Fitbit charge 2

[audrey2543]

Been given one for birthday. Is it safe to use as I have AF, a pacemaker for heart block, several leaky valves and mild heart failure? Loth to bother GP if anyone else can advise.

[Hidden]

I copied the following from the medtronic site, I think you can call the company that made your pacemaker just to be sure:

COMMUNICATIONS AND OFFICE EQUIPMENT

Guidelines for safe operation of communications and office equipment include such factors as transmitting power, frequency, and antenna type. For items that transmit wireless signals through an antenna, it is recommended that you follow the noted distances between the antenna and your implanted heart device.

No Known Risk

If the item is used as intended and in good working condition, there is no known risk:

Activity Bands (FitBit, Body Bug, Nike+, Jawbone)

Calculator

Copy Machine

Desktop/Laptop Computer

Digital Music player (iPod®) – non-transmitting

Fax Machine

Global Positioning System (GPS)

Infrared Scanner

LifeAlert Pendant

Pager – receiver only

Printer

Radio AM/FM

Scanner

[audrey2543 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you. Reassuring. Fitbit simply say to check with medics. I will look up the info on the pacemaker people.

[wpw62]

I have AF and a pacemaker for total heart block (3years). Have worn a fitbit HR for two years with no problem.

If you are at all worried then it’s best to check with your pacemaker clinic.

[momist]

I really can't see how a Fitbit could become a problem to a pacemaker, or anything else. The heart rate monitor uses green LEDs and a camera to detect the pinker colour caused by the increased pressure in the capillaries during a pulse beat. The 'sync' function uses Bluetooth communication with your phone or tablet, and you might encounter a Bluetooth field anywhere, as you walk around in any crowd. I know of no other radiation emitted by a Fitbit. I'm a retired electronics engineer.

[audrey2543 in reply to momist]

Thanks everyone, especially momist. I had no idea how Fibit worked but now reassured it's not upsetting my electrics.

[Ianc2]

Should carry a health warning 'can be addictive'. Make sure no one else finds out you've got one or you will be getting messages. One of my friends regularly clocks up in excess of 24,000 steps a day. Does something called Zumba apparently and she has a dog.