It’s important to compare your reading to your baseline numbers. Is your reading higher or lower than this number?Ĭompare it to your baseline numbers. Most people need an oxygen saturation level of 89% or higher to keep their cells healthy. Here are a few general guidelines when interpreting your pulse oximeter reading:Ĭheck your oxygen saturation level. This will vary from person to person so, if you’re not sure what’s right for you, it’s always best to ask. If your healthcare provider has recommended you use a pulse oximeter at home, they should give you instructions for what to do if the readings are higher or lower than expected. The number below or next to “HR” (heart rate) or a heart symbol is your pulse. The number below or next to “SpO2” is your oxygen level. Once you’ve taken your reading, the device will display two numbers: your oxygen saturation level and your pulse. In just a matter of seconds, the oximeter will show you your pulse and oxygen levels. Relax your hand below heart level and sit still. When you clip it on, you may feel a slight pinch or pressure, but very little to no pain. Here are basic instructions for most oximeters:īefore you clip the device on your finger, make sure your hand is warm and your fingernail is free of polish. Jot down your numbers in a notebook with the date and time to track your readings. For most healthy people, your reading will generally fall between 95% and 100% (but this can vary, which we’ll cover later). If your healthcare provider prescribes a pulse oximeter, ask them to show you how to use it, when to take a reading, and how often. They should not be used for medical purposes. They’re not reviewed by the FDA and may be less reliable than prescription pulse oximeters. OTC pulse oximeters: These are sold online or in pharmacies without a prescription. ![]() In some cases, your provider may prescribe one for at-home use. They’re typically used in settings like healthcare providers’ offices and hospitals. Prescription pulse oximeters: These are tested for accuracy and reviewed by the FDA. There’s a big difference between a prescription device and one that you can purchase over the counter (OTC): But not all pulse oximeters are created equal. You can order a pulse oximeter online or pick one up at the pharmacy. That's because low oxygen is a serious symptom of many lung diseases, and it's often a sign that you need medical attention. This helpful tool gained popularity during the COVID pandemic, but it has always been useful for people with chronic breathing problems. What is a pulse oximeter?Ī pulse oximeter is a small device that clips to your finger or earlobe and measures the amount of oxygen saturation in your red blood cells (called SpO2). ![]() Here, we’ll cover how to use a pulse oximeter, how to interpret results, and when to see your healthcare provider. What’s more, a recent report suggests that your reading may not be as accurate if you have darker skin, too. According to the FDA, there are a number of factors that can affect accuracy, including poor circulation, skin thickness, smoking, and even fingernail polish. ![]() A pulse oximeter measures the amount of oxygen in your blood and alerts you if your levels drop below what’s considered normal.īut pulse oximeters aren’t always accurate. If you have COVID-19 or other lung conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), your healthcare provider may recommend that you monitor your oxygen levels at home with a pulse oximeter.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |