Irregular Heartbeat Symbol
Various Blood Pressure Monitor
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The irregular heartbeat symbol means the monitor detected an irregular pulse during measurement. This does not necessarily mean you have a heart condition — movement, anxiety, or caffeine can cause irregular beats. If it appears frequently, consult your doctor.
Affected Models
- Omron Series 5/7/10
- Withings BPM Connect
- Braun ExactFit
- Most monitors with arrhythmia detection
Common Causes
- Movement during measurement
- Caffeine, stress, or anxiety
- Premature heartbeats (PACs/PVCs — usually harmless)
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib — needs medical evaluation)
- Cold hands affecting sensor accuracy
How to Fix It
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Take the reading again after 5 minutes of rest.
One irregular reading does not mean a problem. Rest and measure again. If the symbol does not appear, it was likely a one-time event.
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Avoid caffeine, exercise, and stress before measuring.
These all cause temporary irregular beats.
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Take 3 readings 1 minute apart and note how many show the symbol.
If all 3 show irregular heartbeat, consult your doctor.
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If it appears consistently: see your doctor.
Consistent irregular heartbeat detection may indicate atrial fibrillation or another arrhythmia. Bring your monitor and readings to the appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I be worried about the irregular heartbeat symbol?
Not from a single occurrence. Occasional irregular beats are normal. If it appears on most readings over several days, see your doctor.
Can a home monitor detect AFib?
Some can detect irregular rhythms that may indicate AFib. But they are not diagnostic devices — only a doctor can confirm AFib with an ECG.