The iHealth Gluco+ is an TGA approved, clinically tested, smart blood glucose monitor. Are you on the hunt for a good blood glucose meter in Australia? Take a deep dive with us into the Gluco+ to see its features, how to use it and what makes the iHealth Gluco+ a good blood glucose monitor to buy!
Portability, ease of use and app integration are some of the features offered by the iHealth Gluco+ System. This personal smart blood glucose monitor means readings for diabetes management are quick, simple and reliable. Through the iHealth Gluco-Smart app, send results to your doctor and store hundreds of readings in your digital logbook to track trends and changes.
The Gluco+ is a CE and FDA approved blood glucose meter. It meets the rigorous accuracy standards set by the governing bodies in the USA and Europe - giving users confidence and peace of mind with each reading taken.
Take 5 easy steps to receive 5-second results! Like standard glucometers, the Gluco+ is used in conjunction with a lancet device and test trips. Obtain a blood glucose reading immediately on the device’s LED display, and detailed results on your smartphone. The smart blood glucose system comes with a travel case designed to fit all of its components - making diabetes management on the go easier than ever! TheGluco+ meter itself is small enough to fit in your pocket.
Use the iHealth Gluco+ Smart System in conjunction with the Gluco-Smart app to see your results at a glance (Available now on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store). The app helps users to better understand their diabetes with different in-app functions such as Summary, Trends and Logbook. This digital logbook contains areas that allow relevant notes to be made in relation to food and exercise. Notifications can also be set to remind you to take a reading, medication or insulin. How handy! Keep important people in the know by exporting and sharing your results as an Excel, PDF or CSV file as needed.
You can perform a blood glucose test with the Gluco+ System without the iHealth Gluco-Smart app launched. Simply insert the test strip as normal to start up a measurement. When you perform a blood glucose test without the app, your results will be saved on the meter itself. It can save up to 500 test results! To synchronise your result on your iHealth profile at a later time, launch the Gluco-Smart app and click “Upload.”
The Gluco+ meter can save as many as 500 of the most recent blood glucose test results. When the meter needs to save a new test result and it has already stored 500 test results, the oldest results will be overwritten by the newest test result. Simply short press the memory button to view the test results stored in the meter. The first reading you’ll see is your most recent blood glucose test result. To view earlier test results, press the memory button repeatedly. When you reach the last test result, the figure “- - -” will appear. To keep all of your results saved, use the meter in conjunction with the Gluco-Smart app.
Up to 200 measurements can be taken on a full battery charge of the Gluco+ meter. The device has a built-in battery conservation function and turns off automatically when it is idle for 10 seconds.
Measuring your blood glucose is easier than ever with the iHealth Gluco+. To take a reading:
For detailed blood glucose testing instructions with the iHealth Gluco+ system, see the full user manual here.
According to Diabetes Australia, blood glucose levels (BGLs) for a person without diabetes will generally range between 4.0 – 7.8 millimoles of glucose per litre of blood (mmols/L) regardless of how they eat or exercise, or what stress they’re under. People who are living with diabetes usually have target blood glucose levels set by their doctor or specialist which are unique to them individually. However, the following information can be used as a general guide:
For information about diabetes, check out the blog by FitTrack Australia: Spot The Warning Signs Of Diabetes.
The following error codes and troubleshooting information can also be found in the complete iHealth Gluco+ System User Manual.
Strip removed during measurement. Start again using a new test strip.
Problem with the meter. Retest with a new test strip. If the problem persists, call iHealth Labs Customer Service.
Problems have occured that are related to test strip use, such as: Test strip may be wet or damaged, Test strip may have been removed too soon, You applied more blood. Retest using a new test strip.
The environmental temperature is lower than 10 degrees C.
The environmental temperature is higher than 40 degrees C.
Communication error. Press and hold the MEMORY button for 7 seconds. This will restore the meter’s factory settings. Use the charging line to activate the meter.
Blood glucose level is lower than 20mg/dL (1.1mmol/L). Repeat the test using a new test strip. If your result still flashes Lo, seek medical advice immediately.
Blood glucose level is higher than 600 mg/dL (33.3mmol/L). Wash and dry your hands and the test site thoroughly. Repeat the test using a new test strip. If your result still flashes HI, seek medical advice immediately.
Possible Causes:
Solutions:
Possible Causes:
Solutions:
Possible Cause: The strip has not been inserted correctly
Solution: Use a new test strip and redo the test
Possible Cause: System suspended
Solution: Press and hold the MEMORY button for 7 seconds to restore factory settings. Use the charging line to activate the meter.
FitTrack Australia are proud suppliers of the iHealth Gluco+ Smart Blood Glucose System and other medical devices by iHealth Labs. The Gluco+ is an excellent BG monitor - FDA approved and clinically tested. We are here to help with all of your diabetes management devices and supplies! FitTrack Australia provides fast shipping of glucometers and other health devices throughout Australia. See our range today!
iHealth Gluco+ Kit - updated SMART Blood Glucose Monitoring System (BG5s)The Gluco+ is a portable, personal diabetes data management device with in app integration |
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]]>At this point in time, evidence is still emerging as to how the new XBB and BQ.1 sub-variants affect the population. However, in regards to the new cases, Professor Paul Kelly (Australian Government Chief Medical Officer) stated on November 8 2022; “The overseas experience is that these new variants have driven increases in case numbers – and hospitalisations at a rate proportionate to these increases.”
On November 12 2022, ABC News reported that health authorities had announced a 47.3 per cent increase in nationwide COVID-19 cases since the previous week. That includes major spikes in QLD and NSW, prompting a new “Amber Alert” and mask recommendations from the QLD government.
Australia’s Chief Medical Officer is again encouraging everyone to focus on the actions they can take to reduce the threat of these new variants. At the top of Professor Kelly’s recommendations is being up to date with vaccinations, having a mask handy when out and about, and isolating if you have a positive result or COVID-19 symptoms.
Using pulse oximeters and non contact thermometers can be great ways to help identify if you have COVID-19. FitTrack Australia proudly supply a wide range of accurate, TGA approved pulse oximeters and thermometers to help people check their COVID-19 status. We also stock a selection of device packs to help you bundle and save when looking for trusted medical equipment to use at home.
iHealth AIR + iHealth Wireless Thermometer Bundle |
Fingertip Pulse Oximeter + Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer Bundle |
Children's Pulse Oximeter + Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer Bundle |
Pulse oximeters have proved to be an effective measure in knowing if you are infected with the virus - even if you think you have no symptoms! They can also help to identify symptom escalation. How do pulse oximeters help manage COVID-19?
Since COVID-19 directly affects the lungs and other respiratory functions, a pulse oximeter can quickly identify if your body is struggling to distribute oxygen efficiently. It measures both your pulse and your blood oxygen level. Many people have chosen to use a pulse oximeter at home under their doctor’s care to keep an eye on how they are going. An SpO2 reading of 92% or lower can be one defining feature of severe COVID-19 infection - requiring urgent medical attention. Depending on your own normal range, a reading of 93-94% may indicate “moderate” infection of COVID-19.
When looking for a pulse oximeter, it is essential to get one that provides accurate readings.The only devices trusted by medical professionals are those that are clinically tested and TGA/FDA approved, such as the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. These devices undergo clinical testing to confirm their accuracy. The FDA approved Jumper JPD-500H is a trusted and paediatric pulse oximeter stocked by FitTrack Australia for testing SpO2 levels on children.
For more information on how to use a pulse oximeter and some frequently asked questions, see FitTrack Australia’s blogs here!
Pulse oximeters are user friendly and simple to operate. To take a reading, simply:
The pulse oximeter will give you two results - your blood oxygen level (SpO2) and your pulse rate (PR.) Consult your doctor as to what levels are normal for you, and how often to take a reading.
As with all medical equipment, the only devices trusted by professionals are those that are clinically tested and TGA/FDA approved. To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 - even in the home - good thermometers to use are “non contact thermometers” - taking temperatures without the high risk of cross contamination that occurs with oral thermometers. These “touch-free” thermometers have multiple benefits, such as:
When used properly, infrared forehead thermometers provide highly accurate temperature readings. In fact, the iHealth Wireless Thermometer (PT3SBT) is one device that is TGA approved and trusted by medical professionals throughout Australia. This iHealth thermometer holds additional benefits to those already mentioned, such as one second testing and an ultra-sensitive infrared sensor for higher accuracy.
With the ever changing trends of COVID-19, its variants and sub-variants, now is the time to be ready to keep yourself and your family safe. Are you looking for pulse oximeters or thermometers in Australia? FitTrack are proud to supply the trusted devices you need.
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]]>Since 1991 World Diabetes Day (WDD) has been advocating diabetes awareness and the issues surrounding the disease. Each year, more and more adults and children are affected by either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The WDD foundation and the IDF Diabetes Atlas provide these current diabetes statistics:
Unfortunately, millions of sufferers around the world do not have access to diabetes care. The theme of this year’s WDD is “Access To Diabetes Care.” FitTrack Australia proudly stock a range of high quality diabetes management products to help people with the disease to monitor their blood glucose levels.
So, what really is diabetes? Are you at risk of the disorder? Keep reading to find out!
Diabetes is a serious condition that prevents the body from maintaining healthy levels of glucose in the blood. It halts the effective production of insulin (an essential hormone for glucose-energy conversion), causing sufferers to have harmful levels of blood glucose after eating any foods with sugar or starch. According to Diabetes Australia, the condition affects the whole body - being a leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, dialysis and limb amputations. It also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke up to four times and impacts mental health. Currently, there is no cure for diabetes.
Diabetes can be broken into three types: type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. Each type is complex and requires daily management.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce insulin. It is an autoimmune disease, causing the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas to be destroyed by one’s immune system.This type accounts for about 10-15% of all diabetes cases. It was previously thought that type 1 diabetes affected mainly children, teens and young adults, however new research is showing that nearly half of all type 1 cases are in people over the age of 30. Those with the condition depend on close blood glucose monitoring and the daily administration of insulin.
Type 2 diabetes occurs when either; the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, the insulin does not function effectively, the body’s cells have an ineffective response to insulin, or a combination of these factors. This type accounts for about 85-90% of all diabetes cases. While type 2 diabetes has historically been common in adults over the age of 45, it is now also occurring in younger people and children. Type 2 diabetes can be managed through lifestyle changes and medication.
Known as GDM, Gestational diabetes mellitus is the fastest growing type of diabetes in Australia. It is a form of the disease that appears during pregnancy - usually within the 24th to 28th week. Diagnosis occurs when high glucose levels appear in the blood during this time. GDM usually goes away after delivery. Some women, however, still experience symptoms of gestational diabetes after the baby is born. This type increases the chance of both mother and child developing type 2 diabetes in the future.
Diabetes is a genetic disease. Modifiable lifestyle risk factors can contribute to it - including high blood pressure, obesity, inactivity and poor diet. The risk of getting type 2 diabetes also increases with age and if a woman has previously had gestational diabetes.
On their website, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has created an online diabetes risk assessment which aims to predict an individual’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes within the next ten years. Click here to take the IDF’s type 2 diabetes risk test!
Diabetes treatment heavily revolves around keeping the body’s blood glucose levels within a certain range. This involves balancing your diet with activity and diabetes medications. The use of diabetes management tools such as blood glucose monitors can help you determine the link between blood glucose levels, food, exercise and insulin. Keeping track of blood glucose over time can help you and your doctor develop an effective management strategy for you individually.
Different factors for each person will determine how often they need to check their blood glucose levels. Some people with type 2 diabetes may not need to check their levels as regularly as some others with diabetes. Most, however, find a structured self monitoring program to be helpful.
Tools required to check blood glucose levels include:
Fittrack Australia are suppliers of a range of iHealth Glucometers and diabetes management equipment as listed above. We provide fast shipping of blood glucose monitoring systems to all parts of Australia. FitTrack Australia also stock smart diabetes monitoring bundles with all the equipment you need to start testing.
Learning how to check your blood glucose levels can help you to have confidence in monitoring your diabetes, better understand how your body works and know how your lifestyle changes are making a difference.
Get behind this year’s World Diabetes Day by learning more about the condition and what you can do to support those you love with diabetes!
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]]>Would you like to win a 5-piece Apple Airpods Accessory Kit for you and up to five friends? Protect your valuable Apple AirPods with a sleek silicone case and accessories! See below for entry details.
(Please tag FitTrack Australia's Instagram account (@fittrack.com.au)
That's it! Time to get creative...
Up to three winners will be chosen each day. All winners will be announced at the end of each week starting 28/10/22 and contacted by the official @FitTrack.com.au account
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Instagram, Facebook, Meta, Twitter or Apple.
Game of Skill Terms and ConditionsInformation on how to enter this competition (“Promotion”) and prize details form part of these Terms and Conditions. Entry into this Promotion entails acceptance of the following Terms and Conditions:
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The iHealth AIR is a TGA approved, clinically tested, wireless pulse oximeter. Are you on the hunt for a reliable pulse oximeter in Australia? Take a deep dive with us into the PO3M to see its features, how to use it and what makes the iHealth AIR a good pulse oximeter to buy!
Combining ease of use and reliable results with the luxury of app integration, the iHealth PO3M accurately measures your pulse and blood oxygen levels (SPo2) in seconds - and stores your readings in the iHealth MyVitals app for future reference.
The PO3M is a TGA approved pulse oximeter. Devices that pass the requirements of the Therapeutic Goods Administration are deemed safe and effective to use. It is also a clinically tested pulse oximeter - ensuring accuracy, reliability and confidence with each reading! Medical clinics, doctors and hospitals throughout Australia trust the iHealth AIR. (For the PO3M’s ARTG number, see the blog “Can Cheap Pulse Oximeters Be Trusted?”)
With the press of one button, the iHealth AIR takes your pulse and SPo2 in seconds. It can be used as a standalone device (without a smartphone) or can sync readings directly to the iHealth MyVitals app. The device comes with a lanyard, so can be worn during activities and quickly clipped to your finger for a reading at any time. After 8 seconds of inactivity, the device will automatically turn off, saving battery.
This device is lightweight and can be worn on the included lanyard for quick access. It is wireless, requiring no cables to take a reading - just clip it on and go! If you have a smartphone, the iHealth AIR allows you to easily connect, synchronise and save data on the iHealth MyVitals app via Bluetooth. The internal memory of the PO3M can store 100 readings before being overwritten, so synchronisation with the app doesn’t have to take place each time a measurement is taken. It can also be used as a stand alone device, without connection to a smartphone and app!
Check your pulse and SPo2 levels easily with the vivid LED display. When used in conjunction with the iHealth MyVitals app, see these readings, plus your perfusion index on the screen of your phone in real time!
The iHealth AIR PO3M is a fully rechargeable pulse oximeter with a built-in Li-ion 3.7V 390 mAh battery. Simply charge the device with the micro USB cable included. Full charge is reached when the LED battery indicator stops flashing.
With a simple and sleek design, cleaning the device is easy. The iHealth AIR’s body is backlit with an LED display - there are no screen ridges to hold dirt! Simply wipe the entire probe with a damp cloth (cleaning alcohol can be used.)
Connect the iHealth AIR pulse oximeter to your Apple or Android smartphone and sync it with the free iHealth MyVitals app to store and view your data in one place. See graphs, check trends over time and share your results to keep your doctor or caregiver up to date. When measurements are taken offline, they can be easily synchronised once connected with the app (the PO3M can store up to 100 readings before overwriting.) Available now on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
Measuring your pulse and SPo2 is easier than ever with the iHealth AIR. To take a reading:
Click here to read the complete user manual.
For an accurate oximeter reading, follow these simple tips:
For more tips and tricks on how to get an accurate pulse oximeter reading, see the FitTrack blog article: How To Use a Pulse Oximeter
A person’s SpO2 reading is an indicator of how well their body distributes oxygen.
Low SpO2 levels can be a sign of hypoxia - indicating insufficient amounts of oxygen are reaching the cells, tissues and organs. Covid-19 can be one cause for hypoxia (or silent hypoxia - without symptoms.) However, in other respiratory diseases such as COPD, these ranges may not apply. For example, it isn’t uncommon for people with severe COPD to maintain their SpO2 levels between 88 to 92 percent. Always consult your doctor as to what levels are normal for you. For more information on SPo2 levels and what to look out for, read the Pulse Oximetry FAQ here!
Your pulse rate is the number of times your heart beats per minute (BPM). Your pulse rate is not the same as your blood pressure. It is always best to check your pulse when you are resting, or have been resting for at least 5 minutes.
In most cases, a pulse rate on the lower end of the scale indicates a fit and healthy heart. Some athletes may have a low pulse rate due to their fitness. However, pulse rates outside the normal levels can indicate other problems. Always consult your doctor as to what levels are normal for you.
Having trouble with your iHealth AIR pulse oximeter? Follow these steps to troubleshoot the following problems:
Possible causes include - finger not inserted correctly, finger or hand movement, or damaged device.
Solutions - remove finger and reinsert, keep still while reading is taken, or contact the iHealth Customer Service at support@ihealthlabs.com.
Possible causes include - low battery or damaged device.
Solutions- Charge the device and try again, or contact the iHealth Customer Service at support@ihealthlabs.com.
Possible cause - the sensor is damaged.
Solution - contact the iHealth Customer Service at support@ihealthlabs.com.
Cause - low battery.
Solution - charge the battery and try again.
Possible cause - the Bluetooth function on the oximeter or your phone/tablet is not working.
Solutions - re-establish the Bluetooth connection on the oximeter and your phone/tablet. If still unsuccessful, restart the pulse oximeter and try again.
FitTrack Australia are proud suppliers of the iHealth AIR wireless fingertip pulse oximeter and other medical devices by iHealth Labs. The PO3M is a superior pulse oximeter - TGA approved and clinically tested. If you are wondering where to buy pulse oximeters that are accurate and trusted, we are here to help! FitTrack Australia provides fast shipping of pulse oximeters throughout Australia. Get yours today!
iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse OximeterMeasure your SpO2 and Pulse with the TGA approved, clinically tested iHealth AIR PO3M |
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]]>What is the world's leading cause of death in 2022? Heart disease and stroke. Get behind this year’s World Heart Day on September 29 by checking the health of yours!
Yes - each year, 18.6 million people die from heart related diseases. The World Heart Federation created World Heart Day in 1999 with the goal to inform everyone about the reach of heart disease, and urge people to take care of their own heart health. By simply controlling risk factors, at least 80% of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) and stroke deaths can be avoided! Therefore, education and exposure continues to be the WHF’s aim.
So, how’s your ticker “tocking''? Are there any lifestyle changes you can make to ensure your heart is at its best? What is cardiovascular disease (aka CVD)? If you are wondering about your heart’s health, keep reading to find out! Firstly, what is a “healthy heart?”
Living a heart-healthy lifestyle is one of the best things you can do for your future. Knowing what a healthy heart looks like can help you make decisions in care of it! The factors that contribute to good heart health are:
When these factors are within normal levels/kept healthy, your heart will thank you! And your whole body will reap the benefits. However, when there are issues in one or more of these areas, problems can develop - sometimes leading to cardiovascular disease (aka, CVD). So, what is CVD?
CVD is the term for a group of diseases that affect the heart or blood vessels. It can be broken down into:
As well as:
As stated at the outset, CVD has been and remains the world’s primary cause of death. At a 20.6% fatality rate, that’s a sobering statistic - even higher than that of cancer and COVID. CVD currently affects mostly low to middle income countries. So, what are its causes?
Cardiovascular disease can be caused by a range of factors stemming from socio-economic, behavioural or environmental causes. These can also be pre existing conditions, and include:
How is CVD diagnosed? In addition to assessing your symptoms, risk factors and medical history, a doctor may request a range of tests and imaging be done for a firm diagnosis. When necessary, these might include blood tests, x-rays, an electrocardiogram (ECG), CT scan or MRI. As well as keeping in touch with your doctor, it is also important to know the symptoms of CVD!
Symptoms of CVD vary substantially and can go unnoticed until a major heart event occurs - such as heart attack or stroke. So, keeping an eye out for the following symptoms is important and worthy of a visit to your doctor!
CVD Symptoms:
Interestingly - symptoms of a heart attack in men tend to be pain that’s more intense in the chest, left arm and jaw, accompanied by difficulty breathing. Heart attack symptoms in women may be similar but also tend to spread to the shoulders, neck, arms, abdomen and back. Symptoms of heart attack in women can be more inconsistent and dulled - sometimes mistaken for indigestion! They may experience little pain, but an increased amount of anxiety, fatigue, nausea, heart palpitations and cold sweats.
Although the above symptoms can be due to conditions other than CVD, they should never be taken lightly. So, if you experience one or more of the above symptoms of CVD - see your doctor. Cardiovascular disease can be treated easier when caught early. If you have chest pain paired with shortness of breath, seek medical help immediately.
The good news is, there are many ways to prevent and minimise the risk of cardiovascular disease. Many cases of CVD are linked to poor diet, physical inactivity, smoking and harmful use of alcohol. To significantly reduce your risk of getting it, it's important to keep all of these areas of your lifestyle in check. Eating healthy, exercising each week and keeping alcohol to a minimum will put you in line for a healthy heart for life! But, if you’re already living with CVD, staying healthy and active can help you live longer and reduce the chances of it getting worse. In addition, keeping an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels will greatly help in managing and minimising the effects of CVD.
Look At Your Levels:
Blood Pressure - High blood pressure is a key player when it comes to heart attack and stroke precursors. If you are at risk of hypertension, make sure to get it checked by your doctor regularly and monitor it from home. For a list of blood pressure levels, as well as how to lower it, read the “Blood Pressure FAQ” on our blog here.
Cholesterol - High cholesterol is another common cause of CVD that can be controlled by healthy living and certain medications. According to Better Health Channel, cholesterol levels should be no higher than 5.5 mmol per litre if there are no other risk factors present. If there are other cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking and high blood pressure or pre-existing cardiovascular (heart) disease, then the aim for the LDL levels would be less than 2 mmol/l.
Blood Sugar - High blood sugar or diabetes also increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Normal blood sugar levels are between 4.0–7.8mmol/L, however this target varies depending if the person has type 1 or 2 diabetes, says Diabetes Australia.
To help you “know your numbers,” that is, easily monitor your heart from home, there are more heart health devices available than ever before. Things like; Blood Pressure Monitors, Blood Glucose Monitors, ECG capable devices, Pulse Oximeters, Body Compositions Scales and Smart Watches are equipped with technology to help you take different readings on your heart with ease. Using these devices, along with regular checkups from your doctor are great ways to see your heart’s stats (and know if action is required!)
Withings BPM Core - Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor with ECG + Digital StethoscopeDetect a variety of cardiovascular diseases with one device - the TGA approved BPM Core |
Are people with cardiovascular disease more susceptible to severe COVID-19? Yes. And on the flip side, studies are showing that COVID patients who previously did not have any form of CVD are now six times more likely to develop it. For this year’s World Heart Day, the World Heart Federation is encouraging people to “Use Heart For Every Heart”. That is, to think differently and make the right decisions for the heart of yourself and others. So in line with this, they are recommending that people continue taking practical steps to keep themselves and others protected against COVID-19.
Cardiovascular disease is the world's number one killer - but it doesn’t have to be! Simple, healthy lifestyle changes can be all your heart needs to thrive. Care for it like it means your life (it really does). Never turn a blind eye to any symptoms that could be stemming from your heart. Know what they are, and have your heart checked regularly by a doctor and monitor it from home. Get behind World Heart Day on September 29!
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]]>Do you suffer from high or low blood pressure? Today, one in three Australians experience problems with high blood pressure, and many more have low blood pressure without even realising. So, how do you know if you have high blood pressure? What are the signs of low blood pressure? And, where can you buy a blood pressure machine? Keep reading our Blood Pressure FAQ to find out!
Blood pressure, or BP, refers to the pressure of the blood in someone's circulatory system. With each heartbeat, blood is pumped around the body through over 90,000 kilometres of blood vessels! As this happens, blood pushes against these blood vessels - creating pressure. A person’s blood pressure is able to shed light on the health of their heart and arteries. Blood pressure constantly changes through the day depending on your activity, body position, sleep and more. The higher the BP, the harder the heart pumps.
Taking a blood pressure reading at home is very simple. For best results, use a clinically validated, TGA/FDA approved BP monitor to trust your reading is accurate. Always use your device in line with the manual’s directions. Generally, blood pressure readings are taken:
It is recommended to take two readings every time, one or two minutes apart. Most people take their blood pressure at a similar time each morning and night. Consult with your doctor as to when it is recommended to take your personal BP measurements.
Blood pressure is measured by a BP machine in units of millimetres of mercury (mmHg). It is measured by taking both the highest and lowest reading - giving two figures. The highest reading is known as “systolic” and is displayed above the lowest reading, known as “diastolic.” The systolic measurement is the pressure in the artery as the heart contracts. The diastolic measurement is the pressure in the artery when the heart is relaxing and filling with blood.
A blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg or lower is considered within normal range. Maintaining a healthy diet and good exercise regime can keep blood pressure within its healthy range.
Hypertension is the term for high blood pressure - a serious medical condition that can lead to serious problems, including heart attack, heart failure, stroke and kidney disease. According to the World Health Organisation, hypertension is diagnosed when someone’s blood pressure reading is that of 140/90 mmHg or greater, on two different days. In addition, hypertension can typically be separated into three categories:
There are multiple things that can increase someone’s chances of developing hypertension, including:
Secondary hypertension is the term for high blood pressure that's caused by another medical condition. Secondary hypertension can come about from conditions such as:
Unfortunately, there are usually minimal or no signs of high blood pressure until it is at a critical stage. Hypertension symptoms can take years to develop into levels that are obvious enough to recognise. Regular checks by a doctor and the home use of a blood pressure machine are the best ways to monitor hypertension. When symptoms do appear, they can include:
Due to the invisible nature of hypertension, doctors usually will take a person’s blood pressure at each visit, and may recommend additional checkups if you have a family history of high blood pressure. Consult your doctor if you feel you have the above symptoms due to high blood pressure.
iHealth TRACK Connected Blood Pressure MonitorWith the press of one button, get accurate blood pressure readings at home with a TGA approved BP monitor! |
Interestingly, White-Coat Hypertension (also known as the white-coat effect or white coat syndrome) is high blood pressure that only occurs when a person is in a medical setting, such as at a doctor’s appointment. While this can sometimes be solely caused by anxiety from being at a medical appointment, it can be a precursor of true hypertension.
At times medication may be necessary to lower blood pressure. However, there are also some simple lifestyle changes that can be made to assist in keeping blood pressure at bay! The main one is maintaining a healthy diet. Making sure to include a good balance of vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, nuts, seeds and low fat dairy in daily meals has shown to help prevent high blood pressure. In addition, lowering sodium and saturated fat intake helps keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. Flavour meals by adding plenty of herbs instead of salt.
Regular exercise is another great way to lower a high blood pressure reading. Current Australian guidelines suggest that adults do 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate intensity physical activity each week. This could include things like a brisk walk, but also other activities such as golf, mowing the lawn or swimming.
Of course, maintaining a healthy weight and BMI (body mass index), quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake are also changes that are proven to benefit your blood pressure as well as your overall health. Water is the best thing for you to drink, so make sure to have plenty of it each day!
Hypotension is the term for low blood pressure, and is a BP reading of 90/60 mmHg or lower. It is most common in older people, and is usually more serious as it increases their risk of falling. Hypotension can be separated into two categories:
There can be multiple causes of low blood pressure, including:
Signs of low blood pressure can be similar to those of high blood pressure. Like the symptoms of hypertension, the signs of hypotension can go unrecognised and may not even be noticeable. When they do appear, symptoms of hypotension include:
Consult your doctor if you feel you have the above symptoms due to low blood pressure.
Today, BP monitors are equipped with a variety of features, with some including wireless design, ECG capability, digital stethoscope, bluetooth and app-integration. It’s always important to use validated BP machines that have been tested for accuracy. FitTrack Australia stocks a wide range of clinically validated and TGA approved blood pressure monitors trusted by medical professionals. One of these - voted by Forbes Health as the “Best Blood Pressure Monitor 2022” is the clinically validated and FDA approved iHealth TRACK Connected Blood Pressure Monitor - which uniquely features colour coded blood pressure readings for easy evaluation.
The Withings BPM Core blood pressure monitor is another clinically validated and TGA approved BP machine. It provides users not only their blood pressure measurement - but also electrocardiogram (ECG) readings to help detect atrial fibrillation, and valvular heart disease (VHD) detection via its digital stethoscope.
These blood pressure devices and others record all of your readings and store them through their compatible apps for future assessment - how handy!
Withings BPM Core - Wireless Blood Pressure Monitor with ECG + Digital StethoscopeThe world's first Blood Pressure Monitor with ECG and Digital Stethoscope capabilities - take readings with ease from home |
If you do suffer from blood pressure abnormalities, you are not alone. Although it can at times lead to more serious health conditions, there are various methods of treatment and ways to monitor blood pressure. If you suspect you have high or low blood pressure, consult with your doctor to get on track to managing your symptoms.
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COVID-19. The most media-covered and widespread virus of the last three years. Are you one of the unlucky 9.5 million people in Australia who caught it? If your symptoms were strong, no doubt you were relieved to finally test negative, rebook your plans and move on with your life. But, have you noticed that some symptoms have just never left? Although you’re now (for the moment) COVID-free, do you feel a little less “sparkly” than before you had it? If you do feel this way, you're probably not going insane or suffering from some kind of COVID paranoia. Long COVID is now affecting millions around the world, with patients and doctors everywhere reporting real long-term changes in those who had the virus. You may have heard the name and wondered, what is long COVID? And what are the symptoms of long COVID? Read on for the answers, as well as what experts are saying about how to treat long COVID.
Long COVID is not a contagious virus in itself, it is the term given to your body’s response beyond the initial illness. In this case, that means experiencing COVID side effects for a prolonged amount of time after testing negative to the disease. Symptoms of COVID-19 can generally take a few weeks to completely clear up completely. So if you’re in your second or third week with a little cough still niggling, you might just be on the tail end of it all. Someone is considered to have long COVID when symptoms persist for 12 weeks or longer after infection.
However, research into coronavirus and its long-term effects is still in its infant stages. In May this year, Australia’s Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Michael Kidd, stated that a case can be considered long COVID when symptoms last more than four weeks. According to Professor Kidd, “long COVID seems to affect between 10 to 30%” of COVID-19 patients. As research continues, it’s not yet known how long symptoms will remain in people suffering with post-COVID conditions. When speaking to WHO, Dr Janet Diaz said that sufferers are describing conditions lasting anywhere from 3 to 9 months - with more light to be shed as time goes on.
Currently, there is no designated test to diagnose long COVID, and people are displaying a wide variety of symptoms that could come from other health problems. This blurs the lines for healthcare providers when trying to confirm if a persisting illness is due to COVID or not. Doctors take into consideration your medical history, your current symptoms and whether or not you have tested positive for COVID in the past. So, what are the symptoms of long COVID? How do you know if you have long COVID?
Signs of long COVID can include, but are not limited to:
Digestive Symptoms
Heart and Respiratory Symptoms
Neurological Symptoms
Other General Symptoms
The most reported symptoms of long COVID so far have been shortness of breath, brain fog and fatigue. Of course, these symptoms vary between individuals and can extend beyond this list. Doctors have reported seeing more than 200 different symptoms in patients - all believed to be linked to a previous COVID-19 infection. Even people who experienced little or no signs of COVID when positive have seen long-term symptoms develop. Of course, these things can also occur from pre existing medical conditions. If you feel you could have long COVID, another medical condition or might be dealing with persisting COVID-19 symptoms, consult your medical practitioner. Symptoms of long COVID can be similar to those of influenza. To see the top symptoms of flu in 2022, check out our blog “Be Prepared This Flu Season”.
iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse OximeterLow SpO2 can be a sign of COVID-19. Check your SpO2 levels with a TGA approved pulse oximeter! |
Long COVID can affect anyone who has been previously infected with coronavirus. Again, research is still underway as to who might be more susceptible. So far, groups who appear to be more often developing post-COVID conditions are:
Children, teens and those who had little or no symptoms appear to be less affected by long COVID, but are not immune to it. While studies are still in early stages, the best way to prevent long COVID is to try and avoid catching, or re-catching COVID-19.
Currently, there is much research to be done surrounding the effects of coronavirus. Health authorities are urging people to take steps to attain the best prevention known so far - not getting infected with COVID-19 in the first place. A US study from the Washington University School of Medicine found that the risk of long COVID increases with the number of reinfections. So, practising those safety measures we are all so used to - mask wearing, hand washing, physical distancing - are still worth it this far down the track. If you do become infected with COVID-19, really look after yourself during this time and seek medical attention as soon as (or before) symptoms start to unravel. While those who don’t end up hospitalised with COVID can still get long term symptoms, they are far less likely to. The main takeaway here - take care of yourself!
At present, there is no specific treatment for long COVID - finding a cure depends on first understanding why the disease develops. So until then, patients are encouraged to seek support and treatment for their individual symptoms via their general practitioner and any necessary specialists. To help with this, a number of designated long COVID clinics have recently rolled out across Australia - with more expected. These clinics in NSW, QLD, ACT and SA are already helping many receive the help they need through a multidisciplinary team of practitioners and counsellors.
Along with its “mother”, long COVID is here to stay (until a cure is discovered, that is!) Anyone who has been infected with coronavirus is at risk of developing a post-covid condition. While our understanding of the disease is still minimal, the best preventative so far is not catching COVID at all. Symptoms are varied and sometimes inconclusive for those with other health conditions. For those who are (or suspect they are) dealing with long COVID, support and treatment of symptoms can be achieved with help from your doctor and other practitioners.
iHealth AIR + iHealth Thermometer BundleSuspect you have COVID-19? Check your symptoms with the TGA approved iHealth AIR Wireless Thermometer and Pulse Oximeter in seconds! |
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Flu season in Australia is underway! You may have found yourself diving for the tissues, paracetamol or Vitamin C supplements thanks to already catching a cold this winter. This could be somewhat thanks to an easing of COVID restrictions - which have caused flu cases to soar nationwide, and an especially chilly start to our colder months! So, what can help your family stay in-check this flu season?
Many have found an infrared thermometer to be one very helpful device in their medicine cabinet. Covid called for us to be taking our temperature before attending gatherings, school, appointments, and seemingly everything over the last two years! Now, households are also finding that infrared thermometers are a great way to keep the family in check and on top of flu symptoms and other circulating viruses. Now is the time to be prepared for the flu season in Australia! So, what are the key symptoms of flu 2022? And what is the best thermometer to check your flu symptoms?
Common flu symptoms include:
Flu side effects can range from mild to serious, depending on the person and their overall health. To reduce flu symptoms, make sure to get plenty of rest and fluids, and take paracetamol and decongestant medicines as needed.
The influenza virus spreads easily, but can be prevented by taking the simple precautions that COVID has made us well acquainted with! Remember to:
It;s important to note that the common cold is not the same as the flu, but it has similar symptoms. Common cold symptoms are:
Usually, you don’t get a fever with the common cold. But if you do suspect you or a family member has a fever, how can you take your temperature accurately from home? Finding out if someone has a fever gives you much-needed information about the next steps for their care!
If you haven’t needed to use a thermometer in a while, you may be surprised to see how far we’ve come from the old “glass and mercury”! Today, medical thermometers have had a digital makeover. People are after the best digital thermometer that pairs accuracy and usability in one. With so many different types on the market, it can be hard to know what is the best thermometer to use.
Non-contact infrared thermometers have become more popular than ever over the last two years, in some ways trumping their digital thermometer counterparts due to their ability to read someone’s temperature from a distance. These “touch-free” thermometers have multiple benefits, such as:
While it is argued that an internal thermometer is the “gold” standard in taking an accurate temperature, when used properly, infrared forehead thermometers also provide highly accurate temperature readings. In fact, the iHealth Wireless Thermometer (PT3SBT) is one device that is TGA approved and trusted by medical professionals throughout Australia. This iHealth thermometer holds additional benefits to those already mentioned, such as one second testing and an ultra-sensitive infrared sensor for higher accuracy!
Yes, temperature reading technology has come a long way! But you may wonder, how do infrared thermometers work?
iHealth Wireless Forehead Thermometer (PT3SBT)The iHealth PT3SBT is an Infrared Non-Contact Forehead Thermometer that provides one second testing at your fingertips |
Infrared is a type of energy that is emitted from the surface of all objects and is part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Infrared thermometers work by focusing the light that is coming from a person in the form of infrared rays and tunnelling that light into a special detector - called a thermopile. This thermopile turns the infrared radiation into heat, which then gets converted into electricity. This electricity is then measured and displayed on the screen of your thermometer. Amazingly, this process is achieved in as little as one second, depending on your thermometer!
Always consult the manual for the particular non-contact infrared thermometer you own. Generally, proper use of these devices involves the following:
Due to the way infrared thermometers work, it’s important to ensure the environment in which a temperature is taken doesn’t impact the performance of the thermometer. Where possible, choose an area that is draft free and out of the sun. Don’t take a reading on a person who is positioned near a heater or out in wet weather. Some manufacturers may also recommend sitting the wireless thermometer in the testing environment room for a period of time before usage.
FitTrack Australia provides fast whipping for a wide range of Wireless and No-Contact Smart Temporal/Infrared Thermometers. Find one that suits your needs here and be prepared this flu season!
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Are you looking for more ways to get active? If you have found that “pandemic life” has meant spending more time sitting - often in front of a screen - you’re not alone! The last two years have changed daily life for everyone in one way or another, and most of us have found that moving less has been one of those changes. The long awaited “return to normality” is now well and truly underway. But for many, making physical activity a priority each day is still proving to be a struggle - sometimes due to work, lack of motivation, the cost of a gym membership or an already jam-packed schedule! So, is there an easy way to stay active without the struggle of time, money and desire to want to?
These days it's easy for us to overcomplicate what exercise must involve. However, health experts say that good old fashioned walking is a great and simple way to improve your overall health! That’s right - walking. And the good news with that is - you don’t need any fancy equipment or gym membership to do it! Although it's true that testing your limits with a full body workout has a long list of benefits, walking is not to be underrated for its own health perks. For starters, walking is considered to be a “weight bearing exercise,” as you have to carry your entire body’s weight to do it. In addition, Australia’s Heart Foundation has proven that walking for an average of just 30 minutes per day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by 30 to 40%! Some other serious benefits of walking include:
As you can see, staying active by walking is not to be underestimated! But, how much should you walk each day?
Soundpeats Watch1 - SmartwatchThe Watch1 is a fitness tracker smartwatch that accurately records your steps, distance walked, calories burned and your heart rate all day. Its convenience will motivate you to reach your exercise goals and track your stats in real time! |
You may have heard the age old rule that 10000 steps is the ideal benchmark when it comes to daily movement. Surprisingly, this idea didn’t originate from scientific research, but rather, a 1965 pedometer designed by Japanese company "Yamasa Clock." The pedometer was named the “10000 steps meter,” and with that it set a precedent that guided the minds of future fitness enthusiasts.
Modern science suggests that, while there can be benefits of walking 10000 steps a day, there is no hard and fast rule as to the number of steps that are best. After all, every person’s age and circumstances play a great deal in what’s physically possible for them to accomplish. It is proven, however, that the more steps you can strive to achieve, the better your health will be - both now and in the long run.
The current Australian guidelines recommend a minimum of 2.5 hours (150 minutes) of moderate intensity physical activity a week, equating to around 30 minutes per day. Half an hour of activity corresponds to about 3,000 to 4,000 steps at a moderate pace.
Setting goals is the key! This plain fact has also contributed to the mainstream daily step goal being ten thousand, and for many it has been the motivating target they need to set to be more active.
Ten thousand steps works out to be around 8km. How long would it take to walk that far? About one hour and 40 minutes, depending on your stride length and walking speed. Those numbers can seem majorly time consuming and exhausting just to think about… But you don’t have to do it all at once! Why not try setting a personal daily step goal and increase your current average steps incrementally. Before long, you might be surprised to find yourself hundreds and even thousands of steps ahead of where you started! Many people have found success by increasing their steps by 1000 per day for one week, then raising that by another 1000 the following week, and so on.
But before working on raising your step count, you need to find out where you’re starting from. You may wonder; How many steps do I do in a day? Should I buy a step tracker? What is a good fitness tracker? Keep reading to see where to get started!
Before setting a daily step goal you need to find your personal benchmark. The best way to track your current daily step rate is by using a pedometer, step counter or fitness tracker. Although gadgets that count your steps have been around for a long time (the first one was created in the 15th century by none other than Leonardo DaVinci!), they have come a long way in design, usability and features. Nowadays, most fitness trackers and smart watches have an inbuilt pedometer as standard. These are usually designed to be used with one of countless apps that not only display the numbers in real time, but have personalised statistics and motivational tools to keep you going! Checking your progress throughout the day can be an excellent way to boost your confidence and drive you to chase the next milestone. Sometimes all we need is a little ‘healthy competition’ with ourselves, right?
Withings Steel HR Hybrid SmartwatchWithings Steel HR is a high-quality hybrid smartwatch that automatically tracks walking, as well as heart rate monitoring, multisport tracking and sleep tracking. |
One step tracking smartwatch - popular for both its chic design and performance - is the Withings Steel HR Hybrid Smartwatch. That’s right - pedometers are now incorporated into all kinds of wearables, including sophisticated looking, semi analogue/digital watches! Claiming to be the number 1 hybrid smartwatch worldwide, the Withings Steel HR tracks steps, calories burned and distance walked easily. When used in conjunction with the Health Mate app, it assists the wearer to set and reach their personal goal. FitTrack Australia stocks a range of step counting fitness trackers for every budget. Check them out here!
Once you’ve found the best way to track your steps and establish your baseline, what’s next? How can you increase your daily step count?
Check out these simple ways to walk more throughout your day!
Walking with friends is good for us both physically and mentally. Plus, having a regular time and place to meet provides structure to your schedule and helps hold you both accountable to getting active.
It may seem monotonous, but when time allows to take a far away parking spot, each step you make to get to the store or an appointment add up! Just think - 100m = approximately 130 steps!
If you get breaks during your work, why not use 15 minutes to do a quick lap of the building or the block? This is especially good if you are bound to a desk all day. You might find that a little ‘moving break’ will also help your focus.
We set reminders on our phone for all the important things, but don’t forget - walking is one of them! Why not set a series of “Get Walking” reminders to give you an unsubtle nudge throughout the day.
When you’re at home or work, take the long way to the restroom or the kitchen. If you’re running an errand or on a walk to a mate’s place, try avoiding the most direct route for some additional steps.
If you are early to an appointment, why not make the most of it and squeeze in a quick walk. It doesn’t have to be far away, even just a loop of the immediate area is better than phone scrolling!
It’s cliche, but hey - it works! Not only does taking the stairs at your work, home or shopping centre add steps to your count, it might raise your heartrate a little more!
Instead of meeting your friends for a sit down coffee, grab takeaways and go for a scenic walk and sip instead. Fresh air, friends and fine coffee - what’s better?
You know all those small sets of minutes we spend waiting throughout the day? For the kettle, the ads, or the floors to dry? Instead of standing or sitting it out, get up and pace while you wait. Pacing is also a great way to rack up steps during phone calls - you could try hands free and take the call outside.
It sounds silly, but instead of carrying all the shopping bags in like a boss, or getting the clothes hung out in 1 minute flat, draw out these simple activities by doing things one at a time. Carry in the shopping bags one by one, or hang out the clothes with the basket a few metres away. Before long you will have done an extra hundred steps!
Alright, you’re all set to get stepping! The question now is, when will you start?
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]]>Would you like to win an iHealth LITE Wireless BMI Smart Scale, valued at $139.95? The iHealth LITE tracks weight, BMI and progress in one sleek, easy to use device! See below for entry details.
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The runner up will be awarded a pair of FitTrack Elegance 5.0 headphones, and the second runner up will win a pair of FitTrack Q65 Pro Headphones!Winners will be announced via email / phone on 30/5/22 and contacted by the official @FitTrack.com.au account.
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Are you living in Western Australia and wondering where to get pulse oximeters in WA? Earlier this year the WA government released its COVID Care at Home program to help residents be better equipped to monitor the virus from home. This is a free service provided by the state’s Department of Health to support people who have received a positive COVID-19 test result. This home care program provides FREE oximetry monitors for eligible residents in WA! In addition to this, Western Australian LGAs and Shires have also begun handing out free pulse oximeters to members of the community who are COVID-vulnerable. So, are you eligible? Where can you pick up your free pulse ox? And if you don’t fall into an eligible category but are suffering from COVID, where can you buy a pulse oximeter in WA?
You are eligible for your free pulse oximeter if you:
If you fit into one of these categories, you are entitled to one free device per household! Have you picked up yours yet?
If you’re yet to get your hands on your free oximeter or are wondering where to find one, you can find a collection point in the council areas below:
Are you an eligible resident living in one of the above areas? If so, you can pick up your free pulse ox device at any time!
This program is a health service that remotely supports and monitors people with COVID who are well enough to stay home during their recovery. Those enrolled are regularly checked in by teams of doctors, nurses and support staff, who provide assistance and arrange hospital transfer if necessary. These care teams keep in touch via telephone or video chat as frequently as needed. They may ask you to measure your pulse, oxygen levels or temperature in order to keep track of your recovery - and provide the equipment necessary - including free pulse oximeters! Help is also provided to access additional support for your mental wellbeing, and practical assistance with groceries, medication and family financial support.
This service is available to eligible residents in WA who have already received a positive COVID-19 test result. Pre-registration is not available. Eligibility is assessed after completing a short registration form (available on the HealthyWA website) which determines risk factors such as age, vaccination status, medical history and COVID-19 symptoms. The program is available to anyone with access to a telephone - including metropolitan, rural and remote locations. You may still wonder though - when it comes to monitoring your symptoms, are pulse oximeters worth it? Can a pulse oximeter really detect COVID?
A pulse oximeter is a small, clip-like device that measures how much oxygen is in your blood (SpO2,) as well as your pulse. It is fast and non invasive, therefore being the preferred way by most to test oxygen saturation levels over a blood test. You can read more about pulse oximetry and how to use them on FitTrack Australia’s blog article here.
Jumper JPD-500D Fingertip Pulse OximeterConveniently measure your blood oxygen saturation level within seconds with this easy to use US FDA Registered pulse oximeter. |
Since the pandemic’s beginning, demand for these devices has skyrocketed! Why? Having a low level of oxygen in the blood is an early sign of COVID-19 and can indicate if your condition is worsening. Many health professionals have also expressed concern that pulse oximeters will continue to be difficult to access as case numbers continue to accelerate! This has been true over the course of the pandemic so far, and with the change of seasons, new variants and case flare ups continuing to occur, pulse ox shortages continue to be a risk.
These factors have convinced many that a TGA approved pulse oximeter should be part of their home first aid kit. To see what is a good, medical grade device, have a look at some factors to watch out for in the article: Why you should avoid cheap pulse oximeters? But, what if you aren’t eligible? Where can you get your hands on one of these SpO2 readers?
iHealth Air Wireless Fingertip Pulse OximeterAccurately measure your blood oxygen level (SpO2), pulse rate and perfusion index with the iHealth Air Wireless Pulse Oximeter. Clinically tested and trusted by medical professionals and hospitals throughout Australia. |
If you didn’t fall into the above categories, it is still possible for you to acquire a pulse oximeter in WA! FitTrack Australia stock a range of oximetry capable devices and smart thermometers, including the TGA approved iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. This product and others on our site produce reliable results and are clinically tested and trusted by medical professionals throughout Australia. Customers from Perth to Broome and all areas of WA have access to fast shipping of thermometers and SpO2 readers from FitTrack! So, will you be prepared this flu season?
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Do you suffer from a form of cardiovascular disease? Millions of people each day are affected by conditions that impact their heart and blood vessels in some way - often leading to stroke, high blood pressure, kidney disease, impaired blood supply to the legs and other related disorders. Among many others, atrial fibrillation (also called AF or AFib) is one of the most common forms of cardiovascular disease affecting Australians today, and the most common type of heart rhythm disorder. In fact, studies show that around half a million Aussies are currently living with AFib - that’s equivalent to 2% of the population in 2020! It is also estimated that one in three people are at risk of developing AFib in their lifetime. So what is atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia - a fault in the heart’s electrical system that causes an irregular pumping rhythm. In AFib, the heart’s own pacemaker becomes overwhelmed by abnormal functioning between its top two chambers (atria) and its lower two chambers (ventricles). When the atria and ventricles twitch out of rhythm to each other, blood does not flow properly inside the heart. This can cause blood clots, which in turn can lead to stroke and heart failure. When properly treated however, atrial fibrillation is not usually life threatening.
Video from Heart Foundation
Atrial fibrillation can be separated into three categories:
Paroxysmal AFib, or “intermittent AFib,” are episodes of atrial fibrillation that stop and start spontaneously, often suddenly. These occurrences can last anywhere from a few seconds to a few hours, or even a few days before stopping and allowing the heart to return to its normal rhythm. Due to its unpredictable behavior, Paroxysmal AFib can be difficult to identify.
Persistent AFib is defined as AFib that persists for more than seven days, or that has required a medical procedure (cardioversion by medications or electric shock treatment) for termination of the rhythm. This type of AFib does not stop on its own.
Chronic, or permanent AFib is that which has been ongoing for many years. Chronic AFib often cannot be resolved by cardioversion treatments. In this situation, long-term medication may be used to help control heart rhythm and symptoms, and lower the odds of a stroke occurring.
Research has shown that up to 30% of all cases of paroxysmal AFib progress into persistent or more chronic AFib after one year. If atrial fibrillation is found early, treatment may be easier and more effective. So, how do I know if I have AFib?
The risk of having AFib increases with age. An estimated 1 in 20 Australians over the age of 55 have some kind of AFib. It is also the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia in athletes, with middle aged athletes being most at risk. Whilst younger people are considered low risk for developing AFib, they are more likely to have paroxysmal AFib than any other type.
Other conditions and lifestyles can put a person at greater risk of acquiring atrial fibrillation. These include:
Although some factors are beyond our ability to change - such as age and family history, other factors can be monitored and minimized. To do this, it’s important to know what can cause atrial fibrillation or a sudden episode of it.
Realizing what triggers atrial fibrillation can be very helpful to those who experience intermittent episodes of AFib. Like any medical condition, when the triggers of AFib are avoided, the entire management process becomes easier and more effective!
Atrial fibrillation triggers can include:
It’s good to remember that when it comes to triggers for atrial fibrillation, every person is different. People suffering from any form of cardiac arrhythmia should get to know what makes their own arrhythmias worse in order to avoid those things. Consultation with a doctor can help people identify what triggers paroxysmal AFib for them.
Atrial fibrillation symptoms differ from person to person. Some encounter no symptoms at all, while others experience daily or severe symptoms. For most people it begins with a skipped heartbeat followed by a “thudding” sensation in the chest. Other signs and symptoms of AFib may include:
People with AFib can have one or multiple symptoms. If experiencing these symptoms for the first time, urgent medical attention is needed - as these warning signs are similar to those of other cardiac problems such as a heart attack. For sufferers of chronic AFib, some of these symptoms may be a frequent occurrence. In this case, any change in their type or severity should be followed up by a doctor. But what if you only have one or none of the above symptoms? Is there a smartwatch that can check for arrhythmias? Or how can you check if the cause of your tiredness is actually AFib?
These days, it is easier than ever to keep an eye on AFib from home - and it’s all thanks to innovations in electrocardiogram (ECG) technology! Countless people are readily using smartwatches and other devices capable of ECG to detect and track atrial fibrillation symptoms. You may wonder though, can a home health device really provide accurate electrocardiogram readings?
Amazingly, they can! Medical professionals all over the world are supporting the use of wearable and at home ECG devices. In a way, they are even better able to detect signs of Atrial fibrillation when symptoms are intermittent. Wellness technology engineer Dr Conor Heneghan noted: "Afib can come and go, as can conditions that affect the rhythm of your heart. That means having a device that can take spot readings at any time, makes it a hugely powerful health tool to have at your disposal.” Yes, instead of relying on sheer chance that paroxysmal AFib will show up at the next checkup appointment, patients can conveniently monitor and record their heart behavior closely, 24/7.
Withings ScanWatch - Hybrid SmartwatchThe Withings TGA approved ScanWatch boasts a medical-grade ECG, an oximeter for SpO2 measures, and an exceptional battery life of up to 30 days. |
Always make sure to look for a device that is medical grade, clinically tested and TGA approved or FDA registered. This gives peace of mind that the results that are presented will be accurate - an important requirement when it comes to our health!
One of the highest rated ECG capable smartwatches is the Withings ScanWatch - the first hybrid smartwatch to scan vital parameters to detect heart health conditions. Its medical grade electrocardiogram was developed with professionals from world renowned institutions and produces a reading in 30 seconds!
Another quality device is the World #1, TGA approved and clinically validated Withings BPM Core, capable of recording blood pressure, electrocardiogram and blood pressure all in one. Made alongside cardiologists themselves, the BPM Core’s three electrodes record a medical grade ECG, providing the user with accurate personal health data at their fingertips.
Withings BPM CoreThe BPM Core delivers accurate blood pressure and heart rate, as well as ECG monitoring and a digital stethoscope. Now an at-home device can point to a risk of serious conditions, including atrial fibrillation (AFib). |
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The pulse oximeter probe can be placed on extremities including a finger, toe or earlobe. The probe should fit comfortably, not stretched over a large digit. When placed on a finger, the nail should be facing upwards. Statistically, the right hand middle finger is shown to supply slightly more accurate readings.
In short, yes. Although a pulse oximeter’s heart rate monitoring function is not affected by skin colour, it can give less accurate blood-oxygen SpO2 readings when used on people with darker skin. To determine SpO2 levels, these devices rely on measuring light absorption through the skin. Darker pigmented skin can hinder the light signal, resulting in inaccurate SpO2 readings. Despite this however, pulse oximeter devices are still valuable tools for people with more pigmented skin. Experts recommend knowing your normal levels, from which changes can still easily be identified.
Pulse oximeter accuracy depends on multiple factors.Typically, devices with the highest accuracy are only those that are TGA approved, such as the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter, or the FDA approved Jumper JPD-500D Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. These pulse oximeters undergo clinical testing to confirm their accuracy and are trusted by medical professionals, unlike many other devices sold over the counter.
The accuracy of an oximeter reading can also be affected by skin pigmentation, skin thickness, ambient lighting hitting the sensor, movement during reading, tattoos, wearing nail polish and poor circulation/cold hands. When using a pulse oximeter, always make sure to fit the probe properly onto a clean and warm finger, toe or earlobe and sit still while awaiting the result. Consult your device’s manual or see some more tips for an accurate reading here: “How To Use A Pulse Oximeter?”
Always consult with your doctor as to what your normal readings should be when using a pulse oximeter at home.
A person’s SpO2 reading is an indicator of how well their body distributes oxygen.
Low SpO2 levels can be a sign of hypoxia - indicating insufficient amounts of oxygen are reaching the cells, tissues and organs. Covid-19 can be one cause for hypoxia (or silent hypoxia - without symptoms.) However, in other respiratory diseases such as COPD, these ranges may not apply. For example, it isn’t uncommon for people with severe COPD to maintain their SpO2 levels between 88 to 92 percent. Always consult your doctor as to what levels are normal for you individually.
Monitoring the “trend” is important: a reading that is borderline 95% and falling is more concerning than one that is borderline 95% and stable or rising. A drop in oxygen saturation of 3% or more upon exertion is considered abnormal and should prompt further assessment.
For people with or testing for covid-19, a pulse oximeter reading of 92% or lower is one defining feature of “severe” infection - requiring urgent medical attention. Depending on your own normal range, a reading of 93-94% may indicate “moderate” infection of covid-19.
A pulse oximeter reading is part of a wider assessment of your overall health. If you are experiencing other symptoms - such as shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, headache or rapid heartbeat, immediately seek medical assistance.
Perfusion index (Pi) is the ratio of pulsing blood to non-pulsing blood flow at the test site, and is used to indicate the strength of the blood flow around your body.
When used correctly, no. Pulse oximetry is a safe, pain free and fast test. However, it is good to remember that any medical device used without medical supervision can be potentially dangerous - incorrect usage or incorrect evaluation of the readings can lead to untreated health conditions. Likewise, a concerning indication on the pulse oximeter should not panic you, if you do not have any clinical symptoms. It can just be the result of an inaccurate measurement!
Unfortunately, most cheap pulse oximeters on the market are not clinically tested and validated and should be avoided. This means there is a higher chance of inaccurate measurements - resulting in either false alarms or unnoticed medical conditions. The real question is, “Am I willing to risk my health for the sake of a cheap, non TGA approved device?” Studies conducted in the US and UK showed that some cheaper devices sold to consumers without regulatory approval were significantly less accurate than approved devices. Like most things in life, you get what you pay for, and pulse oximeters are no different.
The best way to have confidence in your pulse ox readings is to use a device that is trusted by medical professionals. Only TGA/FDA approved pulse oximeters such as the iHealth Air PO3M are clinically tested and validated. These devices are put through multiple testing phases to achieve the best functionality and highest accuracy. To ensure trustworthy readings, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on correct use of the pulse oximeter. Factors that can affect the outcome of SpO2 readings include skin colour, movement and hand temperature.
Yes - the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is a medical grade device that has proven to measure SpO2 levels accurately in people suffering from Atrial Fibrillation. Pulse oximeters that are not medical grade are usually unable to obtain a reading in patients with cardiac arrhythmias such as AFib. When compared with cheaper oximeters, customers who have used the iHealth AIR PO3M to help monitor AFib have noted it surpasses all others in performance and accuracy.
Yes - the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is a medical grade device that has proven to measure SpO2 levels accurately in people suffering from COPD. People who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease usually need to measure their SpO2 on a regular basis. While cheaper, non medical grade oximeters may give inaccurate readings (running the risk of delayed treatment for a COPD attack,) the iHealth AIR PO3M has proven to pull its weight when compared to the readings given by expensive oximeters used in hospital settings. Customers who have used the iHealth AIR PO3M to help monitor COPD have noted it surpasses all others in performance and accuracy.
Oxygen concentrations between 91% and 95% indicate a possible medical problem. If this happens, contact your doctor immediately and continue to monitor other symptoms, calling triple zero (000) if you experience:
If your SpO2 drops below 90%, call triple zero (000.) This is considered a medical emergency and immediate medical help is required.
Some people with chronic respiratory conditions may have a normal SpO2 level that is usually considered low for other people. Always consult with your doctor as to what your normal levels should be.
Yes, nail polish and artificial nails can interfere with pulse ox readings. To determine SpO2 levels, these devices rely on measuring light absorption through the skin. Coloured nail polish and artificial nails can hinder the light signal, resulting in inaccurate SpO2 readings. To attain the most accurate results possible, it is recommended to remove nail polish and artificial nails before using a pulse oximeter probe on your finger.
Children can have their pulse and SpO2 measured using a paediatric pulse oximeter, such as the FDA approved Jumper JPD-500H. Paediatric pulse oximeters are more compact and better suited to the hands and fingers of children. Their specific design allows accurate readings to be taken on small patients. The iHealth Air PO3M is designed with a larger probe, and is suitable for people 16 years and over. Always consult the manual and product specifications of your device to ensure who it can be used on.
Oximetry has been identified as an important element in providing home care for covid-19
patients and monitoring any escalation in symptoms. Since COVID-19 directly affects the lungs and other respiratory functions, a pulse oximeter can quickly identify if your body is struggling to distribute oxygen efficiently. Many people have chosen to use a pulse oximeter at home under their doctor’s care to monitor their COVID-19 status. The only devices trusted by medical professionals are those that are clinically tested and TGA/FDA approved, such as the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter.
Reference material/links
]]>Since re-opening its borders in March 2022, Western Australia has experienced a steep upward rise in cases of COVID-19 and its variants. Like all other Australian towns and cities right now- homes, workplaces, schools and neighbourhoods in Perth, Mandurah, Broome, Bunbury, Geraldton and other areas of WA have been hit by growing COVID-19 community transmission. To add salt to the wound, Australia has now recorded multiple cases of the new hybrid variant “Deltacron,” which at this stage, seems to be acting more like Omicron in the way it spreads. Paul Griffin, Australian infectious disease expert said: “We know Delta was perhaps more severe in terms of the illness that it caused, but we know that Omicron is likely more infectious."
With more infectious mutations of COVID-19 popping up seemingly each week, many people in WA are looking for ways to monitor their health status with ease and comfort from their own home by expanding the basics of their family first aid kit. Pulse Oximeters in Western Australia are currently high on the “to get” list, and many people are wondering, “Where can I buy pulse oximeters in WA?”
With rising cases of COVID-19 come a higher demand for home health monitoring equipment - such as non contact smart thermometers and pulse oximeters. FitTrack Australia is one of Australia’s leading suppliers of these devices, and has seen an unprecedented demand for pulse oximeters since the pandemic began. As mentioned in an earlier FitTrack article this year, many customers who have been unwell or caring for a sick loved one were desperate to get their hands on a pulse oximeter to assist in monitoring covid-19 symptoms from home. This led to a high demand for FitTrack’s TGA approved/FDA registered pulse oximeters, and they were selling out before even reaching our warehouse in Sydney! Now, the demand has shifted to pulse oximeters in Perth and other parts of WA.
At the moment, the majority of pulse oximeter sales from FitTrack have been and currently are headed towards Western Australia. We stock a range of pulse oximeters and pulse oximetry capable smartwatches, including the TGA approved iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. Customers in Perth, Carnarvon, Albany and all areas of WA also have access to the iHealth AIR + iHealth Wireless Thermometer Bundle as well as other bundles, and the Withings Scanwatch range - capable of pulse oximetry.
FitTrack provides fast shipping of thermometers and pulse oximeters to WA to help each one of our customers stay on top of checking their covid-19 symptoms. From Port Hedland to Exmouth and Margaret River to Esperance, FitTrack customers in WA can have pulse oximeters and a range of other health monitoring devices delivered to their door!
Using an oximeter is fast and non-invasive, being a great way for adults and children to keep track of their health. Pulse Oximeters are able to measure the amount of oxygen in your blood (as well as your pulse rate.) Since COVID-19 directly affects the lungs and other respiratory functions, a pulse oximeter can quickly identify if your body is struggling to distribute oxygen efficiently. If it is failing to deliver enough oxygen to the tissues, this condition is known as hypoxia.
While hypoxia can sometimes produce other symptoms that alert a person that there is an issue, studies are showing that some people with covid have what is known as “silent hypoxia” - inadequate oxygen distribution with no symptoms. Pulse oximeters are being used in ever growing popularity for this exact reason - so people who are asymptomatic can accurately test from home if they might have covid. While Western Australia's covid cases are still rising, many people in WA are choosing to use an oximeter at home under the care of a doctor to keep an eye on their COVID-19 status. Of course, home pulse oximeter use does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis and assessment from your doctor, but is another way to be proactive with COVID-19.
While there are many cheap pulse oximeters on the market, the only devices trusted by medical professionals are those that are clinically tested and TGA approved/FDA registered, such as the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. Cheaper, non clinically validated oximeters are not considered medical grade, and have proven to be inaccurate - more likely leading to undetected health conditions.
iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse OximeterSee how your activity affects your oxygen level and pulse pre and post workout! Medical grade blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) monitoring for your family at home. |
Always be sure to check if the pulse oximeter you choose is approved by the TGA or registered by the FDA, trusted by medical professionals and sold internationally. FitTrack Australia provides fast shipping of TGA approved pulse oximeters to all parts of WA.
References:
]]>The Pulse Oximeter - a long time, trusted tool used by medical professionals in hospitals and office settings alike. Now, they are more popular than ever as an everyday home device. What is a pulse oximeter? How do pulse oximeters work? And how can you get the most out of your pulse oximeter device?
A pulse oximeter is a small, clip-like device that measures how much oxygen is in your blood, as well as your pulse. It is fast and non invasive, therefore being the preferred way by most to test oxygen saturation levels, over a blood test.
To measure your blood oxygen level (SpO2,) the pulse oximeter shines a beam of light through the skin (usually of your fingertip or earlobe.) It then calculates what percentage of your blood is carrying oxygen by measuring how the light is absorbed. Pulse oximeters can rapidly detect even small changes in oxygen levels. These levels show how efficiently blood is carrying oxygen around your body, in particular the extremities - including your arms and legs.
Pulse oximeters are very user friendly and easy to use. To take a reading you will:
The pulse oximeter will give you two results - your blood oxygen level (spO2) and your pulse rate (PR.) Consult your doctor as to what levels are normal for you, and how often to take a reading.
There are some factors that can affect the accuracy of a pulse oximeter reading or disrupt it altogether. If you experience problems, try the following:
For healthy people, an SpO2 reading of 95%-100% is considered normal. People with chronic health conditions may have normal levels slightly lower than 95%, in which their doctor will let them know what SpO2 reading to expect. In general, if your SpO2 drops below 95% you should contact your doctor.
Source: ridgmountpractice.nhs.uk
Pulse oximeters are extremely easy to use, convenient and do not require specialist medical knowledge to operate. Since the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic, pulse oximeters have become increasingly popular as people want to monitor their Covid-19 infection status. Having a low level of oxygen in the blood is an early sign of worsening Covid-19. Many health professionals have expressed concern that pulse oximeters will continue to be difficult to access as case numbers continue to accelerate. In light of this, we believe that now is a good time for every household to make a pulse oximeter part of their standard health care/first aid kit.
Health professionals also recommend pulse oximeters to people who:
One clinically validated, medical-grade, TGA approved device is the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter. The iHealth AIR PO3M pulse oximeter is trusted by medical professionals not only in Australia, but all over the world due to its accuracy, reliability and durability.
(FitTrack Australia recommends consultation with your healthcare provider for advice on the suitability of pulse oximeters for your personal health needs. Home pulse oximeter use does not replace professional medical consultation or advice from your doctor or health care provider.)
]]>CEO of Withings, Matheiu Letombe, stated that the move enters Withings into “the era of the ‘product-service-data,’ combining personal health data with personalised wellness plans,” to “further deliver on our mission to empower anyone to be healthier in the long-run.”
Withings is one of the world’s leading health-tech giants - responsible for bringing non invasive, easy-to-use smart health technology into the everyday home. With more than 10 years experience in the field, Withings invents, designs and manufactures a range of award winning, clinically validated smart health devices and associated apps. Since its beginning in 2008, Withings has grown its smart health scope from the world’s first connected scale, to the largest connected health ecosystem in the market today.
Their products range from blood pressure monitors, to sleep monitors, smart scales, thermometers and smartwatches, their latest and most advanced being the Clinically Validated ScanWatch. Withings build devices that capture a wide range of health parameters - including Blood pressure, heart rate and sleeping patterns, and claim they can help anyone master their long term health goals.
8FIT is the second recent acquisition for Withings, who also gained Impeto Medical - a French medical device company responsible for designing a method to detect peripheral neuropathies. This technology has already been incorporated into Withings’ new BodyScan (Segmental Body Composition & ECG Scale), a scale that goes beyond weight management, promising to identify poor nerve function and give users in-app access to specialized clinical support.
Following in the steps of other leading brands, Withings have taken on the ‘device-and-recurring-revenue model,’ offering a subscription service to unlock the full abilities of their devices. It’s likely that 8FIT’s features will be integrated into Withings’ own Health Mate app over time, for a cost. Withings is planning to allocate $30 million over the next three years to continue developing its ability to offer customized, tailored support for customers wanting to get healthier and achieve their fitness goals.
Not just “another workout app,” 8FIT is a global health and fitness application designed to simplify healthy living altogether. It fulfills the needs of users who are united by the desire to feel better inside and out. The Berlin-based app is available worldwide in six languages, with 30 million downloads and counting!
The 8FIT health and fitness app offers:
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One study in South Africa found that patients who monitored blood oxygen levels at home using a pulse oximeter had 50% less chance of dying from COVID as they were able to detect a deterioration in their condition earlier and succumbing to “silent hypoxia”.
The widespread increase of popularity and use of Pulse Oximeters has led to a flood of cheap pulse oximeters in the market. It is even possible to purchase a pulse oximeter on eBay, Kogan or Amazon for under $20. This has led to numerous warnings by government health departments and bodies such as TGA regarding the accuracy and reliability of pulse oximeters, and the implicit trust people have placed in cheap pulse oximeters available online.
Their concern is valid. For example, if a cheap digital thermometer was inaccurate and failed to pick up a high fever in your child resulting in them becoming seriously ill, the outcome could be devastating. Whilst we can often easily tell when someone has a raised body temperature by touch (cross-checking the thermometer’s reading), it isn’t possible to gauge one’s blood oxygen levels without a pulse oximeter.
So if you have purchased a cheap pulse oximeter online, how do you know if its measurements are accurate and can be trusted?
As with most things in life, you get what you pay for. Apart from poor construction, the reliability and accuracy of cheap pulse oximeters sourced overseas and sold online (through eBay, Kogan, Amazon and new fly-by-night websites that have recently popped up capitalising on the COVID-19 crisis selling pulse oximeters) can be called into question.
This isn’t to say that every affordable pulse oximeter isn’t accurate, but rather, what assurance do we have that these pulse oximeters can be trusted? Many of the cheap pulse oximeters sold online do not have TGA approval, FDA / CE registrations and have not undergone clinical validation.
So how can you determine whether a pulse oximeter is accurate and can be trusted? If a pulse oximeter fulfils the following criteria, you can have reasonable assurance that the pulse oximeter can be trusted:
Based on the criteria above, of great concern is that the first ranked article on Google for a search of “best pulse oximeter in Australia” is an article “Where to buy pulse oximeters in Australia” on bhg.com.au - lists 5 cheap pulse oximeters, and not a single one of these pulse oximeters list TGA approval or clinical validation in the respective product descriptions.
So is it possible to purchase a clinically validated, TGA approved fingertip pulse oximeter online in Australia today?
The iHealth Air PO3M Wireless Fingertip Pulse oximeter is an excellent choice if you are searching for a clinically validated, medical-grade, TGA approved pulse oximeter. The iHealth AIR PO3M pulse oximeter is trusted by medical professionals not only in Australia, but all over the world, due to its accuracy, reliability and durability.
(FitTrack Australia recommends consultation with your healthcare provider for advice on the suitability of pulse oximeters for your personal health needs. Home pulse oximeter use does not replace professional medical consultation or advice from your doctor or health care provider)
So how does the iHealth AIR PO3M Fingertip Pulse Oximeter measure up to the criteria listed above?
The iHealth Air pulse oximeter is a ‘smart device’ in that it is wireless and connects via bluetooth to the companion app (iHealth MyVitals). This powerful wireless connectivity not only enables measurements (SpO2, Plethysmograph, Heart Rate) to be tracked in real time on the app, but enables the device to be used for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring (if you are a health care provider and are interested in Remote Patient Monitoring, do not hesitate to contact us for further details). The iHealth AIR Pulse Oximeter can accurately measure the oxygen saturation of your blood.
The fact that the iHealth AIR Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is clinically validated, TGA approved and used by medical professionals throughout Australia gives you confidence that this is a medical grade device that is reliable, accurate and can be trusted.
The iHealth AIR PO3m Wireless Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is a wireless device which syncs via bluetooth to the companion app (iHealth MyVitals) on your phone / tablet. It enables real time measurement display (SpO2, Plethysmograph, Heart Rate & PI) and also allows you to share results with your healthcare provider.
This iHealth AIR pulse oximeter syncs with the iHealth Myvitals app. This is a mobile medical record of your SpO2 and pulse history. The app also syncs with the whole iHealth ecosystem of connected health devices.
The iHealth pulse oximeter has an Advanced Accuracy algorithm built-in to ensure your measurements. The iHealth AIR pulse oximeter has been clinically validated by an external / independent body.
The iHealth pulse oximeter is a rechargeable device with built-in Li-ion 3.7V 390 mAh battery. It is recharged using a micro-USB cable.
If you are a sports enthusiast, climber, pilot or simply don’t have a need for a medical grade, TGA approved pulse oximeter or a looking for a reliable and affordable pulse oximeter, FitTrack Australia also has Jumper Medical pulse oximeters in stock including the Jumper Medical JPD-500D and JPD-500H children’s pulse oximeters. These pulse oximeters are FDA registered. We also have a range of hybrid smartwatches (Withings Scanwatch) which can perform SpO2 measurements.
It is important to consult with your healthcare provider or doctor for advice on the suitability of pulse oximeters for your personal health needs. Home pulse oximeter use does not replace professional medical consultation, advice diagnosis and assessment from your doctor or health care provider.
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The current Omicron strain COVID-19 surge has put significant strain on hospitals, health care providers and supply chains leading to disrupted services and a shortage of essential medical supplies such as Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT), Pulse Oximeters and Non-Contact Infrared Thermometers. As one of Australia’s premier suppliers of TGA approved / FDA registered Pulse Oximeters & Thermometers, FitTrack Australia experienced unprecedented demand for pulse oximeters (such as the clinically validated iHealth AIR PO3M Wireless Pulse Oximeter) and infrared thermometers. Pulse Oximeters were selling out before reaching our warehouse in Sydney, and we felt the desperation from many customers who were themselves unwell or caring for their immunocompromised family members.
Whilst many cheap pulse oximeters flood online retailers, the accuracy and reliability of these can be called into question. To discern whether a pulse oximeter can be trusted, it is important to ascertain the following:
FitTrack Australia is an authorised retailer of the iHealth AIR PO3M pulse oximeter, which is a clinically tested, medical grade, TGA Approved wireless pulse oximeter, and is used throughout Australia by medical professionals, doctors and hospitals. This convenient easy-to-use medical grade device is an excellent pulse oximeter for home use, and has the option for advanced remote patient monitoring, so that measurements can be synchronized and shared with your doctor.
The iHealth AIR Wireless Pulse Oximeter is in stock and available now at FitTrack Australia for immediate shipping.
FitTrack Australia is also a supplier of Jumper Medical pulse oximeters (which are FDA registered). The models include:
We also have numerous smartwatches capable of pulse oximetry such as the Withings Scanwatch range.
We encourage you to consult your health care provider if you are unsure or require further advice on the suitability of pulse oximeter devices for your health care needs.
As Western Australia nears the opening of its borders, many Western Australians have asked if it is possible to get an iHealth AIR PO3M wireless pulse oximeter in WA? Yes - we do ship to all areas of WA, from Perth to Esperance to Broome, and even to the outback Gibson Desert Nature Reserve.
In some countries, those who are infected with COVID-19 but whose condition has not deteriorated have been provided with Pulse Oximeters to monitor their blood oxygen saturation levels. This enables them to quickly discern a deteriorating condition and seek urgent medical help.
Another condition of concern that has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic is “Silent Hypoxia”. There have been numerous cases worldwide, in which people who have otherwise not exhibited symptoms such as shortness of breath or lightheadedness or other COVID symptoms, have presented themselves at the hospital only to discover dangerous low blood oxygen levels. Left undetected, Silent Hypoxia is deadly and many who have eventually ended up in emergency departments with this insidious condition have done so too late, as they weren’t aware of being unwell as they weren’t exhibiting obvious symptoms.
Having access to a pulse oximeter would enable those who are experiencing sub par blood oxygen levels to realise that their blood oxygen saturation levels are too low, even though they aren’t exhibiting any obvious symptoms.
Prior to the invention of non-invasive pulse oximeters, a small amount of blood had to be drawn and tested to get an accurate reading of blood oxygen saturation levels, or during surgery, anaesthesiologists often had to rely on unreliable measures of tissue oxygenation, such as by observing how red the blood of a patient seemed after a surgeon made the initial incision into the patient. The dangers of not having instant oxygen saturation measurements available are obvious, as undetected hypoxia could quickly lead to emergency situations such as cardiac arrest.
In 1974, Electrical Engineer Takuo Aoyagi devised a mathematical formula that significantly improved the accuracy of previous devices attempting to measure blood oxygen saturation, by taking into account that blood flows through arteries in pulses rather than in a constant flow. Modern pulse oximeters are based on the principles developed by Dr Aoyagi. Dr Aoyagi received a medal from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in 2015, for innovations in healthcare technology. Despite Dr Aoyagi’s innovative discovery, his employer, Nihon Kohden Corporation failed to commercialise the technology.
Then, in 1978, William New, an anaesthesiologist and intensive care physician (and electrical engineer) at Stanford University Medical School, invented the prototype of the modern pulse oximeter. A few years later he founded Nellcor, the manufacturer of the first commercially available pulse oximeter. The Anesthesia Consultant writes “Steve Jobs changed our way of life with the introduction of the iPhone. In parallel, Bill New changed the world with the introduction of the pulse oximeter. No single device in the 20th century changed medical care more than the oximeter. Nellcor’s successful production, marketing, and sales efforts of their pulse oximeter changed not just anesthesia practice, but medical practice, forever.”
Pulse oximeters have come a long way since the early days. Now a lightweight battery powered fingertip pulse oximeter with an on device OLED or LED display can be purchased by anyone. Devices such as the Jumper Medical JPD-500D Fingertip Pulse Oximeter (FDA registered) are powered by AAA batteries, and simply require clipping onto the fingertip and the press of a button for instant SpO2, Heart Rate and Perfusion Index measurements and a live waveforms displayed on the OLED screen. Advanced devices such as the TGA approved, clinically validated iHealth AIR (PO3M) Wireless Pulse Oximeter take pulse oximetry one step further by offering bluetooth connectivity & synchronization with a companion app which can not only display but record these metrics for future reference or for sharing with health care providers or remote monitoring systems.
A pulse oximeter can help identify conditions that can change blood oxygen levels or SpO2. such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma, lung cancer, pneumonia, anaemia, and even heart failure. If a person's Sp02 levels are subpar, it is an indication of the existence of a condition that requires medical attention.
Pulse oximeters work by emitting red and infrared light through the fingertip or earlobe to detect oxygen levels in your blood. Measurements are non-invasive, accurate, simple and fast.
Many pulse oximeters are also able to provide a perfusion index (PI) reading. Put simply, the Perfusion Index is a measurement of the pulse strength or blood flow at the measurement site. A poor perfusion index measurement for a well placed pulse oximeter may indicate health issues. Perfusion Index can also be used to determine the suitability of a measurement site.
Often our first introduction to a pulse oximeter was probably our first visit to the emergency department of a hospital or upon being admitted to hospital for treatment or surgery. We would have had an oximetry probe attached to our fingertip, and we may have been fascinated watching our heart rate displayed on the device’s screen, and may have even wondered what SpO2 referred to. So pulse oximetry has long been something viewed as being in the realm of medical centres and hospitals.
But is it necessary to have a pulse oximeter at home? Through COVID-19 many government health departments and health care practitioners have encouraged patients, especially those who exhibit symptoms, are immunocompromised, have been exposed or who are known to be infected, to monitor their blood oxygen saturation. Sub-optimal blood oxygen saturation can be an early indicator that someone is unwell and requires urgent medical attention. In some cases, patients suffer from ‘asymptomatic hypoxia’ in which their blood oxygen levels are dangerously low but do not exhibit significant symptoms such as shortness of breath, and often present themselves too late for treatment at hospitals.
In light of this, we believe that pulse oximeters should definitely be part of every home’s first aid kit, as digital thermometers have been for decades now.
In light of the recurrent COVID surges as new variants emerge, many nations have experienced periodic pulse oximeter shortages, as has Australia over December 2021 & January 2022. Many prudent customers have preemptively purchased our advanced, reliable and trusted pulse oximeters and are making them part of their home first aid kits.
FitTrack Australia is proud to have in stock the following fingertip Pulse Oximeters:
Our pulse oximeters are covered by an Australian warranty and ship from our Sydney warehouse.
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We are excited to have more stock of the popular iHealth AIR Pulse Oximeter. Many love the convenience of being able to sync, record and track their SpO2 measurements on their phone (via the iHealth MyVitals) app and also to be able to share readings with their primary care provider.
FitTrack Australia is happy to have more iHealth AIR pulse oximeters in stock now.
There are a multitude of cheap fingertip pulse oximeters available online and at chemists around Australia. There are a couple of significant differences that make the iHealth AIR Pulse Oximeter superior:
Put simply, pulse oximetry is the measurement of the oxygen level or oxygen saturation (SpO2) - the amount of oxygen-carrying haemoglobin - of the blood. It is used to show how well oxygen is being carried throughout your body. As we breathe, we inhale oxygen into our lungs, which then binds it to haemoglobin that then travels throughout the body carrying oxygen.
Typically a pulse oximeter is clipped on to the finger (or other extremity such as a toe or earlobe) to measure how well oxygen is reaching parts of your body furthest from the lungs / heart.
Pulse oximetry is a very effective non-invasive method that can quickly identify any health condition that affects blood oxygen levels, including:
According to Mayo Clinic, normal Sp02 levels are between 95% and 100%. Anything below 90% is considered low.
Hypoxemia is defined as low levels of oxygen in the blood. Hypoxia is defined as low levels of oxygen in the tissue. If the body isn't able to maintain normal oxygen saturation levels this leads to hypoxemia. Prolonged hypoxemia can lead to hypoxia, however they do not always coexist.
According to a BMJ article: "In most patients who die of acute covid-19, the initial illness advances insidiously, sometimes with “silent hypoxia” (hypoxia without clinically perceptible symptoms of dyspnoea)".
Personal pulse oximeters used in the home setting can detect hypoxemia associated with acute COVID-19. However it is very important to note that home pulse oximetry is not a replacement for professional medical care and assessment. It is crucial to consult your primary care provider, GP or visit the local emergency department if you have any concerns or are not feeling well.
FitTrack Australia is also thrilled to have the Withings ScanWatch - the most advanced Hybrid Smartwatch - which is capable of measuring SpO2 levels on demand:
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Did you know that the iHealth AIR Pulse Oximeter, Thermometer, SMART Blood Glucose Monitor & Blood Pressure Monitors (FEEL, VIEW & TRACK) are TGA Approved and trusted by doctors, hospitals & clinics throughout Australia?
So when you purchase one of the iHealth Labs range of wireless smart health monitoring devices, you can have the utmost confidence that you are buying a product that meets stringent TGA requirements for medical / health related devices for sale and use in Australia.
Our range of iHealth health devices include:
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