Oxygen Levels

[icesktr189]

I had my oxygen level taken today and it was at 88. Is this something I should be worried about???

[juliegee]

Was your doctor worried? If it was taken by an oximeter (thingee where you clamp your finger in), they are notorious for improper readings on us dysautonomiacs. My docs surmise that our vasoconstriction or hypovolemia doesn't provide for a readily readable pulse in our extremities. That doesn't translate to too little oxygen to our hearts, brains, lungs UNLESS you are having symptoms consistent with that. I think a blood draw from the femoral artery to study blood gases is the only 100% reliable way to know for sure.

I've been told by my pulmonologist not to worry about it

[icesktr189]

I am really dizzy and lightheaded, but I have horrible allergies right now. They just told me to follow up with my cardiologist.. Thanks though! I kinda figured dysautonomia would do that.

[janiedelite]

Next time if they get a low reading like that, they can actually clamp the oximeter onto your earlobe. They shouldn't be affected by peripheral circulation issues. That should give you a true O2 reading.

[shoegal]

88 is low, you can buy a pulse ox at any drug store, may be worth keeping an eye on it

[juliegee]

I agree, Dani- 88 is quite low IF you are having symptoms. Mine's low when I feel OK. Check with your doc.