assesses the data for indicators of hypertension. If high blood pressure is detected within that 30-day window, you'll receive a notification on your Apple Watch.
Importantly, this feature is designed for individuals aged 22 and older who are not pregnant and haven't been previously diagnosed with hypertension. Apple strongly advises against enabling this feature for users outside of these parameters.
Upon receiving an alert, users are prompted to meticulously track their blood pressure for seven days using a separate, FDA-cleared blood pressure monitor. A dedicated Blood Pressure Log within the Apple Watch app facilitates this process, providing daily reminders for morning and evening readings and allowing for the recording of systolic and diastolic pressure. This log can be extended beyond seven days for ongoing hypertension monitoring. This extended tracking allows for a more comprehensive picture of an individual's blood pressure over a four-week period.
It's crucial to remember that these alerts are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Apple explicitly states that not everyone with hypertension will receive a notification, and the feature should not be considered a diagnostic tool or a treatment for hypertension. The alerts serve as a helpful prompt to encourage users to consult their healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and management of their blood pressure.
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Originally published at: https://www.macrumors.com/2025/09/17/apple-watch-hypertension-alerts/
