Measuring your oxygen levels

Keeping track of your blood oxygen level can help you better manage your condition. It can also help catch early warning signs. If you have a lung condition like COPD, it’s important to know your normal oxygen level when you’re feeling well. This ‘baseline’ can be helpful in recognising changes in your condition over time.

What is blood oxygen?

Blood oxygen, or oxygen saturation, measures the percentage of oxygen in your blood. Knowing this number helps assess if your body is getting enough oxygen. Normal oxygen saturation is typically between 95-100% for most people. People with lung conditions may have different target ranges. It’s important to understand what’s normal for you.

How is blood oxygen measured?

Blood oxygen is measured using a pulse oximeter, a small device that clips onto your finger. It uses light to calculate your oxygen saturation level. Pulse oximeters are easy to use, painless, and give instant results.

What is a pulse oximeter?

A pulse oximeter is a portable device that shows two numbers: your oxygen saturation (SpO₂) and pulse rate (bpm). These devices are commonly used in hospitals but are also available for home use. This is especially true for those managing chronic respiratory conditions. It’s a straightforward tool that requires little training.

How to use a pulse oximeter

To get accurate results from your pulse oximeter:

1. Sit Still: Remain seated and relaxed while measuring.
2. Place it correctly: Clip the oximeter onto a finger (usually the middle or index finger). Make sure the finger doesn’t have any nail varnish or a false nail on it.
3. Breathe normally: Allow the device a few seconds to capture a stable reading.
4. Record your reading: Add your reading to Aide when it asks you. You can also do this anytime by sending Aide the message “Record my blood oxygen.”

What is a normal reading?

Normal oxygen levels vary. For someone with a lung condition, their target level might differ from the general guideline. It’s essential to find your “normal” by taking regular readings when you’re feeling well. Monitoring this baseline over time can help you notice any significant changes.

How Aide can help

While Aide isn’t designed for continuous oxygen monitoring like in a hospital, it provides tools to help track your baseline.

For those with COPD or asthma, establishing your “normal” oxygen level when you’re feeling well is essential. Aide can guide you in recording and monitoring this information.

If you notice any significant drop in your oxygen level, you should follow your action plan or flare-up plan. Or contact your healthcare professional.