Garmin HRV Heart Metrics and How Illness Affects Them

Garmin smartwatches track various health metrics, including heart rate variability (HRV), which can reflect physiological changes when an individual is unwell. While these devices are not medical instruments and cannot diagnose illness, some users may notice variations in their recorded data during periods of sickness.

According to health professionals, the body’s autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulates heart rate and HRV. The ANS consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, influencing how the body responds to stress and recovery. When illness triggers an immune response, physiological stress can lead to changes in heart rate and HRV. Research published in the National Library of Medicine indicates that even a slight increase in body temperature may elevate heart rate, and infections have been associated with lower HRV levels.

Source Garmin.com

Garmin devices use HRV to inform features such as sleep tracking, stress monitoring, and Body Battery analysis. The Garmin sleep coach considers HRV and other factors to provide sleep recommendations. Stress tracking, powered by the Firstbeat Analytics engine, interprets HRV data to assess the body’s response to various stressors. A decline in Body Battery levels may indicate increased physical exertion, poor sleep, alcohol consumption, or the onset of illness.

Thoughts From Garminology

By tracking HRV and related metrics, Garmin smartwatches provide insights that may help users understand their physiological state. While these devices do not serve as medical tools, they offer data that can support general health awareness. For those who regularly monitor their health and fitness, recognising HRV and heart rate data patterns could be an early indicator to prioritise rest and recovery when needed.