Customer question:
Are blood oxygen meters available for purchase in pharmacies? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Blood oxygen meters, commonly called pulse oximeters, can be purchased from our online pharmacy. These devices measure hemoglobin saturation with oxygen in arterial blood, which also indicates the success of oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues. When buying a pulse oximeter, it's essential to consider its intended use, make sure it's from a reputable brand, and check reviews and opinions if possible.
If you have specific health problems or concerns, it may help to consult your doctor or pharmacist about the best type and correct use.
What is the normal level of oxygen in the blood?
The average oxygen saturation (SpO2) level in the blood, as measured by a pulse oximeter, is usually between 95% and 100% in healthy individuals. If you are concerned about your oxygen levels or experiencing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, you must seek medical attention.
While 95% to 100% is considered normal for most healthy individuals, oxygen saturation can vary based on several factors, including altitude, certain medical conditions, and specific activities such as exercise. Normal oxygen saturation is lower at higher altitudes, where the air contains less oxygen.
Also, people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or certain heart conditions, may have lower baseline oxygen saturation levels. A SpO2 below 90% is generally considered low and may be a sign of hypoxemia, meaning there is insufficient oxygen in the blood to meet the body's needs. Prolonged low oxygen levels can cause complications that need to be addressed by a doctor.
Although pulse oximeters provide valuable information, they may not always be 100% accurate. Factors such as cold fingers, poor circulation, nail polish, or the quality of the pulse oximeter itself can affect readings.
What causes low blood oxygen levels?
Low oxygen levels in the blood, or hypoxemia, can result from various causes. Suppose it is suspected that someone has low blood oxygen levels, especially if this is accompanied by symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, or cyanosis (a bluish tint to the skin, especially on the lips and fingertips). In that case, they must seek immediate medical attention and medical assistance.
Here are some factors that can cause decreased blood oxygen saturation:
- asthma
- pneumonia
- pulmonary edema
- bronchitis
- cystic fibrosis
- congenital heart disease
- acute respiratory distress syndrome
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- exposure to certain toxins
- congestive heart failure
- drug overdose
- altitude
- pulmonary embolism
- pulmonary fibrosis
- sleep apnea
- obstructions in the respiratory tract
- hypoventilation
- anemia
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