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The proper level of blood oxygenation only began to be widely discussed during the dangers associated with the coronavirus pandemic. Who among us has previously been interested in what saturation is, what a pulse oximeter is for, and what are the standards for blood oxygenation? Oxygen is essential for us to live and function properly, and testing its parameters is one of the steps paramedics take when checking our vital signs. So let's take a closer look at both saturation and how to measure it at home.
Saturation, an indicator of the body's lack of oxygen
The level of blood oxygenation is one of the basic measures of our health. Saturation (Latin: saturato – saturation of a liquid with gas), a measure of blood oxygen saturation, is an important indicator for both paramedics who come to the aid of COVID-19 patients, as well as doctors and nurses who care for the health of post-operative patients, with respiratory failure, after bronchoscopy procedures or pregnant women. Monitoring blood oxygen saturation is one of the standard activities that help assess the health of people staying in the hospital.
Due to age, periodic or chronic respiratory problems, asthma, and respiratory difficulties associated with coronavirus infection, oxygen saturation measurement is increasingly performed at home. It is possible thanks to widely available finger pulse oximeters, which measure oxygenation levels quickly, painlessly, and precisely.
Saturation what is its norm? What is the critical value of saturation?
The level of blood oxygenation appropriate for a healthy person is between 95 and 98%. Results above 98% are appropriate only for patients undergoing oxygen therapy in hospital settings. Indications below 95% mean a reduced level of blood oxygen saturation, with critical values being below 70% (direct threat to life). Constant, low saturation is associated with the risk of serious brain damage and death.
Blood oxygenation in an adult should be in the upper ranges, but it is worth noting that smoking cigarettes (it slightly lowers its level) affects saturation, as well as atmospheric pressure (staying in high mountains is associated with periodic hypoxia of the body), chronic respiratory diseases and age (in people over 70 years of age, the saturation range is 94%-98%).
Symptoms of hypoxia
Low saturation can manifest itself as:
- A feeling of shortness of breath
- The feeling of limited ability to take in air
- Sleepiness
- Unnatural tiredness
- Decreased physical performance
- Acceleration of heart rate
If the result of the pulse oximeter measurement is within the norm, the symptoms listed above may not be related to the saturation level and should be consulted with a specialist. If the result is not within the healthy range, and the test, repeated and conducted in the appropriate conditions and in the appropriate manner, indicates the same result, inconsistent with the norm, we should also consult a doctor. The saturation level, let us repeat, is one of the basic parameters of our health.
Measurement of saturation with a pulse oximeter
First of all, let's take a closer look at the described norm. What does a saturation of 96% mean? This level of oxygenation of the body indicates that at the time of the test, 96% of hemoglobin transports oxygen to our cells, allowing us to function normally. Our most important organs can survive without oxygen for only a few minutes - oxygen is essential for us to live.
Saturation is measured with a pulse oximeter . This electronic device measures the degree of hemoglobin binding to oxygen, presenting it as a percentage. Saturation is described by the abbreviation SpO2, and the measurement result looks like this: SpO2 97%. In addition to saturation, the pulse oximeter also indicates the pulse.
How to use the device? A pocket-sized pulse oximeter is usually placed on the finger. Hospitals often use larger models that offer additional functions and allow diagnostics also from the earlobe or the tip of the nose. Testing saturation from the finger is simple and quick. The finger device should be placed on the index or middle finger, with the fingernail facing up. It is worth noting here that when preparing for the test, make sure that the nail plate is clean and not covered with varnish or artificial material (gels, tips). When it comes to interference with the measurement, in addition to the covered nail surface, cold limbs and movement during the reading can have a significant impact on the test result. When approaching the test, check whether your hands are warm (after returning from a walk, it is worth giving yourself a moment to warm up and reach its proper temperature), and also stop any other activities for a moment.
Did you know that we also offer pulse oximeters? Check it out!
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