[ad_1]
The Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app, available to those with Apple Watch Series 6, can be used to manage SpO2 readings at home. Like finger pulse oximeters, Apple’s flagship smartwatch can give you an idea of your body’s oxygen saturation without having your blood drawn in a lab.
Many of the best smartwatches also offer blood oxygen readings, but the Apple Watch is the most popular of the bunch. And as a Series 6 exclusive, you might be wondering how to use the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app if you recently picked up the latest Apple flagship.
Although the Apple Watch earned its reputation as a category leader by making things easier, reviewers and users alike have run into some issues taking accurate blood oxygen readings. We’ve been more successful, but we’ve also spent several weeks reviewing Apple’s blood oxygen app guide and understanding which variables affect our readings.
Here’s our guide on how to use the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app, including what we know about reading accuracy and tips on what to do if you experience failed measurements.
Is the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app accurate?
First things first: the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app is NOT FDA approved. Unlike the electrocardiogram (ECG) reader on the Apple Watch, the Blood Oxygen app doesn’t have a public health seal of approval, which means it can’t diagnose you based on your readings. Apple even provides an in-app disclaimer that its blood oxygen measurements are not intended for medical use.
The Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app offers a brief synopsis of blood oxygen and explains how 95% to 100% readings are considered average, although factors such as high altitude and non-life threatening sleep conditions could result in abnormal readings.
Below-average readings can also be a symptom of a lung condition such as silent hypoxia, a life-threatening condition that can intensify the effects of a respiratory illness.
If you have a low blood oxygen reading but no irregular breathing symptoms, your reading may not be accurate. We explain some factors that could be causing that below. With that said, if you have shortness of breath, cough, or wheezing and are concerned about your blood oxygen reading, you should contact your doctor.
How to use the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app
To use the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app, you must have the Apple Watch Series 6. Neither the Apple Watch SE nor the Apple Watch Series 3 support SpO2 readings.
1. Open the Blood Oxygen app on your Apple Watch. If you plan to take readings regularly, it might make it easier for you to put the Blood Oxygen app complication on the watch face.
2. Rest your arm and wrist on a flat surface and make sure your Apple Watch is facing up. Apple says you can also rest your arm on your lap, but we’ve had more success using a flat surface. Prepare to keep your arm still.
3. Click start measurement.. Keep your arm steady for 15 seconds.
4. Wait 15 seconds. If your Apple Watch was able to get a reading, it should see your blood oxygen level. Tap the information icon next to your reading to learn more about the Apple Watch blood oxygen app, or tap Done to finish.
Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app not working? What to do with failed measurements
There are a couple of factors that can cause the Apple Watch Blood Oxygen app to read “Measurement Failed” when taking a reading. Although your Apple Watch won’t tell you which of those factors you need to adjust, here are some tips to get the app working properly.
1. Do not move while reading. Even if you move your fingers or adjust your arm, you could experience a failed reading. Make sure to get your arm and wrist in position before pressing start.
2. Make sure your Apple Watch is snug on your wrist. The back of your Apple Watch should touch your wrist. If your Apple Watch is loose on your wrist, tighten the strap of your Apple Watch. Apple’s Stretchy Braided Solo Loop and Standard Solo Loop are great for a secure fit, as long as it’s the right size.
Even under the right conditions, your Apple Watch may not be able to get a reliable blood oxygen measurement at all times. Tattoos, high heart rate, and perfusion of the skin can also result in incorrect readings. Experiment with different factors and locations on your wrist to find what works for you.
Check out our guide on how to use the Apple Watch for more tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your smartwatch.
