If the waves/lines go all the way to the top, it's a sign that the reading is accurate. A normal blood oxygen level reading for a typical adult should be between 95% and 100% SpO2.įerrante recommends buying a pulse oximeter that also displays either waves or lines because this feature can help determine the accuracy of the reading.In a few seconds, the device will display your blood oxygen level as %SpO2.Avoid moving your hand or finger while waiting for the reading. You shouldn't be cold, shivering, or shaking either. Ensure that the finger doesn't have nail polish, artificial nails, tattoos, or henna on it, as that could affect the reading.When you're comfortably seated, place your index or middle finger inside the pulse oximeter, with the nail facing upward.Make sure the device has batteries and switch it on.Oximeters are easily available online and in supermarkets, and don't require a prescription. In fact, you can purchase a pulse oximeter to check your oxygen levels at home for as low as $25, says Ferrante. Whether you're measuring your own blood oxygen levels at home or you're at a medical practitioner's, you'll typically use something called a pulse oximeter, which is a small device that gently clips onto the end of your finger, says Ferrante.Ĭhecking your oxygen level with a pulse oximeter is a painless, non-invasive procedure that only takes a few minutes to set up. How to measure blood oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter These conditions could potentially lead to brain damage or death. In severe cases, if your brain is getting less oxygen, the cells can start dying within five minutes. Important: While checking your blood oxygen level with a pulse oximeter isn't a substitute for a COVID-19 test, it can help indicate that your condition is more serious than it seems. However, your cells - particularly those in your heart and brain - may be strained or damaged if low blood oxygen levels persist for a long time or if your oxygen levels drop repeatedly. If left for too long your skin may turn blue, a condition called cyanosisĪccording to the American Thoracic Society (ATS), having a blood oxygen level below 89% SpO2 for a short period of time may not cause any harm.Low blood oxygen, aka hypoxemia, can cause symptoms like: Note: For some people, like those with chronic lung conditions, a lower oxygen level between 88% to 93% SpO2 may be considered normal, says Ferrante. Some of the most common causes of hypoxemia are heart and lung conditions, including heart disease, sleep apnea, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aka COPD), and COVID-19. Causes and symptoms of low blood oxygen levels
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