Netherlands develops seizure warning bracelets

The bracelet developed by Dutch scientists keeps track of 2 key indicators of epilepsy: increased heart rate and chaotic muscle contraction, which can help reduce 2/3 of deaths.

According to the journal Neurology, Dutch scientists have developed the Nightwatch smart bracelet that monitors the user's heart rate and movement. In case the device notifies the increase in heart rate and spasms of the seizure-specific muscles, the indicator light will turn red and issue an emergency notice to the medical staff.

The bracelet accurately identifies 85% of seizure cases.

Repeated seizures often occur when there are certain external and internal factors. It is known that a seizure may be a feeling arising from the effects of flashing lights. In addition, epileptic seizures may be associated with menstruation as well as in sync with sleep and wake cycles. In the case of seizures during sleep, it is difficult to control and prevent consequences if no special monitoring devices are used (often by invasive methods).

Scientists at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, led by researcher Johan Arends, developed a bracelet on the patient's hand and followed two key indicators of epilepsy: increased heart rate and chaos. When receiving signals from both indicators, the color of the indicator on the bracelet changes and sends a notification sound to the medical staff.

The effectiveness of the bracelet was tested on 28 patients with epilepsy: each wearing a bracelet for at least 65 nights. In total, the scientists analyzed data through 1,826 nights, recording 809 seizures. The bracelet accurately identifies 85% of seizure cases and accurately reports 96% of dangerous seizures.

Scientists hope that the use of this handy bracelet will not only improve and simplify the monitoring of seizures, but may also reduce the number of sudden deaths from seizures during sleep. .

According to their estimates, the use of Nightwatch bracelets will reduce the number of deaths by two-thirds.