Irregular Heartbeat Indicator

What it means

The VitaCheck M1 monitors your pulse rhythm during each blood pressure measurement. If two or more irregular intervals are detected during a single reading, the irregular heartbeat indicator (a heart symbol with a wavy line) appears on the display alongside your results.

How it works

During cuff deflation, the monitor analyses the timing between detected heartbeats using oscillometric waveform analysis. A clinically significant variation in beat-to-beat intervals triggers the indicator. This is not a diagnostic tool — it is a screening indicator designed to alert you to potential irregularities.

When not to worry

• Movement during measurement — even slight arm or body movement can disrupt the signal and produce a false positive.
• Talking or coughing — respiratory changes affect the oscillometric signal.
• Occasional single appearances — isolated irregular readings are common in healthy individuals.

When to consult a healthcare provider

• The indicator appears on three or more consecutive readings taken under correct measurement conditions.
• You experience symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.
• You have a known heart condition and notice a change in the frequency of the indicator.

Disabling the indicator

The irregular heartbeat indicator cannot be disabled as it is a safety feature required by the device classification. The indicator does not affect the accuracy of your blood pressure reading.