Frequently Asked Questions

Below you’ll find our most frequently asked questions. The answers to most questions can be found below, or you may find our user manual has the answers you seek.  If you have a question that you don’t see an answer to, then please contact us.

Can SeizAlarm detect seizures?

It can detect seizure-like/abnormal movement and/or elevated/low heart rate (if using the Apple Watch) and automatically notify emergency contacts. Detection is done using either the sensors on the iPhone or the Apple Watch. Using the sensors on the Watch is more accurate and using the Watch also allows you the option of heart rate based detection which isn’t available with the iPhone alone. We make no claims regarding the accuracy of detection, but we do offer sensitivity controls within the app so that you are able to customize it for yourself. SeizAlarm does not convert your iPhone or Apple Watch into a medical device and is not intended to be used in the diagnosis, monitoring, prevention, or treatment of disease.

What seizure types can be detected?

Primarily tonic-clonic seizures or other motion based seizures since the primary detection method uses the motion sensor and proprietary motion detection algorithms to detect seizure-like motion.

Though, since SeizAlarm also offers heart rate monitoring it could catch potential seizures that include elevated or low heart rates.

Is SeizAlarm FDA Approved?

SeizAlarm is not an FDA approved, certified or registered medical device.  SeizAlarm does not prevent seizures, should not be used for diagnosis, treatment, mitigation or cure of any disease and and is not a substitute for medical care.  Use of SeizAlarm should be a supplement to other medical treatments you are already using.

How long should I expect my Apple Watch battery to last?

Users of the models from the past couple of years have reported that the battery has been lasting over 15 hours after optimization. Following our optimization tips help you get the optimium about of battery life.

How will emergency contacts be notified and what will they receive?

Emergency contacts will receive a phone call, text message, and email letting them know the user needs help with the GPS coordinates of where the user is located. You have complete control over which contact methods are used for each contact.  Which means that with one caregiver you could have them just receive calls where another receives calls and text messages.

Does SeizAlarm offer international support?

Yes we sure do! Just make sure to include a “+” along with your country code before the number (example: +441234567890). If you should have any issues with a number not working, let us know.

Note: At this time we do not support China due to their governmental ban of calls from automated calling services.

How close do the Watch and the iPhone need to be for Watch monitor to work?

The Apple Watch uses Bluetooth to communicate with each other.  The range for Bluetooth is 30 ft, so SeizAlarm will work if the Watch is within 30 ft of the connected iPhone.  If you have an LTE model Apple Watch and it has a service plan, then the distance is limited by mobile service area.  Also, it will work if both devices are on the same wifi network.  

Do I need the LTE Apple Watch model for SeizAlarm to work?

No, you do not.  Though, the LTE model does allow you to use SeizAlarm when outside of the range of the iPhone it is connected to.  This can be for an LTE watch directly connected to your iPhone or one that you have linked to your SeizAlarm account using the “Family Setup Watches” feature. 

Does SeizAlarm work the Apple's "Family Setup" feature?

Yes. SeizAlarm now works with LTE Watches set up with Apple’s Family Setup.  You just have to add the Watch in the settings of the app.  You will generate a link code and you enter that code on the Watch to complete adding the Watch to the account.

Can SeizAlarm be used on children?

Yes!  We have many subscribers that use the Watch for their children.  The only requirement is that the Apple Watch firmly attaches to their wrist.  It is worth noting that children are quite active so there may be a higher level of false alarms compared to an adult.  You can use the sensitivity controls in the “Settings” to customize detection for your child.  Compliance is another condition to keep in mind.  Some children may take off their Watch or play with the buttons on the Watch, which could prevent monitoring.

What if a help request is accidentally sent or needs to be cancelled?

Once a help request is sent, you can cancel the help request and emergency contacts will be notified that help is no longer required. If the user has initiated a delayed help request via the use of the “Time Delayed Help” button and the user ends the request before the delay period has transpired, then no notification will be sent to the emergency contacts.

Can I exercise while I have monitoring enabled?

It depends on the type of exercise.  Since detection is based off of motion and heart rate, you will most likely have many false alarm during rigorous activities.  An exercise such as yoga most likely will not lead to abundant false alarms while jogging would.

Does SeizAlarm support multiple emergency contacts?

Yes! You will be asked for the contact information of the primary contact when signing up as it is required that you have a least one emergency contact. After signup, you are able to manage and add additional contacts within the app.  There is no limit to the number of contacts you can set up.

How quickly will emergency contacts be notified?

Speed varies on carrier signal strength and connectivity of both the SeizAlarm user as well as their emergency contacts. Also, the user can control the delay for the “Time Delayed Help” button within the settings.

Do I have to have an Apple Watch for SeizAlarm to work?

No, the Watch adds the convenience of being able to request immediate help and initiate time delayed help requests from your wrist. Using the Apple Watch also allows more accurate motion detection and the extra option of detecting elevated heart rate.

If you are only using the iPhone for detection, it must be firmly attached to you. This could mean a tight pocket for example.  If it in a loose location there will be more motion thus leading to more false alarms.  We highly recommend the use of an exercise arm band to connect the iPhone to your arm.  This results in less false alarms and it also is more accurate.

 

What Apple Watch models does SeizAlarm support?

SeizAlarm is currently compatible with the Apple Watch Series 3 through the Series 9. The original (Series 0) and Series 1 and Series 2 are no longer supported due to Apple dropping support for future WatchOS updates on that model.  At the minimum we recommend the Series 5 or the SE models, since Apple does drop support for older models over time.

Can SeizAlarm predict or prevent seizures?

Unfortunately, it cannot. The app can only detect seizure-like motion or elevated heart rate once a possible seizure has started.

Can I provide my data to my doctor?

Yes you can.  Within the log, there is an option to export the log as a PDF.

How do I purchase the help request subscription?

The subscription must be purchased within the app.  You will find the option at the top of the “Settings” screen.  You will be taken to another screen and you will be presented the option for a monthly or yearly recurring subscription.  We use Apple’s built in subscription system which makes the process very seamless.  You will then use Apple’s subscription manager to manage your subscription.  Funds will come come from your Apple iTunes account. 

Is SeizAlarm secure and will my data be provided to third parties?

Your data is secure. Data sent to and from the iPhone and Apple Watch to our servers is encrypted in both directions.  Also, we do not sell your data to any third parties, even for research purposes.

What is the difference between the “Help Request” and “Time Delayed Help” actions?

The “Help Request” button should be used if you feel a need for immediate assistance. The “Time Delayed Help” button can be used if you have frequent mild to moderate auras (simple-partial seizures), but not all lead to tonic-clonic seizures. Using this button starts a timer for a delayed help request. If the delayed help request is not ended manually by the user after user-controlled set period of time, then a help request is sent to your emergency contacts. This options can also be used if you are experiencing any other symptoms you believe could be a precursor to a seizure.

Which phones work with SeizAlarm?

Currently we have support for the iPhone SE (and all other phones released from 2016) and above running iOS 13+.  At this time we do not have an Android version of the app.

Can SeizAlarm be covered by insurance

In most cases no, since the alert subscription doesn’t require a prescription.  But there are some organizations that sponsor support for some individuals, so it is possible someone could pay for your subscription if you qualify for such a sponsorship.  Note: We are not able to provide a list of organizations that may do this.

Do I need internet access for SeizAlarm to work?

Yes, without internet access the app cannot send the notifications to emergency contacts. Emergency contacts will need their mobile or landline phone to receive the call.  They would need a mobile phone if you want them to receive text alerts.

How much does the SeizAlarm help request service cost?

There is no cost for the app, but there is a $17.99 USD/month -similar cost to a few fancy coffee drinks – or $179.99 USD/year (17% discount) subscription required for seizure detection and the help request service.  Less than a lot of other services with similar features.  Without the alerting subscription, users are able to log seizures manually but will not be able to send help requests.

We do not do tiered pricing where we have different features at different price points. We offer almost all of the features that other detection services do for one low price.

Notice: Due to ever increasing infrastructure costs we may raise prices over time.  

Does SeizAlarm play an audible alarm?

Yes, in addition to contacting your emergency contacts you can use the Siren feature to play an alarm.  This would allow others around you know you need help.  This is an optional feature, so you do not have to use it if you do not wish to. There are several siren sound options to choose from.

You can also choose to have it say a custom verbal message.  For example, you could have it give instructions for seizure first aid.

Should I buy an Apple Watch because I want to use SeizAlarm?

The idea for SeizAlarm was that you could use a device for detection that you may already own so that you do not have to buy an additional device.  Buying an Apple Watch is a large investment, so purchase the Apple Watch for the thousands of other apps you can use in addition to SeizAlarm.  Remember SeizAlarm can be used without an Apple Watch as well.

Do you plan to add support for non-Apple phones in the future?

Android phones are on our radar as far as providing the ability to request help and send warnings, but we do not plan to add detection to those devices at this time. We want to first focus on iPhone and Apple Watch to fine tune and make it the best it can be before branching out to other devices.

How do I cancel my subscription?

Since SeizAlarm use Apple’s built in subscription system, we are not able to make changes to your subscription, which means we can not cancel it for you.  Here is an article Apple has provided that walks you through the steps to manage your subscription.  https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202039

If you want a refund you will have to call Apple Support to make that request.  https://support.apple.com/billing

Do you have instructional videos or a manual?

We do not yet have instructional videos, but we do have a user manual.  The good news is that SeizAlarm is pretty straightforward, so it isn’t too complicated to learn how to use it.

How does help request text message opt-in and opt-out work?

When you add an emergency contact’s phone number within the app, they are sent an email asking them to opt-in if they would like to receive your help requests via text message.  If they opt-in by clicking an opt-in button within the email, then help requests will be sent to them if a potential seizure has been detected.

Emergency contacts can opt-out at anytime by simply responding with “STOP” to any message received from SeizAlarm to no longer be contacted via text.  Additionally, within the app, you can disable text messages as a method to deliver help requests to them. 

If you or your emergency contacts have a non-US phone number, message rates may apply if your/their mobile plan charges for incoming messages from US-based phone numbers. Text messages are only sent for help requests and are not used for other communication purposes.

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SeizAlarm is not an FDA approved medical device.  SeizAlarm does not prevent seizures, should not be used for diagnosis, treatment, mitigation or cure of any disease and and is not a substitute for medical care. Use of SeizAlarm should be strictly used for enhancing lifestyles.

Emergency contacts must consent to receive text messages for help requests to be sent via text. They can opt-in by responding to an opt-in email, and they can opt-out at any time by replying "STOP" to any text message from SeizAlarm.