Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
How Is O2 Saturation Level Measured Using Pulse Oximetry Method?
Question: i just bought a pulse ox and when i was feeling anxious i have it on over a period of time, my o2 sat is always 98-99, but it would go down to 93-94 for a few seconds then go back up again, i have tried when i am in bed, when im all relaxed i have even seen it dip down to 87 for again a few seconds then go back up to 98. so basically im just curious why it would go down for a few seconds then go back up. i dont feel short of breath because i can just go about my day being ok. is this normal for a pulse ox to do this? should i be concerned? i just wanted to hear a word from a medical doctor. i am a licensed practical nurse by the way. i am not very experienced yet. i have not even started working yet.
Brief Answer:
It has its limitations
Detailed Answer:
Hello,XXXX
Thanks for using HCM.
I am Dr Rakesh Sharma answering your query.
Normal limits ranges from 95 to 99 percent saturation.
Pulse oximetry measures only hemoglobin saturation.
That is why it has its limitations.
It may vary time to time lets say every few seconds and that is why it is not a substitute for blood gas study.
Low reading can be caused by low blood pressure and rapid pulse rate and cold hands or fingers,smokers but in a person who is not otherwise sick need not worry for little variation.
You should not be concerned at all.
And if you feel you have any breathing trouble you can always consult a doctor.
Hope I have been of some help to you..
If your all queries are answered you can close the question and give rating that encourages us to better in future.
If you have any more query please go ahead.
Have a good day.
It has its limitations
Detailed Answer:
Hello,XXXX
Thanks for using HCM.
I am Dr Rakesh Sharma answering your query.
Normal limits ranges from 95 to 99 percent saturation.
Pulse oximetry measures only hemoglobin saturation.
That is why it has its limitations.
It may vary time to time lets say every few seconds and that is why it is not a substitute for blood gas study.
Low reading can be caused by low blood pressure and rapid pulse rate and cold hands or fingers,smokers but in a person who is not otherwise sick need not worry for little variation.
You should not be concerned at all.
And if you feel you have any breathing trouble you can always consult a doctor.
Hope I have been of some help to you..
If your all queries are answered you can close the question and give rating that encourages us to better in future.
If you have any more query please go ahead.
Have a good day.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
thank you Doctor. i will keep that in mind. take care. :-)
Brief Answer:
You are welcome.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
You are always most welcome.
It is very heartening to know that a young professional is keen to know about the things she going to use in future.You defiantly learn fast as you are a keen learner.
Keep it up.
You are welcome.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
You are always most welcome.
It is very heartening to know that a young professional is keen to know about the things she going to use in future.You defiantly learn fast as you are a keen learner.
Keep it up.
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
