Pulse oximetry: A sensor that slips over your finger measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. Pulse oximetry is painless and noninvasive. Many doctors use it routinely each time you visit. Arterial blood gas test: A needle is used to take a blood sample from your artery to measure the levels of oxygen in your blood. Other breathing tests. Oxygen Levels, Pulse Oximeters and COVID-19 (March 1, 2021) How does COVID-19 lower a person’s oxygen levels? Some people with COVID-19 have low levels of oxygen in their blood, even when they feel well. Low oxygen levels can be an early warning sign that medical care is needed.
Oxygen level under 88%, in any case, is dangerous for vital organs. Around 80%, the organs gradually start to shut down. Before the patient experience that stage, he/she should be rushed to the hospital.
- Cognitive problems occur below 85%
- Mental impairment happens below 65%
- Below 55% leads to consciousness loss and death
What is pulse oximeter
The pulse oximeter is a non-invasive device that is used to measure the oxygen level in the blood. Its readings are accurate and are used to monitor patients having health issues.
Benefits of pulse oximeter
The pulse oximeter not only measures your oxygen level in blood but also the pulse rate. It is used in the following scenarios
- To check if a ventilator is working
- To monitor how much physical exertion a person can tolerate
- To monitor the oxygen level during and after surgery
- To see the oxygen level in a person having lung issues
- Measure the pulse rate and oxygen concentration in the people having breathing issues
Normal oxygen level in blood
Oxygen levels in healthy individuals should be around 95-100%. However, due to higher altitudes, temperature extremes, and exertion, the value might decrease to 90-95%.
In the case of COPD and people with lung issues, it’s normal to have an oxygen level in the range of 88-92%. Oxygen level under 88% can be life-threatening.
Overview
What is hypoxemia?
Hypoxemia occurs when levels of oxygen in the blood are lower than normal. If blood oxygen levels are too low, your body may not work properly.
Blood carries oxygen to the cells throughout your body to keep them healthy. Hypoxemia can cause mild problems such as headaches and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can interfere with heart and brain function. Hypoxemia that causes low oxygen levels in your body’s tissues is called hypoxia. Sometimes people use the two terms interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.
Symptoms and Causes
What causes hypoxemia?
Pulse Oxygen Level Monitor
A variety of conditions and circumstances can interfere with the body’s ability to deliver normal levels of oxygen to the blood. Some of the most common causes of hypoxemia include:
- Heart conditions, including heart defects
- Lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis
- Locations of high altitudes, where oxygen in the air is lower
- Strong pain medications or other problems that slow breathing
- Sleep apnea (impaired breathing during sleep)
- Inflammation or scarring of the lung tissue (as in pulmonary fibrosis)
What are the symptoms of hypoxemia?
Symptoms of hypoxemia vary depending on the severity of the condition. They include:
- Shortness of breath
- Fast heartbeat
- Coughing
- Confusion
- Bluish color in skin, fingernails, and lips
Diagnosis and Tests
How do doctors diagnose hypoxemia?
To diagnose hypoxemia, your doctor will do a physical examination to listen to your heart and lungs. Abnormalities in these organs can be a sign of low blood oxygen. Your doctor may also check to see if your skin, lips, or fingernails look bluish.
Doctors use tests to check your oxygen levels, including:
- Pulse oximetry: A sensor that slips over your finger measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. Pulse oximetry is painless and noninvasive. Many doctors use it routinely each time you visit.
- Arterial blood gas test: A needle is used to take a blood sample from your artery to measure the levels of oxygen in your blood.
- Other breathing tests: These might involve breathing into tubes that are connected to computers or other machines.
Management and Treatment
How do doctors treat hypoxemia?
Treatment for hypoxemia aims to raise the levels of oxygen in the blood. Doctors can use medications to treat underlying conditions that cause hypoxemia. These medications are often given through an inhaler that enables you to breathe the medicine into your lungs.
In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe oxygen therapy. People typically receive extra oxygen through a device called a cannula (tube) that is clipped to the outside of the nose, or through a breathing mask. The location and amount of time people receive oxygen therapy is based on individual needs. You may receive oxygen at home, with a portable machine while you travel, or in the hospital.
What are the complications or side effects of hypoxemia?
If your blood does not have enough oxygen, it cannot deliver enough oxygen to the organs and tissues that need it. This situation can be fatal if severe in the short term and can affect the heart or brain if it persists over a long period of time.
Prevention
Can hypoxemia be prevented?
There are steps you can take to prevent hypoxemia from returning after treatment. To increase the oxygen levels in your blood, your doctor may recommend:
- Deep breathing exercises
- Mild exercise such as walking or yoga
- Eating a healthy diet
- Drinking plenty of water
- Quitting smoking
Outlook / Prognosis
What is the outlook for people with hypoxemia?
Hypoxemia symptoms can go away with treatment. Depending on the cause, people with hypoxemia may require treatment once or on an ongoing basis. Your doctor will work with you to manage the condition so you can live an active, healthy life.
Pulse Oxygen Level Chart
Living With
Low Pulse Oxygen Level
When should I call a doctor regarding hypoxemia?
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Contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of hypoxemia. Early diagnosis and treatment can help ensure the condition does not get worse and cause dangerous complications.