Provided are methods of monitoring for a hemodynamically significant heart rhythm disturbance. The methods include obtaining baseline photoplethysmography (PPG) data from an individual, obtaining PPG signals from the individual during a monitoring period, comparing the PPG signals obtained during the monitoring period to the baseline PPG data, and producing an output when a hemodynamically significant heart rhythm disturbance is detected. In some aspects, the heart rhythm disturbance is detected based on a threshold reduction in PPG amplitude in the PPG signals obtained during the monitoring period compared to the baseline PPG data for a selected period of time； a threshold decreased slope in the initial positive deflection in PPG signals obtained during the monitoring period compared to the baseline PPG data for a selected number of consecutive beats； or both. Also provided are computer-readable media and computing devices that find use, e.g., in practicing the methods of the present disclosure.
