The smart T-shirt that detects hidden heart rhythm conditions
Professor Zachary Whinnett is developing a smart T-shirt that uses AI to detect dangerous, hidden heart rhythm conditions like Brugada and long QT syndrome.
Ellie's story
At age 19, Ellie felt her heart start to beat incredibly fast. After a series of medical challenges and escalating symptoms, she finally found answers regarding her underlying condition.
Ellie, 28, Shropshire
Ellie was 19 when she began experiencing episodes of a fast heartbeat.
She was diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and underwent treatment, including medication and an ablation procedure, but her symptoms didn’t go away. As time went on, Ellie began having blackouts and struggling with severe anxiety.
Ellie was eventually diagnosed with long QT syndrome, a heart rhythm abnormality that can be inherited and cause dangerous heart rhythms. Her family are currently undergoing genetic testing to see if there is an inherited link.
Throughout her diagnostic journey, BHF's Heart Helpline helped Ellie better understand inherited heart conditions and supported her in finding the information she needed.
Today, Ellie has an implantable loop recorder fitted, a small device that continuously monitors her heart rhythm. By sharing her experience, she hopes to raise awareness of inherited heart conditions and the importance of getting symptoms checked.
Diagnosing heart rhythm conditions sooner
Getting a diagnosis for conditions such as long QT syndrome isn't always straightforward.
“What can’t be underestimated is the impact that British Heart Foundation helping you can have.”
Ellie
Changes in heart rhythm can come and go, meaning they would not always show on a standard electrocardiogram (ECG). This can make it difficult for doctors to identify people who need treatment.
Professor Zachary Whinnett and his team are working on a new approach that could change this.
The team is developing a smart T-shirt with built-in sensors that can monitor the heart for longer periods of time compared to an ECG, and capture detailed information. This new approach could help doctors uncover and treat hidden heart rhythm conditions more quickly - and BHF-funded research is helping to make it possible. Donate now to help fund lifesaving research and keep us beating.
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