If you’re using a pulse oximeter to measure your blood oxygen level, a normal reading is an Sp02 level that’s between 95 and 100 percent. However, this may vary for people with certain medical conditions, such as lung disease.
Speak with your doctor to determine what ‘normal’ is for you and keep in mind that while these at-home devices are handy and non-invasive, they are not always 100% accurate.
If your Sp02 is below 95% you should consult with your health care provider.
Pulse oximeter reading meaning
One of the most isolating and scary aspects of the pandemic is that people who have or suspect they do are often told to monitor their symptoms at home and to go to the hospital only if they need immediate medical help, particularly if they have shortness of breath.
But would you recognize emergency-level shortness of breath if you experienced it?
Based on the recent uptick in online sales of pulse oximeters—devices you typically place on your fingertip to measure the amount of oxygen in your blood—many people are looking for help to assess their breathing and make sure they are getting enough oxygen.
But some people ordering these devices from Amazon or other retailers have reported long delays.
These devices, which usually cost $20 to $80, use small beams of light that pass through your finger to measure how much oxygen your blood is carrying (also known as your blood saturation level), and your pulse (or heart rate).
Blood oxygen level chart
Pulse oximeters may be useful because blood oxygen saturation levels that start trending downward could be a sign that your lungs are faltering and that you need to call your doctor.
When you breathe in air, tiny capillaries in your lungs absorb the oxygen, allowing it to enter your bloodstream. Red blood cells then carry that oxygen to tissue throughout your body, including your brain and other vital organs. A low oxygen level in your blood could lead to low oxygen in your tissues, and, ultimately, organ failure.
Pulse Oximeters: Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 2 readings on a pulse oximeter?
A finger pulse oximeter measures two things:
-Blood Oxygen Saturation
-Pulse Rate
Normal pulse rate in Oximeter
A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 70 to 99 beats per minute. Generally, a lower heart rate at rest implies more efficient heart function and better cardiovascular fitness.
How to use Pulse Oximeter?
Do you own an oximeter? … If so,
Do you know how and when to use it? … It could save your life. Many of those who become ill experience a sudden drop in blood oxygen levels a day or two before their lungs fail.
Pulse Oximeters
- What is the best pulse oximeter?
- What is a normal oxygen saturation level?
- Are any oximeters made in the USA?
- Pulse oximeters FDA approved and more…