It is crucial to understand your oxygen saturation levels since every cell in your body requires an adequate supply of oxygen to function correctly, and oxygen is indispensable to life. Insufficient oxygen levels can be hazardous and may cause significant health issues. In this blog, we will provide you with knowledge regarding oxygen saturation levels and their importance. Read on to discover more!
What Is Oxygen Saturation?
Oxygen saturation is a measurement of the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood, expressed as a percentage of hemoglobin currently bound to oxygen. This vital measurement is crucial for the proper functioning of all cells in your body, as they require a consistent supply of oxygen to operate effectively. While your body regulates oxygen levels, low oxygen saturation levels can pose serious health risks.
Measuring Oxygen Saturation Levels
Oxygen saturation can be measured through pulse oximetry. A pulse oximeter is a device that is placed on a patient's finger and utilizes infrared light and red-light wavelengths to provide the oxygen saturation level. The results are based on the ratio of oxygenated hemoglobin to deoxygenated hemoglobin; readings are given in a percentage form. The normal range for adults is 95-100%, if someone's oxygen saturation level is lower than 90%, it is lower than normal, and they would be considered hypoxemic.
Another way that oxygen saturation levels can be measured is through arterial blood gas testing (ABG). This form of testing utilizes a blood sample to measure the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood. An ABG test can provide oxygen saturation levels (02Sat), oxygen content (02CT), hemoglobin, and more. At the Advanced Care Respiratory Network, we provide trusted oxygen services including arterial blood gas testing, so find out more about how our team can help you here!
Understanding Low Oxygen Saturation
The signs of insufficient oxygen levels or hypoxemia consist of headache, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, confusion, and a bluish tint in the skin called cyanosis. People who have underlying medical conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are particularly vulnerable to hypoxemia. It is crucial for such individuals to comprehend the significance of monitoring their oxygen saturation levels. Inadequate oxygen levels can be extremely hazardous and may cause harm to vital organs. Understanding your oxygen saturation levels can be simple after reading this blog! If you need assistance or have any further questions about what your oxygen saturation levels mean, please reach out to our team, we are happy to help!