If you are a healthy individual with controlled asthma, then your oxygen level should be around 95-100%. However, the oxygen level can be around 90-95%, due to
- Higher altitudes
- Temperature extremes
- Physical exertion
- Low oxygen concentration in your vicinity
It’s normal for COPD and individuals with lungs issue to have an oxygen level from 88-92%. If it drops from 88%, it’s dangerous for vital organs. Under 80%, the organs gradually start to stop working.
When to seek emergency care
Seek emergency care, if you observe following in a patient
- Severe shortness of breath frequently that inhibit your ability to function
- Rapid heartbeat, cough, and fluid retention at high elevations (above 8,000 feet, or about 2,400 meters) accompanied by shortness of breath
- High-altitude pulmonary edema.
When to seek doctor
- Shortness of breath during rest
- Shortness of breath due to slight exertion
- Abrupt awakenings due to shortness of breath
- Wheezing coughing due to shortness of breath
- inability to inhale and exhale properly
Self care
- Measure oxygen level through a pulse oximeter
- Measure pulse rate with the help of oximeter
- Avoid smoking (active and passive smoking)
- Take preventive measures at home, when you experience shortness of breath
- Stay in shape
- Eat and drink healthy
- Avoid overexertion
- Do recommended exercise
- Take proper medication
- Visit your doctor on weekly bases
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