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The normal blood oxygen levels are a measurement of the saturation of oxygen in the blood. The red blood cells contain a molecule known as hemoglobin that binds to the atmospheric oxygen, and carries it to different parts of the body. When there is any kind of variation in the levels of oxygen in the blood, it can lead to health complications. Pulse Oximeter Fingertip, Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor for Pulse Rate, Heart Rate Monitor and SpO2 Levels with OLED Screen Display Batteries and Lanyard Included 1 Count (Pack of 1) 4.7 out of 5 stars 31,287. 2 days ago  A pulse oximeter is a small device that measures the oxygen saturation or percentage of oxygen in the patient's blood. The device can be clipped on the toe or ear lobe. Blood oxygen saturation is a measure of how much oxygen is in your red blood cells. Within these red blood cells, iron attaches to oxygen atoms, transporting the oxygen to organs throughout the body. Within these red blood cells, iron attaches to oxygen atoms, transporting the oxygen to organs throughout the body.

Adrian Pristas, M.D. contributes to topics such as Sleep Medicine.

There has been a recent spike in sales for pulse oximeters, the small device used to measure the level of oxygen in your blood. Apple also just announced that the new Apple Watch Series 6 comes with a blood oxygen sensor and app. So, why is the spotlight on this health metric?

To get the inside scoop on blood oxygen levels and pulse oximeters and why there’s growing interest in both, we spoke to Adrian Pristas, M.D., pulmonologist and corporate medical director, Centers for Sleep Medicine at Hackensack Meridian Health.

Q: What does “blood oxygen level” mean?

Dr. Pristas: “Blood oxygen level” describes the amount of oxygen you have circulating in your blood. Our bodies need oxygen to function. Oxygen enters the body through the nose and mouth and passes through the lungs into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, oxygen helps replace cells that wear out, provides energy for our bodies, supports the way our immune system functions and more. Low blood oxygen levels indicate that there may be an issue with your lungs or circulation.

Q: Why is there increased interest in blood oxygen levels?

Dr. Pristas: People started to buy pulse oximeters to measure blood oxygen levels at home when they learned that low levels could be a sign of COVID-19. Shortness of breath is a well-known symptom of COVID-19, but it’s not always easy to detect. Some thought this device could be a tool to help self-assess for signs and symptoms. There have also been reports of “silent hypoxia” where peoples’ oxygen levels are dangerously low, but they don’t necessarily experience shortness of breath.

Q: What’s a normal blood oxygen level, and when should I be concerned?

Dr. Pristas: If you’re using a pulse oximeter to measure your blood oxygen level, a normal reading is a 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 devises are handy and non-invasive, they are not always 100% accurate. In fact, Apple says its new blood oxygen feature should only be used for general fitness and wellness purposes and should not be used to diagnose, monitor or treat any medical conditions. Other tests, performed by health care providers, include blood draws or breathing tests to accurately measure blood oxygen levels. If your Sp02 is below 95% you should consult with your health care provider.

Q: Can a pulse oximeter detect COVID-19?

Dr. Pristas: A pulse oximeter cannot detect COVID-19, however, it can help you monitor for signs and symptoms associated with the virus. Having a low blood oxygen level could be a sign of COVID-19, but it can also be a sign of other health issues that need to be discussed with your health care provider. Either way, if you are monitoring your blood oxygen levels at home with a pulse oximeter, contact your health care provider if your Sp02 drops below 90-95%.

Q: How does a pulse oximeter work?

Dr. Pristas: Using a pulse oximeter is painless. The small device simply clips on to your finger, and beams of light measure the amount of oxygen in your blood, as well as your heart rate. The small beams of light analyze the color and movement of your blood cells. Dark red blood cells indicate a lack of oxygen, while bright red blood cells indicate the right amount of oxygen. If 95% of the blood cells are bright red, while 5% are dark red, your Sp02 would be 95%.

You can also attach a pulse oximeter to your toe, earlobe or nose, but it is commonly used on your finger. Once the Sp02 reading appears, you can remove it.

Q: Should I monitor my blood oxygen levels at home?

Dr. Pristas: There are some scenarios when your doctor might recommend you monitor your blood oxygen levels at home. If you have an underlying health condition, like heart or lung disease, or you are in the process of recovering from COVID-19, it could be helpful for you to keep an eye on your blood oxygen levels. However, if you do choose to monitor from home, talk to you doctor first about how to properly use the device, understand your reading and interpret the results. For example, if your hand is not steady during the reading you could see varying saturations from a faulty reading.

If you’re otherwise healthy, it’s not necessary to have a pulse oximeter or any other device to monitor your blood oxygen levels at home. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor for personal advice.

Next Steps & Resources:

Oxygen Levels In The 70s

• Meet our clinical contributor: Adrian Pristas, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Pristas or a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905.
• Looking for guidance on how to reopen safely? Learn more about our Reopening America program.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care

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Want to improve your oxygen levels? Let us help with these tips.

For those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the ability to take in oxygen is a constant struggle. It’s possible to increase oxygen levels in other ways, such as cellular therapy. If you or a loved one is finding normal breathing difficult, the Lung Health Institute has compiled the top 5 ways to improve your oxygen levels.

Blood Oxygen Level Apple Watch

5.) Stay Fresh, Stay Natural

There are natural alternatives to increase oxygen in your home. Adding plants such as the areca palm, snake plant, money plant, gerbera daisy or Chinese evergreens can actually increase the oxygen in your home naturally.

Try adding natural air purifiers such as salt lamps, beeswax candles, peace lily and bamboo charcoal to help keep the air in your home cleaner.

4.) Be Calm

Relaxation techniques can help someone with COPD. When you’re calm, deep breathing becomes easier, stress levels lower and your oxygen levels can improve. You can try meditation, yoga, positive thinking exercises and writing in a journal to help you relax, breathe and improve your oxygen levels.

3.) Healthy Fluids

Staying hydrated can be challenging, but it can also help you improve your oxygen levels. Water molecules or H2O are made of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. Drinking enough water will help you stay hydrated. When you’re hydrated, it’s easier for your blood to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the rest of your body.

If you want to try other fluids, then fresh juices and smoothies might be a good choice. Because fresh fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, juicing them can help you receive their benefits in a more easily digestible form.

2.) Eat for Oxygen Success

Even though certain foods such as dairy and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli can cause COPD symptom flare-ups, there are other healthy options. Try eating fresh, steamed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, potatoes, carrots and green beans. Before starting or changing your diet, be sure to discuss it with your doctor.

Cutting down on your salt intake can help you reduce excess fluid and bloating. Instead of salt, try herbs and spices such as peppermint, oregano and turmeric, which are all herbs that can help your lungs. When your lungs are breathing more easily, you’ll have improved oxygen levels, helping you feel better overall.

1.) Cellular Therapy to Improve Oxygen Levels

Oxygen is important to all of the functions of the body. However, for someone with a chronic lung disease, it can be difficult to get enough oxygen. For many people, cellular therapy has helped them improve their oxygen levels, breathe easier and improve their overall quality of life. Cellular therapy may promote the healing of lung tissue, potentially improving lung function. When lung function improves, you are able to take in more oxygen as well as expel carbon dioxide because your lungs are working more effectively.

Like many people with chronic lung diseases, Lung Health Institute patient, Joseph O., was on supplemental oxygen 24/7. Ready for a change, Joseph came to the Lung Health Institute for treatment. After his treatment, Joseph feels better than ever and is off of his oxygen completely.

If you or a loved one has COPD, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis or another chronic lung disease, the Lung Health Institute may be able to help. Contact us.

A patient care coordinator is waiting to hear from you. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. Call Toll-free 888-745-6697

Have you tried any of our steps? Tell us about your experience! Share your thoughts and comments on the 5 Ways to Improve Your Oxygen Levels below.