What is heart rate variability (HRV)?
Heart rate variability (HRV) is the natural variation in time between each heartbeat. While often tracked by smartwatches to indicate fitness levels or stress, its clinical significance in cardiovascular health remains limited. Dr Ravi Assomull shares his expert view on HRV and recommends more established diagnostic tools for assessing true heart health.
Learn more about Environmental risk factors or book a consultation with Dr Assomull – no GP referral needed, appointments typically within one working day.
Transcript
Heart rate variability refers to the slight fluctuations in time between each heartbeat. It's a very popular mechanism employed in typically tracking devices, smart watches, and the belief is that it gives you an idea of how fit you are. Certainly, we know that as you get older your heart rate variability drops.
If you are stressed or down with a viral infection, it tends to drop. My view on heart rate variability is it's a very personal thing and it's something you can use to track how well you are generally. In terms of your overall cardiovascular health, there are more established ways of looking into this, which we can certainly help you with if you were to come and see us.
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