Apple Watch Series 6 - HRV readings innacurate?

We've worn our Apple Watches now for years, and although I know that the terms specifically mention that readings are not to be used as medical direction, nor the degree of accuracy is guaranteed, I have noticed on June 2, 2023 that my HRV readings have been incredibly inaccurate. When the watch checks for AFib randomly, I've noticed my HRV numbers drop significantly. When I do a "Breathe Exercise", the HRV number is sometimes 30, 40, 50 points (or more) higher than the watches independent check of my HRV. I didn't know if this was specific to the Series 6, and 7... but perhaps it's time to invest in a Series 8? Is anyone else experiencing this? I do take Lisinopril/HCTZ twice daily, and 1/2 of a 25 mg Atenolol (Beta Blocker) in the morning, and 1/2 at night. My heart rate ranges in the mid-50's to 60's at rest, and during exacerbations, it does spike to the 120's - and this is with the Atenolol. Our Cardiologist said that HRV is a relative score, and we've done the holter monitor, EKG, Echocardiogram... He says that all is normal. My BP readings are usually 100/70. Again, I'm not sure if there was a watch update around June 2nd, but after that, my HRV readings when the watch does them randomly are incredibly different than when I use the Breath app. Again, anyone else experiencing this problem? Any guidance would be most appreciated.

Apple Watch Series 6, watchOS 9

Posted on Jun 27, 2023 2:50 PM

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2 replies

Jun 28, 2023 2:49 PM in response to SRRW4EVER

Hello SRRW4EVER,


Thanks for asking about these features on Apple Watch.


Make sure you're on the latest version of iOS and watchOS supported by your devices.


Check here to see if a feature is available in your region.


Here are some additional resources you might find helpful:


Heart health notifications on your Apple Watch

Take an ECG with the ECG app on Apple Watch

Track your AFib History with Apple Watch


If you have any other questions, please contact our team here.


If you believe that you're experiencing a medical emergency, please contact your local emergency services.


Cheers.

Jun 28, 2023 5:24 PM in response to srbwanderer

Hello Less,


Thank-you for your help and response.


I think the issue is that there was an update on or around June 1st or 2nd that this began. There was another update last week. When I check for software updates, it says our watches are up to date with the current OS. That update caused there to be no HRV readings. I have the Health App setup to check for AFib, also. That update or updates really messed up our watches. We have always heavily relied on our watches because Apple is superior to the competition. At any rate, this is what happened to us. We have protective gear on our watches, they've never been dropped, damaged. Again, I appreciate your help. Best, Wayne


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Apple Watch Series 6 - HRV readings innacurate?

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