Irregular pulse? AI bot helps check for AFib risk instantly

How to use the chatbot
If you’ve noticed your pulse feels uneven, too fast, or skips beats, this tool can help you understand what might be going on. Start by describing your symptoms in simple terms—like “my heart feels like it’s fluttering” or “my pulse is racing randomly.” The chatbot will ask follow-up questions about how often this happens, if you’ve felt dizzy or short of breath, and your medical history. It doesn’t replace a doctor, but it helps you organize your observations and learn about next steps.

What the chatbot does
This AI tool focuses on 5 key areas to support heart health:

• Flags irregular rhythm patterns: Recognizes descriptions of pulse irregularities that might align with atrial fibrillation (AFib).
• Links symptoms to AFib likelihood: Connects your reported symptoms (e.g., fatigue, palpitations) to how common they are in AFib cases.
• Educates on stroke risk: Explains how untreated AFib can increase stroke risk and what factors matter most.
• Based on CHA₂DS₂-VASc model: Uses a well-known clinical framework to estimate stroke risk based on age, gender, and health conditions.
• Suggests next monitoring steps: Recommends simple, accessible ways to track your heart rhythm (like pulse checks or wearable devices) and when to consult a specialist.

Why these features matter for your health
Short-term impact
Catching irregularities early can prevent complications. For example, if the chatbot flags a pattern linked to AFib, you might get an ECG within days instead of weeks. Early action means fewer risks of sudden events like fainting or blood clots forming. The chatbot also helps you communicate better with doctors, saving time during appointments.

Long-term impact
AFib is often a silent condition. Left untreated, it can lead to stroke or heart failure. The chatbot’s education on stroke risk helps you prioritize prevention—like managing blood pressure or discussing anticoagulants with your doctor. Using the CHA₂DS₂-VASc model, it identifies risk factors (e.g., age over 65, diabetes) and encourages proactive lifestyle changes or monitoring.

Real-life examples

1. Case A: A 50-year-old user reports occasional palpitations. The chatbot suggests checking their pulse for 1 minute daily and notes that occasional irregularities might be harmless. It recommends a wearable device for tracking and provides a list of questions to ask their doctor.
2. Case B: A 70-year-old user with high blood pressure describes a racing pulse. The chatbot explains their higher stroke risk using the CHA₂DS₂-VASc framework, encourages immediate ECG, and offers to connect them with a cardiologist.

Facts and life hacks

• Check your pulse: Place two fingers on your wrist or neck. A normal pulse is steady and between 60–100 beats per minute. Irregular skips or bursts might warrant further review.
• Keep a symptom journal: Note when irregularities happen, how long they last, and what you were doing (e.g., exercising, stressed). The chatbot can help interpret patterns.
• Know the risks: AFib raises stroke risk 5x. But managing it (e.g., blood thinners, lifestyle changes) can reduce that risk by 60%.
• Use wearables wisely: Devices like smartwatches can track heart rhythm, but they’re not perfect. The chatbot guides you on which ones are FDA-approved and how to share data with your doctor.

Methodologies behind the tool
The chatbot uses AI trained on thousands of ECG datasets and peer-reviewed studies about AFib. It mimics the CHA₂DS₂-VASc scoring system, which assesses stroke risk based on factors like congestive heart failure, age, diabetes, and hypertension. By asking targeted questions, it helps users understand their personal risk profile and the importance of monitoring.

Practical recommendations

• Talk to your doctor: Use the chatbot’s summary of symptoms and risk factors to guide your conversation.
• Monitor regularly: Check your pulse daily or consider a wearable device if symptoms recur.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Reduce caffeine/alcohol, manage stress, and stay active—these habits stabilize heart rhythms.
• Stay informed: The chatbot updates you on AFib research and connects you with specialists if needed.
• Set up a health assistant: Let us create a personalized Telegram or website assistant to remind you to check your pulse, track symptoms, or even suggest recipes for a heart-healthy diet. Name your price—it’s your health, your rules.

Remember, early awareness is powerful. Whether you’re checking for yourself or a loved one, this tool empowers you to take control of heart health with science-backed insights. Let’s start the conversation.