It is crucial that you know what your readings mean when using a pulse oximeter at home.
How can you best respond to normal, safe, and low blood oxygen levels?
Blood oxygen levels are vital as they give information about how oxygen is being transported around the body.
A cell can hold up to four oxygen molecules. It is essential to have enough to sustain vital organs like the heart and brain at their best.
In other words, your vital organs need to have a healthy level of oxygen in your blood at all times.
This is called oxygen saturation and can be measured with a pulse oximeter.
Blood Oxygen Saturation Levels Pulse Oximeter Readings
Pulse Oximeter Readings
The percentage of oxygen in your blood is what determines your oxygen levels. is your SpO2 level.
Normal Blood Oxygen Levels
is the normal blood oxygen saturation rate. It can be between 95% to 100%.
‘Concerning’ Blood Oxygen Levels
It is considered a concern if oxygen levels fall between 91% to 95%. If you see a reading that falls within this range, it could indicate a medical problem. It is best to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Low blood oxygen levels
A low blood oxygen rate can be medically defined as a percentage that falls below 90% oxygen saturation. This level is a sign of a medical emergency. If blood oxygen saturation drops below this level, you should immediately dial 911.
Below 85% Oxygen Saturation Levels
A patient’s oxygen saturation levels fall below 85%, which means that the brain is suffering from oxygen deprivation. The symptoms include vision problems, loss of vision, and total blackout.
Cyanosis
Cyanosis will adjust blood oxygen saturation to 67%.
Your skin will develop a blue tint due to a lack of oxygen transport by your blood cells. The first to be affected are your lips, mouth, and under your fingernail matrix. Next, the spread will occur over the rest of your body.
Last words
When using a home pulse oximeter, it is important to understand your blood oxygen saturation levels. You should take action if your reading is lower than 95%