The normal oxygen saturation is 97-100%, and the elderly usually have lower oxygen saturation levels than the young. For example, someone over 70 years of age may have an oxygen saturation level of about 95%, which is an acceptable level.
It is important to note that the oxygen saturation level can vary greatly depending on the health of the person. Therefore, it is important to understand the baseline readings and the underlying physiology associated with certain conditions to account for oxygen saturation levels and changes in these levels.
People who are obese or suffer from lung and cardiovascular diseases, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congenital heart disease, and sleep apnea tend to have lower oxygen saturation levels. Smoking affects the accuracy of pulse oximetry, where SpO2 is low or falsely high, depending on whether there is hypercapnia. For hypercapnia, it is difficult for a pulse oximeter to distinguish between oxygen in the blood and carbon monoxide (caused by smoking). When speaking, blood oxygen saturation may decrease slightly. The blood oxygen saturation of anemia patients may remain normal (for example, 97% or higher). However, this may not mean that there is sufficient oxygenation, because the hemoglobin in people with anemia is not enough to carry enough oxygen. Insufficient oxygen supply during activities may be more prominent in patients with anemia.
Incorrect hypoxic saturation levels may be related to hypothermia, decreased peripheral blood perfusion, and cold extremities. In these cases, an earlobe pulse oximeter or arterial blood gas will provide more accurate oxygen saturation levels. However, arterial blood gases are usually only used in intensive care or emergency situations.
In fact, the SpO2 range that most customers usually accept is 92-100%. Some experts recommend that SpO2 levels of at least 90% can prevent hypoxic tissue damage and ensure user safety.
Post time: Mar-01-2021