WebMD Now: Wearable Health Tech Wonders

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Health gadgets are advancing so fast that instead of just counting steps, you'll be able to count on them to improve your health in some truly incredible ways. First up, invisible health monitors. You thought that fitness bracelet was pretty cool, right? Well, get this. One company has developed a stretchable, flexible patch you wear on your skin that could let your doctor monitor important health markers wirelessly.

The technology is also being used to develop sensors that can be placed inside sports helmets to measure the severity of head blows and potentially lead to better diagnosis of concussion and other sports injuries. While these devices won't be fully tested and ready for some time, talk about smaller, better, less invasive health tech.

Next, how about a wristband that gets under your skin? OK, not literally. But this technology uses light to see into your blood and measure oxygen, CO2, pH, hydration, and blood pressure levels. It's similar to what hospitals use now when they clip that device on your finger to check oxygen levels and pulse. These devices haven't hit the market just yet, but once they do, imagine-- fewer invasive tests and needles.

And speaking of needles, if you're one of the 29 million Americans with diabetes, keeping track of your blood sugar pain-free could soon be right before your eyes. Google is developing smart contact lenses with an embedded glucose monitor that measures sugar levels through your tears. This ouch-free tech wonder could be commercially available soon.

Amazing stuff, right? Cool devices like these coupled with regular checkups are the next wave in making sure you live a longer, happier, and healthier life.