Air Force Veteran Diagnosed With Sleep Apnea After Apple Watch Alert

An Apple Watch Ultra alert helped identify undiagnosed sleep apnea in David Aladejobi, a 38-year-old Air Force veteran, according to a report by Military.com. The veteran initially ignored the notification but later sought medical advice after reflecting on his snoring and persistent headaches, which his doctor linked to sleep issues.

Aladejobi shared a screenshot of the Apple Watch alert with his physician, who subsequently diagnosed him with sleep apnea. The doctor referred him to a sleep lab and prescribed a CPAP machine to regulate his breathing overnight. Aladejobi noted that untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications, including high blood pressure or death, making the early warning significant.

How the Feature Works

Apple Watch sleep apnea notifications launched two years ago and operate quietly in the background, according to 9to5Mac. The feature uses the device’s accelerometer to detect breathing disturbances during sleep. It evaluates this data over a 30-day period and notifies users when consistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea are detected.

The notification is not a medical diagnosis but serves as a prompt for users to consult a healthcare provider. Apple states that the alerts are intended for adults who have not already been diagnosed with sleep apnea. The system requires users to enable sleep tracking and wear a compatible Apple Watch to bed for at least 10 nights within the evaluation period.

Who Is Affected

The sleep apnea notification feature is available on specific Apple Watch models, including the Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 9 or later, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later. Users must ensure their devices are compatible and that sleep tracking is actively enabled for the feature to function.

Aladejobi’s case highlights how the technology can identify health issues in individuals who may not realize they need testing. He described the experience as valuable because the watch was already being worn and paid for, urging him to seek professional medical attention for symptoms he had previously overlooked.

What should you do?

Users with compatible Apple Watch models should ensure sleep tracking is enabled in their health settings. If a notification appears, users should consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation rather than relying on the device for a diagnosis. Keeping the watch on during sleep for at least 10 nights in a month is necessary for the feature to generate alerts.

What to do and how to stay safe: Apple Watch

• Verify that your Apple Watch model supports sleep apnea notifications and that sleep tracking is enabled.
• Wear your compatible Apple Watch to bed consistently to allow the accelerometer to collect sufficient data.
• Consult a healthcare provider if you receive a sleep apnea notification or experience symptoms like snoring or headaches.
• Review your health app settings to ensure you are receiving notifications for significant health metrics.

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Frequently asked questions

Which Apple Watch models support sleep apnea notifications?

The feature works with Apple Watch SE 3, Apple Watch Series 9 or later, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 or later.

Is the Apple Watch notification a medical diagnosis?

No, the notification is not a diagnosis but indicates consistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea based on 30 days of data.

How does Apple Watch detect sleep apnea?

The device uses its accelerometer to identify breathing disturbances during sleep and evaluates this data over a 30-day period.