Why does my Oxygen Level Fluctuate?

Fluctuations in SpO2 readings are common, but what matters is whether they are associated with:

• Any known lung disease or
• Any symptoms experienced by the patient.
• For example: shortness of breath, chest pain, dry cough, etc.

In the absence of any of the above, a fluctuating oxygen saturation level between 92 and 97 should not be a cause for alarm, as long as it does not drop below 88 to 90%.

An SpO2 reading below 90 is generally indicative of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and you should seek immediate medical help.

Fluctuating spo2 levels at rest

If you wonder why these fluctuations occur, it is mainly due to changes during physical activity, rest, after sleeping, etc. Although the flow, or volume of blood in our arteries remains more or less constant, the difference in the pulsations can cause slightly fluctuating readings.

What is oxygen saturation?

SpO2, also known as oxygen saturation, is a measure of the amount of hemoglobin that carries oxygen in the blood relative to the amount of hemoglobin that does not carry oxygen.

Oxygen saturation is the fraction of oxygen saturated hemoglobin in relation to total hemoglobin (unsaturated + saturated) in the blood. The human body requires and regulates a very precise and specific balance of oxygen in the blood.

Who needs to monitor their SpO2 level?

In addition to patients with respiratory problems, patients with cardiovascular problems, there is a group of people who should be attentive to their blood oxygen level:

People who snore

Snoring can cause continuous or transient disturbance of breathing and insufficient oxygen inhalation, resulting in poor quality of sleep and even damage to internal organs.

White collar workers

Highly stressed workers consume more oxygen than normal. And if the brain is regularly starved of oxygen, it can cause memory loss, drowsiness, lack of strength, and drowsiness.

High endurance athletes

Endurance, speed, and efficiency are important goals for any athlete, and maintaining an effective oxygen range can dramatically improve overall performance and help develop these components.

Outdoor activities in heights.

As the oxygen level is relatively low on the plateau, those who like outdoor activities, especially hiking and mountaineering, should always pay attention to their SpO2 level to avoid altitude sickness.

How to check oxygen level at home?

This shows that the fluctuation of the oximeter always reflects the health of our body. However, is there a more convenient device compared to single function, heavy pulse oximetry?

Also, how can we accurately measure the level of oxygen saturation in the blood in our daily life?

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