Low oxygen levels will rob you of your eye sight, short term memory, and your energy. Eventually low oxygen levels will weaken your heart muscle.
Heart Failure IS -> Progressive weakening of your heart muscle! (Read that sentence again. It is that important.)
The world is facing an epidemic of heart failure! This ONE health crisis will rob more productive work years from Americans than any other.
Why should you be concerned about oxygen?
Oxygen isn’t typically something you worry about. If you are looking into “low oxygen levels”, you likely heard the term from your doctor. As the caregiver of a loved one, you
might become familiar with the importance of oxygen as a life saving requirement, but fail to realize how effective it can be in minimizing discomfort and maintaining quality-of-
life.
Everyone worries about high blood pressure, carrying extra weight and other issues routine blood work can reveal. It’s all part of the natural aging process and your growing
concern for your health. After all, you don’t ignore your bad health until it kills you if you know better, right?
Being over-weight increases your risk for many diseases, especially heart disease. So, you diet and attempt to get “regular exercise”. Maybe you join a gym, or consider
gastric bypass surgery. You do what it takes because health is important.
High blood pressure is called the silent killer, because it can be deadly without symptoms. Most people know that it’s important to get their blood pressure checked
regularly, just to be safe.
You’ve been told you should worry about your cholesterol levels. Everybody seems to know that reducing your bad cholesterol is important, so your doctor will likely offer
you a prescription to lower your cholesterol if it is elevated. Even if your cholesterol isn’t elevated, your doctor may prescribe Statin medication as a “precaution” when you
have other risk factors for heart disease. (That so called preventative medication might not be such a good idea.
There are plenty of risk factors to worry about. Why add oxygen to the list?
If your doctor is expressing concern about your blood oxygen levels, you should be concerned, too.
You may be inclined to argue with your doctor if he/she would like to see you using oxygen 24 hours a day. It’s fair to say that round-the-clock oxygen therapy is inconvenient and irritating.
It’s also difficult to understand why it is necessary.
What is there to be concerned about?
Consequences of Low Blood Oxygen Level:
• damage eye sight
• deteriorate short term memory
• weaken muscle (your heart is a muscle)
• increase pain
• reduced clarity/focus
• loss of your natural charming disposition
• potentially create life threatening cranial nerve stimulation
Since low-flow home-oxygen is completely safe and doesn’t cause side-effects you are better off to use it than to resist using it and suffer the consequences of low blood oxygen. It isn’t an easy to swallow pill, but it might just be more important than every pill in your pill box.
Oxygen is one prescription you don’t want to second guess.
If your doctor wants you on oxygen, you are crazy to argue.
Does your doctor monitor your blood oxygen levels routinely?
Not all doctors have oximeters (oxygen measuring devices) in their office. If they don’t have one, they have no way to routinely monitor your oxygen level during your physicals, check-ups and illness related appointments.
This isn’t at all unusual. Even if doctors have oximeters, they may not use them unless you have some sort of breathing complaint. It isn’t widely understood, even with doctors, that low oxygen is most often NOT accompanied by shortness-of-breath.
It isn’t at all uncommon for doctors and nurses to minimize the importance of oxygen therapy and to dismiss low oxygen readings if they only last a short period of time.
This approach is much like waiting for things to get worse.
Whether your doctor monitors your blood oxygen level or not, YOU SHOULD.
There is no doubt about it. Taking an active role in your health care can cause you more stress than putting blind trust in your doctor, but if your doctor doesn’t offer you the solution you need, who will?
Doctors are making educated guesses and doing the best they can. Luckily they also have the benefit of a well educated team with many years of combined experience. Good health care requires team work. It can be tempting to allow your doctor to lead the team but NO ONE is more motivated and invested in finding solutions to your suffering than YOU are.
It’s important for you to be aware that your participation is the key to positive results.
Certainly, if your health care team doesn’t successfully uncover the cause of your suffering and eliminate it or otherwise address it, you are the only one who will suffer the consequence. Ultimately, you pay the price for oversights and mistakes.
Unfortunately, low blood oxygen causes devastating consequences.
If your doctor is advocating for oxygen therapy, you are fortunate. Most doctors overlook the harm low oxygen levels are causing and shrug off the importance of monitoring and meeting oxygen needs.
Good quality-of-life is your goal. The damage caused by low oxygen levels prevents you from functioning the way you normally would. How much joy would you lose if your eyesight slowly deteriorated?
As you age, you tend to think you are just getting old and out of shape. The progressive muscle weakening caused by low oxygen levels effects your heart muscle. When your heart muscle is weakened by low oxygen levels your whole world changes, but it doesn’t typically happen all of a sudden.
When you suffer a heart attack part of your heart muscle dies. With congestive heart failure things [more often than not] happen very slowly. The progressive weakening of your heart muscle is gradual. For years your doctor will tell you “your heart is fine”.
Once you know you are living with congestive heart failure, you should understand that oxygen is the key to protecting your weakened heart muscle and to strengthening it.
Low oxygen is a BIG deal. (Ask your questions on the weekly Zoom Call Mondays at 1:00pm Pacific Time)
If your low oxygen levels are caused by lung disease, it’s important to remember that keeping your blood oxygen level above 92% is important to protect your heart.
If your low oxygen levels are caused by heart disease, it’s important to remember that failing to address low oxygen levels will further weaken your heart muscle.
So how low is too low?
7 Facts to Remember About Blood Oxygen Saturation Levels
1. When oxygen saturation levels fall below 92%, the pressure of the oxygen in your blood is too low to penetrate the walls of the red blood cells. It is a matter of gas laws.
2. Your insurance company may not pay for oxygen unless your levels fall to 88% oxygen saturation. This has nothing to do with what is best for you, it is just the point at which your insurance is willing to pay.
3. Every time your oxygen level falls below 92% saturation the cells of your body are oxygen starved.
4. When you fail to meet your oxygen needs, every organ in your body suffers the consequences.
5. Low oxygen levels may be present only at certain times.
- when retaining excessive fluid
- when airways are reacting to irritants
- with respiratory illness
- sleep apnea
- about 3:00am when you wake gasping for air
- with activity when your heart muscle has become weak, though isn’t technically “congestive heart failure”….. yet
6. Recurring low oxygen levels are harmful and should be treated with supplemental oxygen.
7. The problem is that your doctor may not witness your oxygen levels at 88%, and if he doesn’t see that reading on an oxygen meter (oximeter), then most insurance companies will not pay for it, and therefore doctors don’t order it.
Low oxygen levels are definitely something to worry about!
If you feel you may be experiencing low oxygen levels be sure to ask your doctor to check your pulse oximetry reading.
Symptoms of low oxygen are:
- shortness of breath/ difficulty breathing/ dyspnea
- extreme fatigue
- chest tightness
- mental confusion
- tingling fingers
- water retention (especially feet/ ankles)
- chronic cough
If you are experiencing blood oxygen saturation levels below 92% now, waiting for your doctor to witness it below 88% and order oxygen is equal to sitting around waiting to get worse.
Are you concerned?
Join Us on the “Ask Your Health Questions” Zoom Call Mondays at 1:00 pm Pacific Time
Hi Carrie, great info on your website.
I just had an asthma attack and went to a walk in clinic because it was a Sunday. I couldn’t weed for 5 minutes without being breathless and I couldn’t walk up stairs. I had been suffering from a virus / cold for a few weeks and had some wheezing and the 2 prior night I was having a lot of problems breathing, having to sit up to get air, etc. I wasn’t really coughing too much but for I was feeling very tired the previous 2 weeks also and had a numb thumb the night before I got so weak.
Once I got to the walk in clinic my oxygen level was at 98 which is typical for me. I had obvious problems with my bronchioles so the doctor put me on a nebulizer treatment. At that point, my oxygen level was at 89 so she gave me an IV drip of prednisone (which I typically need along with an antibiotic whenever I have a cold and get the asthma complications). That didn’t help any, so she gave me a double dose of the nebulizer and my levels went up to 95 and I was given an Rx for an antibiotic (since I also had an ear infection), an inhaler and prednisone.
I have had many episodes almost as bad as this (with the nighttime breathing problems, fluid retention in my whole body, etc.) when I used to get asthma attacks but I figured since I could still breath, I wouldn’t worry about it. Now that I’ve read your postings, I will be sure to get more vegetables, more Vitamin D (I do have low Vitamin D) and go to the doctor if I have breathing problems from asthma. My mother now has Altzheimers that I feel was brought on from these problems. She had open heart surgery and went down from then but very slowly. I don’t want to have that happen to me. I am now 61 and, other than high blood pressure that I treat with metoprolol and the occasional asthma when I get a cold, I’m in excellent health right now and I want to keep it that way.
Thank you so much for the wonderful posts.
Ann
Aloha Ann,
I haven’t posted here on Heart Failure Solutions in quite a while.
The 2 symptoms you mentioned could be your UNDOING very quickly.
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Join the conversation every Monday and get our action plan for better health working for you as soon as possible!
Be well!
Carrie
hello. i ask you question in regard to low pulse ox level. thank you for your advise. purchase O2 supplementary machine with positive results but can you assist in another question. when ever i visit a doctor and they test my pulse ox. at rest 98%. after 60 second walk, pulse ox drop to 92%. additional 60 second walk, pulse ox drop to 89% and the doctors stop the test. are these level of pulse ox drop normal? i cannot get an answer from any doctor. my history, diagnosed with emphysema, 5x PFT average, pre BD FVC 45%, FEV 45%, post BD FVC 35%, FEV 35% TLC 45%. with out the portable O2, i develop blur vision and headaches but the doctors ignore my inquiry. AND yes i said multiple doctors. i feel abandoned. thank you.
Aloha D,
You ask … “are these level of pulse ox drop normal?”
What do you mean by normal? If you mean, “are these levels of pulse ox drop healthy?”, I’d have to say NO!
However, they are a normal part of the disease process.
The only thing you can do about it is meet your needs and consistently work on better breathing in order to REVERSE your disease process.
Better Breathing means breathe slowly! That might be agonizing until you improve your blood chemistry!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” will teach you what you need to know and The Life Breath Club is a chance to ask your questions. We meet every Monday.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hello,
Back in March 2011 I was told that I have COPD and a Fungus on my lungs. It’s now August and I am now at Stage 3 with a Lung function of 33 percent overall. I am tried all the time and when I sit at times I sweat when it’s not hot. O2 when taken has me at 97 but when i am in the ER o2 levels have sent off alarms and they do nothing. August 29th I am going to do a walk test for 6min, and was wondering can o2 levels be misguided sometimes, I mean when sitting I seem to be fine in o2, but than when i walk or doing I am short of breath and tired. Someone once told me that o2 machine that they use in the doctor’s office and ER they sent the levels and how far low you must be. So my question I am being lied to by these machines?
Aloha Gary,
When you get up and walk you put more demand on your body. There is much more work for your heart when you are active than when you are sitting.
If you have medical insurance, they will pay for home oxygen when your levels are 88% or lower. Demand that they let you engage in normal activity when they check your levels, as this is what you live with every day. Meet your oxygen needs or suffer the consequences.
Even when your oxygen level is very high, the oxygen may not be functional. This has to do with your blood chemistry. Slow exhale is the best thing you can do to improve the functionality of the oxygen in your body. Breathing through your nose is a big help as well.
That advice may sound ridiculously simple to you, but you’d be surprised how simple your solutions may be.
Your situation isn’t a quick fix, but join us every week for an hour, take action on what you learn, and TRANSFORM your health!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive an invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly call.
If you’d like private coaching, email me at lifebreathcoach @ gmail.com
Be well,
Carrie
I am 68 yrs old and live at 8,000 feet and when I exercise with my heart rate over 105, my oxygen level will drop to the high 80s – my question, is this ok for short periods of time – ie, 30 minutes on the tredmill daily.
Aloha Kim,
No it’s not ok to exercise with your oxygen level in the 80s. You are hurting yourself not helping yourself.
Enter your contact information in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting.
Join us and learn how to stop harming yourself!
Be well,
Carrie
Hello, Just found your site this morning in my search for answers. I was dignosed with COPD in 2007 and it has worsened since that time. Have been in the hospital CCU twice within a month due to very low 02 levels in the 70’s to the best of my knowledge. I am weak, have very rapid heartbeat and can’t do anything without the 02 meter hitting 85-88 and sometimes lower. I am suppose to have in-home 02 but I can’t afford it and have no insurance. Local hospital nor the doctors could help me get the oxygen. I have had to cancell doctors appointments because I can’t get to the office in a vehicle. I need portable 02 but can’t get it. I wake up needing air badly. I use my ProAir inhaler then make it to the bathroom where my neubalizer sits and give myself a treatment which seems to help. I have an appointment this Thursday but the outside temp is going to be over 100 and our vehicle has no AC so I can’t go and the doctors probably will stop giving me appt’s because I can’t get there. I ned advice and help. Any suggestions. I have alrady tried the local places that help and they won’t do it.
Aloha GuessMe,
You are in a tough spot. I can instruct you in a few things you can do with your limited resources, though I’d feel more comfortable with a brief history before I do that. Check your inbox for my communication.
Be well,
Carrie
Recently had a sleep study done. They put me on a cpap machine. They said my oxygen level dropped to 74% while sleeping. How dangerous is that?
Aloha Brenda,
Deadly!
Please check out “Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book“. It’s the most important book you will ever read.
Please be safe! If you need a discount coupon I’m happy to offer it, email me at thelifebreathcoach @ gmail.com
Be well,
Carrie
Hi, I’m undergoing investigations as I’m constantly tired. Hubby says I stop breathing in the night and then I snore really loud.I’ve been admitted to hospital for a test where they gave me a sedative to recreate sleep and have just had the results which is highly likely obstructive sleep apnoea though I have to go in for a sleep study overnight to confirm it. The consultant I saw today said my oxygen levels dropped to 64% during the test so i may need a cpap. While this is all ok and I understand it I’m now feeling very scared after reading posts and articles on here….what can I do in the short term to raise my oxygen levels during the night? My tests, diagnosis etc will take about 9 months as the waiting lists are very long
Aloha Dee,
That is a sad story. Did they send you home with oxygen?
Contact your insurance company with your record of low oxygen and you will be able to get them to provide a machine for home use, if this has not already been done. (Demand your doctor cooperate with them if this has not happened yet.)
Oxygen flowing through your nose is not CPAP, but it will go a long way to help you stay out of danger.
By the way, sending you home knowing your oxygen level drops that low WITHOUT home oxygen is LIABLE in my book!
Be well,
Carrie
Hi,
I have been looking for something to explain why my father died. He was 73 years old, had been a smoker for 60 years, and had COPD already. On May 4th he was diagnosed with lung cancer with mets to the liver – Stage IV. He tried 3 weekly rounds of chemo, but the last two he had seizures with and the doctor decided to discontinue it because he was having so much trouble with it. He spent May 26 – June 27th in the VA Care Center. He seemed stabilized, even though we knew the disease was progressing, and wanted desperately to come home. My mom is disabled and couldn’t take care of him, so I brought him to my house.
He was on 5L of O2 and would have to use a supplemental source when he went to the bathroom or tried to walk anywhere because he would run out of air. On Thurs June 30, he wasn’t feeling good in the morning. I called hospice and a nurse was scheduled to come out in the afternoon and check on him. Around noon, his 02 sats dropped to 61 all of a sudden. I tried with supplemental 02 and could only get him up to about 81 at the highest, but mostly around 72-74. His heart rate was pretty steady around 150. The hospice nurse came and had the same results as me.
By this time, my dad’s chest was hurting very, very badly. The hospice nurse gave him morphine and adivan to try and slow down his heart rate. My dad fought the sleepiness and stood up and hugged me and told me “This is it, sis. I’m so sorry.” Then he sat down in his recliner, went to sleep, and died a few hours later. His heart rate went down to about 138-140 after the meds, but his 02 sats never did get above 82.
Did the low 02 sats and high heart rate cause his death? I keep feeling like there was something I should have done differently even though I know he had stage IV lung cancer, and that the doctors had said a few days to a few weeks.
I guess I am just on a search for answers here and trying to know that I couldn’t have changed it. Sorry if this sounds dumb….. I just don’t know who else to ask.
Aloha Lisa,
Please check your inbox for an email from me.
Your father knew that he was ready to pass. It sounds like he left his body with as little suffering as possible.
Bless you and your family.
Be well,
Carrie
Hi Mike: I am so sorry you have suffered so! My cousin was in the Twin Towers and although she made it, many of her co-workers did not. Your courage and sacrifice will be remembered always, although I know that is not much help now! I was diagnosed with Moderate LV Dysfunction and have breathing problems as well. And I know it’s not easy.
Please know you are in our prayers.
Theresa Fleming
Moms For America
moms@momsforamerica.com
Hi Carrie…
I just happened across this website and was glad I did. First of all, thank you for some common sense and straight talk – something those of us with lung issues and breathing problems are often much in need of, in my opinion. I am recommending your site to others. I have had 24 hospitalizations previously, however, have not been admitted for the past seven years – a lot of which I attribute to being pro-active when it comes to my health, educating myself and being my own best advocate.
What brought me to the internet was my wondering if water retention could affect breathing, and if so, how much would one need to retain to have it do so. My feeling was it does. I began having water retention about seven months ago and was prescribed Lasix. There has been no diagnosis as to why I started retaining water, although I have severe asthma and COPD. Heart tests have been in the normal range, and my blood pressure is very good. Reading your site pretty much confirmed my own thoughts.
The other thing I discovered is simple carbohydrates have an effect on how I breathe, as you mentioned. I cut out all refined flour, sugar (even sugar substitutes, etc) and eat so much healthier. This too, has made a great improvement.
Like you, I have no qualms about using oxygen when my body needs it and keep track of my stats. I know heavy exercise or housework can cause a drop and so, I used it whenever I am about to do so, never letting it get under 92, although when prescribed it was for night-time sleeping. I have to admit I had to become pretty adamant about getting on it in the first place, though.
I have been most fortunate that my diagnosis has remained steady, with no decline in FEV1 function since 2006. There is hope out there, just sometimes we have to help ourselves.
Again, thank you for doing what you do!
Aloha Joan!
Your comment made my day. Life has kept me so busy that I didn’t see it til now.
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hello Carrie –
In January 2010, one year ago, I had pneumonia in all areas of the lungs – this was the first time I had had a serious respiratory condition (I am now 62 yrs. old). The pneumonia did not clear with the first course of antibiotics nor with the second course. Into the third month I finally cleared the condition, but was left with chronic fatigue; also contributing was a very demanding job and working 12-14 hrs. a day.
So, in April 2010 I left the corporate world to start a home-based business. The plan was to open for business in early July 2010. With business license issued on July 2nd and doors officially opened on July 6th – on July 9th, 2 1/2 blocks from my home my car was hit by another vehicle (t-boned at my drivers door) leaving me with a mild brain injury (screeching sound in my head, dizziness and imbalance problems with neck spasm and unexplained falls. In December 2010, on the last (4th) fall – I fractured my left patella, requring surgical repair. I requested to have spinal anaesthesia, since I was concerned to undergo general anaesthesea d/t hx of pneumonia – the anaestesiologist was happy to do so and the surgeon as well, commenting that the spinal would lower the chance of blood clot.
This April 2011 I undewent a second surgery to remove the implants that were placed to put my kneecap back together. This time a different anaesthesiologist declined the spinal stating that a general was more appropriate d/t the shorter length of the procedure. None of the concerns I expressed could change her mind and since the surgery was scheduled soon, I agreed to the general anesthesia.
In both the recovery room and on the short stay unit my oxygen saturation level dropped as low as 73. I was asked to breathe deeply, which would bring it up to 92-95. Eventually, I was put on low flow O2 to maintain the oximeter from alarming – which occurred over several hours.
I did not have an opportunity to talk with the anaesthesiologist or my surgeon to ask them why the drop in O2 sat – the nurse could not explain.
Now, I week post-op, I am battling an upper respiratory infection, with moderate coughing, chest pressure and pain between my shoulder blades. I took myself to an open clinic today and they found good air exchange in all areas of the lungs and an O2 sat of 98%.
Do you have any thought as to what may have happened with the drop in oxygen sat level at the hospital and if my symptoms now are related?
My apology for such a long note – and thank you for your time in responding – it is appreciated.
Best Regards,
Barbara
Aloha Barbara,
That is some history! So sorry to hear of your suffering.
Check your inbox for a personal message from me.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Today I randomly had my oxygen checked by a friend while I was getting my pulse taken. My pulse was 97 and my oxygen level was 92… I’m pretty worried, what should I do? I run a mile every other day, so I thought my cardio was fine, but maybe not?
Aloha Tony,
I’d say your cardio is not so fine.
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Many blessings,
Carrie
I just had the finger test for sleep apnea. The Oximetry summary report came in:
Highest SP02-100
Lowest 74%
but time under 90 was only 4.4%
time under 80 was .1%
TIme with under 88 was 1.8% or 6 minutes
Longest continuous time with saturation less than 88 was 1:19
8 desaturation events over 3 minutes (decrease of saturation of 4 or more)
109 desaturations less than 3 minutes Mean HIgh 95.7, Mean low 89.3%
Thoughts on whether I should worry or not?
Aloha Sandy,
Read the post above one more time.
74% is deadly. It doesn’t matter how long!
Many blessings,
Carrie
I had full body checkout the other day where they diagnosed me with anxiety and that thy O2 saturation was at 99% but my nails are now pale as well as one of my earlobes, they are no cold yet but I do not know how long it could be
Thanks if you can help
James
Aloha James,
I can’t get specific without more of your story.
Better breathing is the place to start. Slow exhale!
Becoming a member of “The Increase Your Oxygen Challenge” will help you a lot!
Be well!
Carrie
Carrie, I have scoured the Internet and it has led me here. My mom was in the hospital last week receiving treatment for a UTI. Because of her COPD, she is on oxygen 24/7 – 4 liters when she is active and 2 when she is stationary. After being in the hospital for 3 days, she started becoming very lethargic. after 3 days, they did an ABG test and discovered her PH off and a CO2 level of 68! She was sleeping constantly and was very hard to wake up. She was retaining CO2. Bipap for 24 hours and she was almost completely back to normal. While she was under standard care, I’m almost positive they put on her on 4 liters even when she was in bed. We were getting readings of 100% on her oxygen level. Could 4 liters 24/7 for 3-4 days cause her to retain too much CO2. I’m not looking to blame anyone just wonder if she could’ve gotten too much oxygen and caused her issue?
Thanks in advance! Your website is most helpful!
Aloha Jay,
What you are describing is carbon dioxide retention and it is a change that occurs at the end stage of lung disease.
It wasn’t caused by too much oxygen, it is the result of chronic carbon dioxide (CO2) retention.
Rising CO2 is what tells your brain to breathe. When your body becomes overwhelmed by the constant workload of trying to move enough air to lower your elevated CO2 level, the mechanism that tells your brain to breathe stops listening to CO2 and starts listening to O2. If you are supplementing with oxygen that elevates your oxygen levels much above 92% oxygen saturation when this occurs, your brain will not get any message to breathe. The result is the lethargy you describe and eventually death if the oxygen isn’t lowered in time to restore breathing.
Hope this answers your question. Let me know if you need more help.
Many blessings,
Carrie
PS- Please be aware that too much oxygen is dangerous, but that if her level is allowed to fall below 92% oxygen saturation she will suffer oxygen deprivation and deteriorate as well. CO2 retention is NOT a reason to lower the oxygen and ignore oxygen saturation. Hope that important detail is clear.
Very recently I did an at-home pulse-ox test overnight – insurance related – w/o my bi-pap or even my day-time “oxygen,” which is actually just filtered air. I just now found you while surfing the web to see how bad my reading of 70 was, when I woke up. (I expected the rip-roaring headache, and fog, and falling asleep at the computer just after breakfast, but all I know of the readings is that 96 or higher is good for me during the day.)
Anyway, in an earlier response you said that exercise was out. Please describe the reasoning for that and whether it applies to simple stretching, etc as well as to heavy exertion. Thanks.
Alieda
Aloha Alieda,
You want your pulse ox reading to be 92% or higher at all times. That means that you don’t want it to fall below that during sleep or activity. Stretching is a great idea.
Learning to breath better is your best bet for feeling better. You can be as active as you can tolerate without your oxygen saturation falling below 92%. The reasoning for that is that if you exercise and cause your oxygen saturation to fall into the 80’s or below, you risk causing your heart to spontaneously stop. Whether you feel the damage or not, you risk DEATH when you exercise with low oxygen levels.
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting.
Many blessings,
Carrie
are there any specific foods- may it be fruits or vegetables-when eaten will add oxygen in our body?
Aloha Rina,
I will pass the baton to Dr. Ali. I don’t make anything off of sending you to him, (most of the products I promote I do) but I do so because he is hands down the most knowledgeable authority on this subject.
Dr. Ali on nutrition -> Eat for better oxygenation
Just as important as MORE oxygen, you want FUNCTIONAL oxygen!
Stay tuned for my Increasing Your Oxygen Challenge for the support you need to consistently build better breathing for better oxygenation!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi,
I’m a former rescue (Police) worker who was assigned to the World Trade Center on 9/11 and the months that followed. I began having health issues that started in 2007. I’ve lost my right kidney to cancer, my left kidney is at stage three renal failure, I’ve lost my thyroid and surrounding lymph nodes to a second cancer, I have a brain lesion (could be a third cancer), sinus problems and I have been diagnosed with RADS, Asthma, Bronchitis, Small Airway Disease (air trapping) as well as a near constant cough.
Over the past year (past three months in particular), my breathing has gotten worse. I’m in the process of getting in touch with another pulmonary physician because I’m not happy with the one I’m seeing. Is there anything I can do to slow the degenerative process other than O2 therapy?.
Thank you
Mike
Aloha Mike,
Thank you for your service to our country. I’m so sad that it has cost you so much.
Better breathing is your answer to slowing your disease process.
Stay tuned for my support programs. In the mean time, please do check out better breathing programs.
Optimal Breathing is an amazing program and will really make a big difference quickly.
You’ll find it here -> Breathing Kit
Dr. Majid Ali is an amazing resource for any health issue you might be experiencing. His Limbic Breathing instruction is so wonderful that I promote it without an affiliate link, and I focus much of my Breathing Support Programs on what he teaches. You’ll find his Limbic Breathing Introduction on Youtube here -> Better Breathing Habits
Remove all negative influence in your life, including the news, and spend time visualizing yourself healthy and happy.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Thanks Theresa,
You speak for us all. So sad when public service costs the giver so much.
Sounds like you could use support as well. Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi I’ve recently been diagnosed with COPD. I’m currently on 2 liters of oxygen supplements. I thought that if you exercised you could decrease the existing condition somewhat. I use the oxygen at night only. During the day my oxygen levels usually range about 94%, but when I start to exercise after about twenty minutes my oxygen level drops to about 80%. After I slow down my levels return to about 94% again. My question is if this is dangerous to keep on doing.
Aloha Chuck,
YES! It is very dangerous. Every time you exercise you risk death. Keep your oxygen level at or ABOVE 92% saturation WHILE you exercise or DON’T exercise at all! (That might take more than 2 liters while you are walking, let alone exercising!)
You will live longer!
The best way to improve your condition is to improve your breathing! The Breathing Kit is the most effective method you’ll find to do that! You can find it here -> Breathing Kit
Be good to you, you’re the only you you’ve got!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi. I just found this presentation about low oxygen that I really liked but the product they are promoting is liquid oxygen. What do you think of liquid oxygen supplements, Carrie? Do they work? Reference: http://oxygensupercharger.com/oxygen-deficiency.html
Aloha Emily,
I have no experience with that product so I can’t say it doesn’t have value.
The issue is that better breathing is the only way to maintain healthy CO2 levels which is necessary for maintaining healthy oxygen levels. Without better breathing your health will suffer. No getting around it.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hello, I am only 15 and I am serious about my health right now. I remember when I was 14 and I had to go to the hospital and went to the emergency room because of rapid breathing and I think it was because too much carbon dioxide in my body. The symptom was that my hands were like locking up for example squeezing a rock on both hands and I couldn’t move. I am trying not to get stressed out now. My lips are like blue and I am scared. I always wake up 3 AM trying to get air. I can’t breath through one side of my nose and its killing me because I have problems breathing right. I see that if I squeeze my lips they turn white. I need help!
Aloha Alex,
You are so young!
When you were in the hospital did they check your heart thoroughly? It is a really good idea for you to be evaluated by a cardiologist! I’m hoping that you will make more noise about it if that has not already been done. You want a cardiologist who is knowledgeable about congenital heart defects.
As far as what you can do right now to help yourself … check out this simple breathing technique from Dr. Majid Ali.
Click on the link, it will take you to Youtube.com -> Limbic Breathing
You can do SO much healing with your BREATH!
Make sure you are getting good nutrition as well. Fruits and vegetables are very important. If you aren’t getting enough protein make yourself a shake everyday! I do a green smoothie and a hemp shake every morning.
If you click on the green smoothie link you will get some ideas for green smoothies, and the hemp shake link will take you to Dr. Ali’s Breakfast. Listen to what he has to say about hydration. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water!
Soda is not your friend. Please look at your health from all perspectives. If you have questions please ask them below.
Your concern is reason enough to make plenty of noise and to bend over backward to nurture yourself.
Be well!
Many blessings
Carrie
Hi,
I have had readings under 90 percent o2, so i am supplemental oxygen. I have two questions. 1) I have a shunt (not an implant, naturally occuring). Having a shunt causes my o2 meter to show I always have 90 percent or more o2 in my blood because it, basically, carries the o2 cells with the blood without stopping in the lungs and receiving new o2 in the cells. 2) I also retain co2 at 57 percent.
Question: What level of o2 should I be on because of the co2 problem and the opposing problem of, yeah, you have o2 in your blood, but it is not fresh o2 from the lungs refilling it?
Question: I seem to be losing intelligence (I was studying Law and working as an intern and am unable to continue) and my eyesight seems to be behaving poorly. I have trouble seeing unless I wear my o2 (I was trying to wean myself off it), and I often buy the same two items because I have forgotten I bought the first. I am most worried about my eyesight. I just had my eyes checked two months ago and my glasses are not helping me anymore.
Tx for your help. The doctors tell me all I have to do is get out there and exercise. However my hr goes up to the 160s and my bp can get to over 200/100.
Thank you again. Sorry this is complicated, but my doctors say all will be well if I lose weight. I am losing, but things are getting worse, not better.
Aloha Katherine,
It sounds like you are a CO2 retainer.
Things get a whole lot more complicated when your disease process advances to this point.
I can tell you that your problems are not so simple as losing weight. Losing weight will NOT mean that “all will be well”.
Your low oxygen level is killing you. Of course you are concerned.
I’m happy to coach individuals in your situation, though I often see that it is a hard time to make major changes in diet and lifestyle when your disease process has become so advanced!
If you are really ready to make serious change, enroll in one of my coaching programs and let’s get going! Time is of the essence!
Many blessings,
Carrie
My oxygen saturation drops on exertion, but my pulmonary doctor cannot find a reason for it and he’s referring me to a cardiologist. In the interim, he’s told me to use oxygen when I do things that would cause it to drop, but my oximeter doesn’t always read correctly and I’m worried that I may get TOO much oxygen. Can that happen, and if so what are the consequences? Please email me an answer.
Aloha Jennett,
You have a very wise doctor. No there is NO reason to worry about getting too much oxygen while using “low flow supplemental oxygen”. You absolutely cannot get too much by this delivery device.
When your oxygen level drops below 92% however, you cause yourself harm and risk spontaneous death! Use supplemental oxygen with ALL your activity! You are much better safe than sorry!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Thank you so much for your quick and thoughtful response, Carrie. I really appreciate your caring and compassion and helpfulness. Thank you for answering my questions and providing such helpful info.
I’m glad to know the vomiting is not out of the ordinary (although the reason for it is scary).
He does already take a really good children’s vitamin and mineral supplement (USANA). Are there other particular foods or supplements that you think would also be appropriate?
Thank you for suggesting the metabolic issue–I will definitely ask the doctor for a referral to have that looked into, also.
Also the idea of blowing in his face is good; I just worried that I’d be blowing too much CO2 at him and he mightn’t get enough oxygen because of it, but I’ll try it. So far, the oximeter alarm has been going off at some point during every time he sleeps, even naps, and it’s scary.
This morning I was able to get him an appointment for a consult at the Pediatric Sleep Clinic for tomorrow afternoon, so we are going to set out today, and spend the night with family nearby to make sure we get to the appointment in plenty of time.
I’m so hoping they can get this all figured out right away and FIX IT!
Thank you again for your compassion and helpfulness, and your hugs and prayers–any kind of positivity is appreciated!
I will check back and give you an update when they have it figured out, and hopefully all this can be of help and encouragement to another parent out there who may be worried and doubting.
STEVE– Thanks so much also for your compassion and well-wishes. In a way it is good to hear that I’m not alone, but at the same time, very not-good when others are going through something so scary too. I know it must be so hard to try to focus on your son’s issues when you’re going through your own health issues, and they’ve told you there’s nothing to worry about. But I’m with Carrie in thinking you and your partner should get a second opinion for your son. I hope all goes well with him and with your health as well, and that you’ll also find some solutions.
Hi Sarah,
Happy my advice felt helpful
I just want to clarify … I am not talking about covering his mouth with yours, that shouldn’t be necessary, but if you blow hard at his nose and mouth, the strong flow of air at his air way will cause him to take a good deep breath. I used to use that trick in the Childrens’ Hospital. Works like a charm.
The low CO2 does not jive with sleep apnea. When you hold your breath your CO2 climbs. It sounds like he is breathing off CO2 because some other issue (likely metabolic) is causing acidity. Does that make sense? His body is trying to correct the underlying issue. They have GOT to get to the bottom of this. Don’t let them convince you that you don’t know what you are talking about. This is incredibly dangerous! Stand strong! You can do this!
Keep referring to his blood values and ask them WHY is he hyperventilating. I’d insist on a sleep study in a pediatric intensive care if you can’t get one elsewhere. Pediatric doctors staffing an intensive care unit are going to know a whole lot more than most doctors will, and they can call in anyone they need without delay. Coping with this issue at home is nuts. Tell them you will hold them liable if anything happens to him!
Remember, your job as advocate for your son does not require that you be nice and understanding, and what anyone else thinks of you in your role as advocate is none of your business. You have a job to do, and it’s gonna get done! I’ll email you so you have my email address. Contact me if I can help.
Many blessings,
Carrie
@ Sarah…My partner and i experienced this with our young boy,he had ir since birth,we lost him twice but thank god we was ay my mothers,she just happens to be a registered nurse,she bought him around on both occassions whilst waiting for the ambulance,he also had one of these turns the day he was born but was completely normal by the time nurses attended my partners bell call.Now his Peadatrician has said that his tonsils need to come out but specialists are saying no becuse he will grow out of it,here they call it apnea with children,now not being a doctor i don’t know if there is any difference between sleep apnea and apnea,iv’e been told i stop breathing of a night time too and we asked the same questions you did and the response was …could be hereditary,now that our young fella is 4 his brain knows what to do now,we still check on him,but when we hear a bang on the wall,and we have witnessed this,his little body does this big jump and because his bed is near a wall,hence the bang,his brain has told him…hey c’mon it’s time for another breath(explained to us in basic terms)…Peadatricians are aware of the problem but because of the Surgeons they have the final say on removing things unless it’s obvious to themselves as well….i believe if my son was to have his tonsils removed all this would stop…also on a side note he suffers Tobsilittis quite a bit.My partner and i know just how you feel,wev’e experienced it ourselves,just wanted to let you know we know how you feel and understand where you are coming from.
Aloha Steve,
Doesn’t your heart go out to Sarah and her little one? Sounds like you folks have been through a lot as well.
I just wanted to offer some suggestion. Sleep apnea is not a hereditary thing usually. Tonsils can definitely cause issue, and if your lil one is experiencing frequent issues with his tonsils, I’d get a second opinion. Removing the tonsils will allow better air flow if they are frequently swollen, and the improved sleep and breathing that results will really boost health.
The other thing I’d strongly suggest is looking for food allergies, avoiding processed food, and making sure that he get absolutely no high fructose corn syrup. Diet is an incredible healing tool! Good luck to you and yours!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Dear Carrie,
Thanks so much for all your caring advice to all those posters above so far. It seems like all the other “advice” sites out there are either very vague and overgeneralized and practically useless, or they want to charge a ridiculous amount of money just to ask a question, without knowing whether you’ll even get a well-considered or detailed answer. I’m sorry this is such a long message, but so far I haven’t been able to get any medical professionals to really seem to listen or care much about what’s going on with my son, and you seem so very helpful and caring, and I’m really very frustrated, and frankly terrified at this point.
My son is now almost 3 years old. Since before he was one year old, he started having episodes of blue lips, seemingly at random, but maybe more-so after naps. I was very concerned, but the doctor mostly shrugged it off. When I kept pestering him, he finally referred my son to a cardiologist. They gave him an echocardiogram, and said his heart is perfectly normal. They then seemed to suggest that I might be imagining it, telling me it might be due to him being cold or wearing a blue shirt or eating blue candy, etc (none of which applied). And since the blue-lips effect seemed kind of random, and varied in intensity, and never occurred during his few doctor visits, and he’s a smart and peppy child, they told me I just shouldn’t worry about it. But whenever it happened, which was sometimes even multiple times per day (but sometimes not at all for 2 or 3 days), it still set off my maternal-intuition alarm bells. But I couldn’t detect any kind of real pattern or cause-and effect to it, and I was the only person worried.
At his 2-year doctor visit, I listed my concerns to the doctor, that the blue lips thing was continuing, his weight seemed to be plateauing, and he still sleeps 15-18 hours out of 24 and is very cranky if he misses one of his two usual daytime naps. I told him my husband has sleep apnea, and asked if it’s even possible for young children to have it (I didn’t know). He didn’t think it likely, but offered to refer him to an ENT specialist.
The ENT doc said that they don’t really do sleep studies for children so young; they just remove their tonsils and adenoids and see if that solves the problem. The doc said it was possible that my son’s symptoms might be caused by sleep apnea, and my son’s tonsils and adenoids looked “large-ish”, so he’d be happy to do the surgery to see if it worked, and if not, well, we could look into other possibilities. I was not too keen on the idea of putting my very small child under general anesthesia and removing bits of his body as an experimental treatment. I later did some online research and found that children with sleep apnea are at higher risk of complications both during and after an adenotonsillectomy, and I didn’t want to proceed with a surgery without anyone having figured out why his lips kept turning blue, or if the surgery were even appropriate for him.
Then once in June this year, and now again just this last Wednesday, he had an “episode” that occurred first thing in the morning, in which he was terrifyingly pale (almost a blue-grayish color) and limp-floppy, and vomited (but just water, not really any bile). The first time, by the time we changed him out of vomitty clothes twice, got ourselves dressed, and drove 30 minutes to the urgent care clinic, he was almost entirely recovered, and they said he probably just had a virus. I protested that I didn’t think that was the case, and I told that doctor also about the blue lips and such, but she also just shrugged it off. I was starting to think maybe I am just crazy or paranoid or something.
But this time when it happened again last Wednesday, and it was even more severe, I was terrified for his life, and angry that I had let myself think maybe I was just paranoid, and I carried him straight to our nearby clinic, which was just opening for the morning. This time, finally a medical professional witnessed him in this poor state, although he was already improving and regaining some color, especially after a big vomit at the beginning of the visit. But even so, they were finally alarmed also, and did a lot of tests. His blood oxygen saturation was 99%, a chest x-ray showed nothing amiss, CBC was also all within normal ranges, but “I-Stat Chem 8” showed low CO2 (17.0 mmol/L), low creatinine (0.4 mg/dL), and high anion gap (17 mg/dL). The doc said he couldn’t tell if those numbers were off because my son had been vomiting, or if he was sick because they were off. So he told us to make a follow-up appointment for Friday, to see how he was doing and re-check the blood levels.
By noon, my son was back to his usual peppy, talkative, hungry self, with no sign anything was ever wrong. ???
On Thursday, I wanted to be as prepared as possible for his Friday appt, and I started having a really strong feeling it might be something going on with his oxygen levels during sleep. I did some online research and found that small children can indeed have sleep apnea, they do indeed conduct sleep studies to diagnose it, and it can indeed be a very dangerous condition. I also called our insurance to see if they would cover a referral for a sleep study. The only places in our area that they would cover, don’t see small children. The only other option is a Children’s Hospital about 6 hours’ drive away from us, which has a pediatric Sleep Clinic. I called that place and spoke with a nurse, who said it certainly all sounded like sleep apnea, and I should get a referral to have him looked at over there. She also said in the meantime, I should see if we could get a Pulse Oximeter to measure his oxygen while he sleeps.
At his appt. Friday morning, the “I-Stat Chem 8” results came out almost the same, with CO2 low (22.0 mmol/L), creatinine even lower (<0.2 mg/dL), and anion gap at 14 mg/dL (toward the high end of "normal"). Also, this time his calcium was low at 4.1 mg/dL (which seems odd, since he consumes a LOT of dairy and fresh fruits and vegetables). But the doctor didn't really discuss those results with me, as instead the conversation seemed to focus more on specialist referrals.
His doctor suggested an EEG to rule out any kind of seizures, and I requested the Pediatric Sleep Clinic referral. I told him that I suspect sleep apnea, and I'm frustrated that this wasn't better-pursued earlier, and that I'm also concerned that although my son's heart tested as normal before, I'm afraid it could be damaged by these "episodes" that have happened in the meantime. He said he didn't think that heart damage would be of concern in my son, because he's "not old enough" and doesn't have a pre-existing heart condition, but he agreed to give the Sleep Clinic referral and an order for the Oximeter, and that was that.
Friday afternoon, a respiratory specialist delivered the Oximeter and explained how to use it, saying we could put it on his finger or big toe. Friday night, we put it on his finger, but he kept knocking it loose, and the alarm would go off due to that, but not at all otherwise.
So last night (Saturday), we strapped it on tight to his big toe and put a sock on over it, after he was already asleep. At about 4 this morning, the alarm went off for the first time, when his oxygen dropped to 91%. I woke him up a little, and since I've heard that yawning is our body's natural way to get more oxygen, and yawns are contagious, I yawned at him until he yawned back, and then his oxygen went right back up to 99%, so I went back to bed.
Then about 6:15a.m., the alarm woke me up again, but this time his oxygen dipped down to 87%, and we had a harder time getting him to wake up and yawn, and it took about 5 minutes to get him back up to where the alarm would quit going off. By then, he was more awake, and he wanted "that thing off" his toe, so we turned it off and took it off him and just all snuggled in our bed until we were all more awake, and he seemed fine.
Then he missed his morning nap today (weekends are not so time-structured), but we put the Oximeter on him for his afternoon nap. At around 2:30p.m. (he'd been asleep for about an hour), the alarm went off, and I ran up to check it, and his oxygen was at 77%! Again, we had to do a lot of yawning and make him yawn a lot to get the reading back up to about 93% this time, but it wouldn't go any higher.
About a half-hour later it briefly dipped back down to 91%, and again about another half-hour later, and then he woke up a little while after that.
But even after all that, his lips were never blue, which makes me wonder–how low have his oxygen levels typically been when his lips have been blue all these countless times over the last two years, and how low must they have been during those two episodes when he was gray and floppy?!
I am really upset that this hasn't been adequately addressed by his doctor sooner, and I'm hoping to get over to the Pediatric Sleep Clinic right away, and that they'll figure this out and fix it ASAP, but I still have some questions that are bothering me right now, that I'm hoping you can help me understand:
1. During his two really bad "episodes", most of the symptoms seem concurrent with oxygen deprivation, but could the vomiting also have been related to it? Do people ever vomit as a reaction to low oxygen?
2. He already eats (and seems to crave) what seem like ridiculously great quantities of fresh fruits (and vegetables, but to a lesser degree). Is there any other dietary measure we can take to help increase his oxygen absorption/retention?
3. Could two years of untreated oxygen deprivation in a young child lead to heart damage? Or is it true that he's too young for it to affect his healthy heart?
4. Besides heart damage in older people (as his doctor seemed to think was the only worry), can chronic oxygen deprivation damage other organs, like kidneys, possibly leading to those odd blood results?
5. 77% seems terribly low to me, but his lips weren't even blue, like they often are when I haven't had the slightest idea what his oxygen level was. Can people's tolerance for low oxygen levels increase over time? I certainly don't want him to "build a tolerance" for low oxygen, but I wonder if he already has to some extent.
6. If his oxygen level dips down low again before he gets to the specialist, is there some other way quicker than trying to make him yawn, that we can get his oxygen level back up higher? We already keep the bedroom windows cracked open.
7. We do NOT want him to EVER go through one single more of those terrifying severe pale/floppy episodes. But not knowing what his oxygen levels were when that happened, and looking to prevent a recurrence (but not overreact, either), at what low oxygen level (and/or for how long) would you think we should call 911 and ask for the local firefighters/EMT guys to come fast and bring oxygen? (The nearest hospital/ambulance is about 30 min. away.)
Thank you so much for your time and consideration. I'm just at my wit's end and scared for my baby.
Aloha Sarah,
Your little guy is lucky to have such a devoted mother!
1. Yes, vomiting is very appropriate with such low oxygen levels. Emptying the stomach will reduce the work load for the body, which recognizes low oxygen level as life threatening.
2. I would consider supplementation for him. Better nutrition will definitely help.
3. His young little heart is so amazingly strong. I doubt he has suffered any damage to his heart, the real danger is sudden death from low oxygen.
4. The low CO2 and low creatinine sound like a metabolic problem going on. This is just not normal at all, and very concerning to me. The sleep lab will help to find out if he has obstructive sleep apnea from his tonsils, but they will not be able to isolate a metabolic issue.
5. Your son is not developing a tolerance for low oxygen. End stage lung disease does involve this mechanism, but your son is not experiencing this yet certainly. (and you are exactly right, this is NOT good) What happens is that when your oxygen level drops too low, your body gets stingy with your arms and legs. It concentrates what oxygen is available to protect your brain, heart, and vital organs. So even though the reading said 77% at his toe, his oxygen level at his core was probably not dangerously low. Still though, this is a HUGE concern!!
6. I’d really love to see you get home oxygen concentrator until you get to the bottom of this. That is the best way! Short of that, blow directly at his mouth and nose, it will cause him to take a deep breath easier than making him yawn. It will even work with him still asleep.
You are your son’s best advocate. Understand that each of these episodes can be life threatening. Your doctor has enough information right now to get your insurance to cover home oxygen. This is NOT an over reaction!!! Trust your instincts, they’ve been right on so far
So just to recap … I want to make sure you understand that this sounds like a metabolic problem to me and the doctor at the clinic was very appropriate in sending you to a specialist who can get to the bottom of this. I just wish he would have prescribed home oxygen.
I personally would not put this child to bed without supplemental oxygen until this issue is effectively addressed. Keeping his oxygen levels up while he sleeps should be immediately noticeable in the amount of sleep he requires. Low oxygen levels are exhausting!
During many years working in a major Children’s Hospital I saw children die of similar metabolic issues, and I also saw kids who’s crazy screaming mother got them the help they needed in time to save them!
Hey Mom, you are doing a GREAT job! Be gentle with yourself and give that lil guy a big hug for me! Please do check back and keep me updated! I’ll be praying for your little one and you too!
Many blessings,
Carrie
PS- I think removing his tonsils might be a good idea, and get him singing! Strengthening the muscles of the throat will help with any sleep apnea issues he may be having. Check out “Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book“. It’s the most important book you will ever read!
sorry some how the page re-loaded…i was saying so i could have a clearer understanding when i talk to my GP next as he puts all my problems down to panic/anxiety like so many doctors do here…as you can probably tell i am from Australia…
Hi Steve,
You have a lot going on. I’m really glad you are off the cholesterol lowering drugs! Search Statins on this site and read a bit. You really don’t want to mess with these dangerous drugs.
Now as far as your low sat … it is more than likely from your smoking. As you can tell from the post above low oxygen level is very dangerous. My suspicion is that your age is the reason they chose to over look your low oxygen levels. You aren’t “old” enough to alarm them, but they certainly should NOT have ignored your low oxygen level. Ignoring your oxygen needs will CAUSE heart failure.
Stop smoking and start learning how to breath better. It is never too late to reverse your disease process. The more damage you have caused, the longer that reversal will take, so be consistent!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand BooK” is the most important book you will ever read.
Many people will tell you that lung disease is not reversible. The proof they will offer is the Framingham Study which showed the progressive deterioration that happens with lung disease. The problem is they studied sick people and had no knowledge of how to help them breath better.
Don’t believe the lie. Your lungs are very forgiving and there is a LOT you can do to regain your quality of life.
Be well!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi…I stumbled accross your web page via Google,I’m looking at what causes low oxygen sats….iv’e just had 2 visits to our emergency dep’t with chest pain in the last 3 days,I have been advised that it is whats called Prinzmetal Angina…Iv’e had these chest pains for years,iv’e had 2 angiograms and my cardioligist informs me that my coronary arteries are in “pristine” condition..what prompted these angiograms is i also suffer from high cholestrol,now i know over your side of the world your readings are different to ours,my cholestrol was 19 got it down to correct range with lipid lowering medication but it turns out i have severe reactions to these drugs and was taken off them,some extra work on my diet has managed to bring my cholestrol down to 14,also noting that my triglyverides are 12.
Now i’m a 44 Y.O. male,smoked for 26-27 years(in the process of quitting)i suffer reflux quite badly if i forget to take my reflux medication i also suffer panic/anxiety disorder and am being treated with alparazolam for that,i have reactions to the SSRI drug family as well,now recently my blood pressure has crept up..
Now my Question is on my last 2 vists to the ER my sats were varying from 85-92 without oxygen….i was given oxygen via nasal prongs and that corrected my sats kept steady at 97-99%….then on several occassions whilst on oxygen the sats dropped again to 85-88%..ER staff kept coming in and changing the meter on my fingers hoping that would stop tripping of the alarm for low sats,i informed the nurses that swapping the meter from finger to finger had been done she popped me back on oxygen,once my troponins came back negative (chest pain that made me go to ER)they discharged me with out any information as to why my sats were so low,i can only assume it’s because i’m still smoking a little as i haven’t completely given up yet,do you think that is the problem? i remember here a couple of months ago i overheard an ER staff member telling a patient they don’t discharge people from emergency with sats lower than 92 i think it was and yet mine was 88% on oxygen ??? any suggestions would be grateful so i have a cleare understanding when i talk to my GP
Hi. I just had appointments with my Pulmonary and Primary doctor’s . I had lung cancer in 2007, treatment of chemo and radiation. I am currently in the process of deciding upon using oxygen, which I am not fond of. The more I have been reading I see it is so important to suppliment with O2. I do check my p/o often and while sitting it is so good, as I move it lowers. I now think I am a walking time bomb. I need to be convinced that I am making the best decison to take the oxygen. I wonder if the p/o ever gets better in time after using O2, and then one can stop using it?
Deb
Aloha Deb,
You won’t get better without it … promise.
Is dropping dead not enough motivation to meet your oxygen needs?
You are worth it, Deb. Life is worth it!
Want to get off? Prevent oxygen deprivation and learn how to breathe better!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the ongoing support you need!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Yes my husband has COPD.He’s on oxgen 24/7.His oxygen level yesterday was 84%.Do I have to be worry?Or is he in danger.Please let me know.
Aloha Minnie,
Sorry it has taken me a few days to reply. My schedule is tight these days.
YES! Your husband IS in danger. It is VERY important that his oxygen level is adjusted to keep his blood oxygen saturation at 92% at a minimum. (Even if he is a chronic carbon dioxide retainer.) Read the article above again. There are other articles in the oxygen category that might help you grasp this information.
It is very important! Low oxygen levels can kill you instantly, and will cause congestive heart failure eventually.
It is never too late to learn how to breathe better!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the support you need.
Be well,
Carrie
Is there any such thing as “too high oxygen levels?” At what saturation level is oxygen dangerous in the human body? And how much supplemental oxygen can one consume on a daily basis?
Aloha Robert,
Is there any such thing as “too high oxygen levels?”
Yes Robert there is. Oxygen toxicity can result from receiving too much oxygen, however you are not likely to cause oxygen toxicity with the low flow oxygen typically used in a home setting.
At what saturation level is oxygen dangerous in the human body?
That depends, Robert. If you are a corbondioxide retainer, then it is dangerous for you to increase your oxygen saturation much above 92% because you will no longer have a drive to breathe.
It is also important to remember that this condition does not eliminate the need to keep your oxygen saturation at 92%. As you have learned in the post above, oxygen can not penetrate the walls of the red blood cell to catch its ride on your hemoglobin unless it is at that 92% saturation. If you are anemic, 92% saturation is still not enough because you don’t have enough red blood cells to get the job done.
And how much supplemental oxygen can one consume on a daily basis?
The goal with oxygen therapy is to use the least amount possible to meet your needs. However, the goal is to prevent low oxygen levels from happening. So if you need supplemental oxygen 24 hours each day, then it is not only safe to do so, but could be VERY dangerous if you DON’T!
Be well,
Carrie
Hi Carrie,
My daughter is 6 years old and we actually were at the chiropractor and he checked her oxygen saturation levels by placing something on her finger, it read 94 and he was very concerned. We have an appointment with our doctor but I’m not sure what to think. Our chiropractor put her on vitamin e2 to help oxygenate the blood and we went back a few days later to see if it helped at all. During those few days she became a different person! Before she was miserable, whinny, snotty and she wasn’t sleeping well at night. On the vitamin e2 she is happy and sleeping great at night but her levels didn’t change.
The e2 is definitely doing something because when she forgot to take it for 2 days she went right back to being miserable. Do you have any idea what would cause this in a young girl?? And why e2 works??
Thank you
Cristy
Aloha Cristy,
Congenital heart defects can certainly cause the symptoms you are describing. It might be a good idea to get a referral to a cardiologist just in case.
Increasing your oxygen levels can certainly make a big difference if you are plagued by low oxygen levels. I have heard of e2, but have had no first hand experience with it. I am happy to hear that it made such a big difference with your daughter.
My advice is to rule out any major health issue, then work with your daughter on relaxing. It is really important that she be consistent. The relaxing practice is just as important as deep breathing exercise.
Make sure she is eating lots of fruits and veggies, this will help reduce inflammation so she will have better air exchange.
I am currently working on a program I call, Increasing Your Oxygen From the Inside Out. I didn’t anticipate helping children with this program, but it sounds like it might be exactly what your daughter needs as well.
Stay tuned for good things to come!
Low oxygen level (anything below 92%) is something to be concerned about for sure. Though some of the smaller oximeters do not function as well, and may not have picked up enough blood flow to give an appropriate reading. You might want to start by getting a reading with a heavy duty oximeter. You want the probe to squeeze the finger pretty tightly to get a more accurate reading. Make sure the reading is correct before you make any serious decisions. Then look for any congenital heart defect or other rare health issue. With such a young child you really want to look for a diagnosis.
Once you get your child the best care you can find, keep her on the e2 and get her talking, laughing, playing and using her lungs as much as possible. Warm bathes with epsom salts can be useful in releasing tension to improve lung function. After a warm bath has relaxed her, use bubbles or candles, but get her to take deep breaths and blow out forcefully. If she uses her lung muscles more often they will gain strength.
I hope your daughter grows strong and happy. It sounds to me like you are doing all you can, and will continue to strive towards that goal, so be gentle with yourself as well.
Let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi Carrie….What a great caring service you give people…Thank you..My father is almost 89 years old.He just got out of the hospital for free air and bladder infection.I took him to the E>R> for symtoms of Congesive Heart Failure.Has been losing weight,fatigue about 15 pounds of fluid in his feet and ancles and legs.His o2 readings for 6 hours in the ER were from the 70″s to the 90’s…They admitted him because of the free air…They said he did not need oxygen…I have had to fight for proper medical treatment for my father.I think you are intitled to that at any age.I got him on a daily nuebulizer and that helps.At the hospital the readings they take they take them all and give a %.h His o2 stat % over six hours was 92 .But when it goes down and does not stay at say 92%.I took him to the Cardioligist and she said his heart was fine, see ya in a year.He is an active 88 year old but for the last few months he is fatiged,seditary.swelling,anemic which the nurse told me….I went and got his records from the hospital because he is still cathed and they did not give me any info.answers……Boy when I saw his labs I was on the computer for days.I am looking for a new primary care doctor. Carrie,I have been caring for my father since I was a teenager…Any ideas about how I can get my Dad on oxygen? God Bless
Aloha Jacklin,
Demand that they test your dad’s oxygen when he is doing normal daily activity. If his reading falls below 88%, his insurance will pay for it.
Advocate for him with the doctor to get this reading.
Short of that, you can buy an oxygen generator without a prescription. It isn’t medical grade, but it is safe to use. If your father is a CO2 retainer, there could be a danger in giving him too much oxygen. If he is not a CO2 retainer then there is no danger in giving low flow oxygen.
It is best if you find a doctor who will treat him appropriately. Remember that if he is anemic, then 92% is also “low oxygen level” for him. Fewer blood cells mean lower oxygen level. His anemia could very well be the straw that broke the camels back.
Certainly there is a lot that you can do to treat both anemia and low oxygen level.
Learn how to breathe better!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the ongoing support you need.
Jacklin, I hope you realize that you are a hero? Caregivers do NOT get the praise they deserve. Pay close attention to your self care as well.
Compassion fatigue can get to the best of us! Be well!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi Carrie
I never check my oxygen saturation before but after I checked today, it just between 83-85%. I thought it was a mistake so I repeat it for several times and also to my friends. They all got 98-100% while I still the same. I never experienced having any diseases but sometimes I suddenly wake up between my sleep gasping for air. I also always cough even in the hot environment. For your opinion, what is the problem with me? Should I get a proper medical check-up?
Aloha Una!
Please get a proper medical check up as soon as possible!!!
Check out the other comments and make sure you don’t take bad advice like so many of our community members.
Remember, if you have low oxygen level it MUST be treated. However, once you have met that need, there is SO much that you can do to improve your health! You’ll find plenty of advice right here on this site!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the ongoing support you need.
Be well!
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi Carrie,
I went to the doctor on Friday with Bronchitis. I used to suffer asthma symptoms on a daily basis, but have not in the last 7 years or so. While at the doctor’s office, they took my oxygen reading twice. Once, the tech took it while I was sitting on the table. It started at 92 and quickly dropped to 81. When the doctor came in, she said that she concerned with my level and took the levels again while I was standing. Again, it started at 92 and quickly dropped to 81. Should she have sent me for a chest X-Ray, or to the ER for more treatment such as oxygen? She prescribed me an inhaler and antibiotic for the bronchitis, but is this enough? If the bottoms of my fingernails are bluish, does that mean I am not getting enough oxygen?
Thanks,
Shirley
Aloha Shirley,
I advise that you go to the Emergency Room and do not let them send you home without oxygen unless you see your level stay at 92% or HIGHER while walking, sleeping, etc.
I would also advise you to get a new doctor. Sending you home with such extremely low oxygen levels is down right dangerous.
Your finger nail beds should be PINK!!! Yes, blue means you are not getting enough oxygen. Low oxygen will rob your eye sight, short term memory, your STRENGTH and your charming personality.
It can also cause sudden death!!!
Get the decent care that you deserve!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the ongoing support you need.
Many blessings,
Carrie
One of your other readers asked about PAH, which is pulmonary arterial hypertension. Decreased oxygen saturation can result in increased pulmonary pressures, which can in turn lead to right sided heart failure. This is a specialty area of pulmonology. There are two types of PAH – idiopathic (no known cause) and secondary (e.g., to sleep apnea, COPD, connective tissue disease). phassociation.org has excellent, reliable information on both kinds of PAH.
Blessings,
Karen (a patient)
Aloha Karen,
Aha! Thanks for clearing that up Karen. I’m not familiar with that abbreviation. Pulmonary hypertension is a biggie!
Thanks for the resource.
If you are a patient, maybe you can help others to navigate that site and find the information they need.
I’d love to help. Would you like to work with me to address the needs of people with pulmonary hypertension. Just let me know!
I look forward to hearing from you. You can reach me at thelifebreathcoach @ gmail .com
Many blessings,
Carrie
I have had low oxygen for a while now, I do have Asthma (Acute) I have a tumor on my Esophagus and a spot on my lung.
Right now my O2 is at 77%, 3 months ago it was 85%. why would I be dropping? I have continuous oxygen at 3 liters. My doctors are not telling me, or do not know and I have a Pulmanary.
I read where eating lots of fruits and veggies makes a difference, however, that is all I eat, I have no appitite and must force myself to eat some little something, bake sweet potato is my food of choice.
What else to do? My mother and her family have all died this way, I do not wish to follow.
I have lost 85 pound’s also, i used to run with my dog when I first got her at 12 weeks old, I became this way when was about 1 year old, we were training for agility and rally and then I began to suffocate BIG TIME.
I also sang, past tense, I no longer can due to lack of stamina, I know to breath thru my diaphragm and when my chest moves I know that I am not breathing correctly.
My spine is crocked and pushing on my diaphragm also. My heart doctor says there is nothing wrong there, and not one has mentioned water retention and my BPH is 8.
Do you know something that they do not? I am going to start working out with weights only in August 2010.
thank you
Aloha Ronda,
I’m sorry to hear of your suffering.
Unless you can increase your oxygen level to 92% it is important that you DO NOT exert yourself. Weight lifting won’t help you unless you have at least 92% oxygen saturation.
Learn how to breathe better!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the ongoing support you need.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Just recently my o2 stats dropped down to 92-95, I have been MORE active lately can being more active cause lower o2 levels and why.. It has been very very hot lately and very very humid. I spent 1 whole day in the 105F car working then when i came home I felt like i was breathing thur a straw but not GASPING for air just that feeling when your in 99% humid. with 105F temps. My heart rate now is 80-90 BPM with o2 @ 94 when i take deeep breath the stats go up to 98%.. do i just need to breath more deeply i am a little over weight but not over 250lbs let me know what you think
Aloha John,
The heat is a big stress on your body.
Make sure you are checking your oxygen level while you are active and for several minutes after you sit back down.
As long as you are not seeing levels below 92% you are ok. ANY low oxygen level below 92% needs to be treated with supplemental oxygen.
Activity is good so long as you have plenty of oxygen available to you. If you don’t, then use supplemental oxygen with activity.
Let me know if I can be of any further help.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hi Carrie,
I wanted to send your article to my dr. re “Low Oxygen Lvels may be present only at certain times”. However, I do not know your qualifications, your education, etc. in order to present this to him. Also, I cannot find other articles on the web relating to this issue. I have recorded low oxygen levels 82, etc. from a take home oximter from dr’s office but followed by a sleep apnea test that was fine. I was told they would take the readings from the sleep apnea test. I have suffered from extreme fatigue, mental confusion and shortness of breath for years and finally thought I had found the solution. Can you please provide me with some information re yourself or other articles re this subject. Tks. so much. Joan
Aloha Joan,
I have been a Respiratory Therapist for 25 years. My qualifications should not be an issue. If your doctor won’t get oxygen into your hands with a reading of 82% then find a new doctor. The information you need to bring up to your doctor is the oxy-hemoglobin disassociation curve. He/she can review it from their early education.
It is important that you walk, stairs if necessary, AT YOUR DOCTORS OFFICE so that he can witness your low oxygen level. In order for your insurance to pay for it they want a reading of 88%.
Oxygen concentrators require a prescription. Oxygen generators can be purchased without a doctors order. I think you will find that oxygen really helps you, especially if you use it while you sleep and prevent all low oxygen levels.
You can find an oxygen generator on this site -> Oxygen Generator
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meetingand get the ongoing support you need.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Can low O2 issues “come and go”? I will have periods were I feel good….I dont even think to check my O2 (highest I ever remember seeing is 96%). I also get periods where 92-93% are the norm, with drops down to 90-91%. Walking in to work this morning (100 yards flat)my level dropped to 86% according to my personal monitor. Trying to get to the bottom of this….I feel pretty cruddy.
Thanks for any info.
Aloha Justin,
I emailed you an offer to explore your issues on a coaching call. The reason I am willing to offer you free coaching is that the recording will educate MANY people.
This is a very common issue.
If Justin doesn’t gobble up this opportunity for free personal coaching, leave your comment here to take advantage yourself. If he does, I’ll send you the recording for free if you comment below asking for it.
So ….. “Can low O2 issues come and go?”
Yes, they absolutely can and do. My coaching clients often feel so much better when they follow the program and improve their oxygenation that they go back to their old habits and it isn’t long before their low oxygen issues show themselves again.
Is your issue mostly your heart, mostly your lungs or a combination of the two? Answering that question will give you the place to begin and also give clues as to the potential you may have to recover your lost vitality.
The most important issue concerning oxygenation is water retention. Are you retaining fluid? If it is collecting around your ankle bone, you can be certain that it is also in your lungs. You can’t breathe through fluid. There are several ways to approach this issue.
Toxicity is sometimes the cause of water retention.
Removing environmental pollutants might be useful to you.
Altering your diet will most definitely help with water retention.
Many nutritional supplements can be very useful in reversing the cause of water retention.
If you aren’t moving air well, it’s tough to oxygenate yourself.
A few years back, a group of doctors got together and changed “Inactivity Related Disease” to reflect the significance of this condition. Sedentary life style will steal your health. As a matter of fact, you die early of EVERY disease due to inactivity. Exercise helps to reverse disease process.
Lack of activity will weaken your heart muscle. If you have a weak heart muscle, walking just a few feet will result in low oxygen levels.
Exercising with low oxygen levels will weaken your heart muscle quickly. If you WON’T use the oxygen you NEED, then don’t exercise.
Sit down and wait for the grim reaper. You’ll live longer (though without much quality of life) if you sit with your low oxygen levels as opposed to walking yourself right into the ground by demanding that your body push itself without the oxygen that it requires.
As you can see there is a lot you can do to improve your health and your oxygen levels. My coaching begins with looking at what is holding you back from making the changes you need to make. Are you doing all that you know you should be doing, Justin?
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meetingand get the ongoing support you need.
Many blessings,
Carrie
what do you know about PAH?
Aloha Dorothy,
No I am not sure even what PAH stands for. Care to enlighten me?
I am currently in the hospital. I have RAD from chemical exposure at a prior employer.
I came in on the 24th with severe shortness of breath i have never had to be hospitalized in 13 years, They keep me for 24 observation so much for Thanksgiving. They then admitted me within 24 hours oxygen rate of 84% after just walking to the restroom without oxygen. On 3 liters for 3 days and still short of breath 95% I have now been off of oxygen for about 36 hours and at about 92%. I have been on IV steroids and now oral for the last day 40mg predisone. my problem is i have been complaining of light-headiness,dizziness and headaches. They took my blood pressure laying down it was over 72 then had me set up and it was over 52 then had me stand up and it went over 93 any ideas?
Aloha Teri,
First off, I’d say that if your oxygen level is only 92% saturation while you are sitting, odds are it is much to low when you get up. Check for low oxygen levels with activity and USE OXYGEN with ALL activity if it does fall below
92%!!! That little detail is VERY important.
You will need to meet your needs in order to find balance. Your blood pressure medications will be more effective when you find some balance and stability.
You may also have low oxygen levels while you sleep. I have seen nurses in the hospital wake people up and tell them to breathe deeply a few times, and then record the higher number! This is BAD! The doctor has no indication that your levels are low while you sleep, and it IS very significant. You should be using oxygen if your level is below
92% while you sleep, walk, talk, or any other time!
Please demand that you be given the oxygen you need to maintain your health! Your lungs are damaged! Weaning off of oxygen is probably not appropriate. Take a break from it while you are sitting if you need to, but I would be surprised if continuous oxygen DIDN’T help you. I KNOW IT WILL!
This might not be the news you were hoping for, but this is your best course of action.
Many blessings,
Carrie
PS- If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.
My husband had pneumonia and was neglected by nurses. His oxygen level dropped to 36. 3 weeks later he is suffering poor eyesight, lack of coordination and attention. I think he has brain damage. What happens at 36% oxygen levels? I can’t find the info anywhere on the web.
Thanks,
Jane
Aloha Jane,
It is heart breaking to watch loved ones suffer through illness.
I don’t know the details of your husbands case, but rest assured that the only thing you can do now is deal with the damage. Watch for all low oxygen levels and keep saturation 92% or greater at all times.
You can’t undo the past, but you can prevent further damage. Whole fresh fruits and vegetables are great. Supplement and give him a tablespoon of olive oil in water a couple times per day. The fatty acids can really help lung function.
Be gentle with yourself and know that you are doing what you can.
Many blessings,
Carrie
I have lung disease. The last time I worked I started getting drowsy at work, I was always out of Breath. I started falling asleep at the lunch room & driving home from work. On my days off I couldn’t get up for two days, I was really drowsy & I was useing my nebulizer every two hours. I tried 3 times to get up to go to hospital, I finally made it. My oxygen level was 68. I was taken by ambulance & was in the hospital for 4 days on 4 liters of oxygen.
I am out now. I cannot work. I am out of breath just doing simple things. I am tired all the time. The worst is at night. I wake up gasping for air. I make it to nebulizer & take my treatment. I wake up a couple times a night gasping for air & in morning.
My emergency doctor is the only one that has seen it, when I have respiratory failure. My regular doctor has never seen my attacks. He only hears my wheezing in my chest.
My doctor ordered a cat scan heart scan. But radiology contacted me & told me they cannot do the test because I am on beta inhancers, & they inject you with Beta blockers. They informed me I could have a respiratory failure.I am getting dizzy spells all the time.
Is there a test they can run to see my arteries in my chest. That is safe?
For me..
Aloha Ann,
So sorry it took me so long to answer your comment! My life has been crazy!
Your comment about beta enhancers confused me. Not sure what you mean by that. Beta blockers are a common medication for lowering blood pressure etc. They are also known to cause much of what you are describing.
If you are indeed on beta blockers they should not be stopped abruptly, but should be weaned slowly. Rest assured though, they should NOT be used long term, though they commonly are. The Physician’s Desk Reference says that beta blockers cause shortness-of-breath, fatigue, and heart failure. You may find this post about similar medication helpful: https://heartfailuresolutions.com/solutions/is-your-high-cholesterol-medication-killing-you
I am also concerned that you may have sleep apnea. An over night stay at a sleep lab will tell you if treatment is necessary. Sleep apnea is dangerous! You’ll find more information about it at this link: https://heartfailuresolutions.com/solutions/is-sleep-apnea-robbing-you-of-restful-sleep-and-destroying-your-health
You may learn how to best optimize your lung function with this post: https://heartfailuresolutions.com/solutions/if-you-wheeze-do-you-have-asthma
If you can wean off the problematic drug you may be a candidate for the procedure that your doctor ordered. However, be aware that women do not tolerate surgery very well, and you may be better served to educate yourself about what YOU can do to reverse heart disease and optimize your lung function. You may find this post helpful: https://heartfailuresolutions.com/solutions/can-heart-disease-lead-to-heart-failure
I am so sorry that you are suffering so much! I pray that you will find your answers for relief and feel better very soon!
Many blessings,
Carrie
My father in law has COPD is currently supposed to be on oxygen 24/7 however due to the inconvinience of having to lug an oxygen tank around sometimes avoids carrying it with him, can’t say that I blame him. Anyhow, he came in tonight with a saturation level of 74% and a pulse of 174. Can anyone shed some light as to how dangerous this is?
Aloha Rosie,
Your father in law may find portable oxygen inconvenient, but sudden death is probably not an option he is willing to risk. That is exactly what he is doing when he ignores his oxygen needs.
Low oxygen levels cause stimulation of the vagus nerve, and can spontaneously stop your heart. Does that sound a bit dangerous to you?
Read the posts in the oxygen category for more information, and stay tuned for a special report about the importance of oxygen therapy from Heart Failure Solutions.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Oh! so Sorry Im 39 and Im NOT a smoker, but I do have a history of Pneomia…Since I was a child.
I was hospitalized last July 08, (the same time when Bernie Mac died), I was put in the ICU for 9 days, because my O2 Sat. Art.Gas was in the 50’s. I remained in bed with a CPAP and was not aloud to even to walk to the bathroom by myself. Now, I have Asthma, and have lost 3 years of my memory. Simple everyday activities are becoming harder everyday. I can’t do simple things in the house sometimes. My motorskills are affected, and my mental actions are affected.
Can anyone else give me some sort of Bright Out Look!
Aloha Alicia,
I am so glad you called! Just remember that supplemental oxygen at 2-4 liters can not possibly hurt you in anyway.
Your doctor is VERY mistaken if he is telling you that using oxygen will “make your lungs weak”. I have heard many similar stories, and it always amazes me that some doctors give such dangerous information!
Please take care of yourself and meet your oxygen needs 24/7! Where there is a will there’s a way! Keep us posted! Come back and give us a testimonial when you are feeling better!
Many blessings,
Carrie
my mother was put on oxygen yesterday. Her level dropped to 88. She is a young woman, 68 today, who has Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and mini strokes. She is bed ridden, unable to speak clearly and has lost dramatic amounts of weight… Why would her oxygen suddenly drop like that? is it just a natural progression toward the end?
I have COPD ,emphysema, my doctor seems to treat me like it is not very important to have oxygen. My levels drop to low 80’s and I feel like I am not going to make it. I just this week got the oxygen. I feel I need to use it 24 hours and not just at night. I would like the concentrator to be able to move out side more freely, Open Aire has one and the doctor will not approve the use for more than at night. My level will drop in the 70’s when trying to do any out side work or move around. Any suggestions to get the doctor to agree with the facts.
Aloha John,
I would not stay with a doctor that has given you such dangerous advice. Find a competent doctor, and quick!
You can use 2 twenty foot extensions and a 7 foot nasal canula, that will give you more ability to move around (which is so important)
If you can swing it, an oxygen generator can be purchased without a doctor’s order, unlike a concentrator. You NEED oxygen! Get it anyway you can!
I am saying a prayer right now, “Lord, please help John find a doctor who will take good care of him!”
Many blesssings,
Carrie
Hi, nice posts there 🙂 thank’s for the interesting information
Aloha Mike,
Glad you are finding them helpful. Read on!
Many blessings,
Carrie Tucker
I have RADS Reactive Airway Dysfunction Syndrome as a result of chemical exposure. Best SpO2 sat is 97% worst is 87% typical is 93-94%. I know about the insurance companies and the 88% rule. and I figured it was arbitrary, since I notice lack of focus etc. at 94% are there any charts showing effects of SpO2 levels? The Air Force etc. must have done studies.
Aloha James,
Actually what you are referring to is call the Oxy-hemoglobin Disassociation Curve. It is basic education in respiratory therapy school.
Suffice to say, oxygen can’t catch its’ ride on the hemoglobin of the red blood cells when the level is below 92% saturation. It’s a matter of gas laws.
I am really not certain of what the 88% level is useful for. Guess that is how much you must deteriorate before your insurance is willing to pay.
Take care of yourself. Give yourself the oxygen that you need, while you see yourself as whole and well.
I know that sounds like a stretch, but if you can heal your mindset, you WILL FEEL BETTER!
Whole fresh diet is very helpful, so is vitamin supplementation, sunshine, and getting the most out of your lungs.
My dad has a lot of your same issues due to years of construction work around chemicals. He was a bit humbled that his punk kid had such good advice for him.
I’d love to help you too!
Learn how to breathe better!
“Your Sacred Breathing Hand Book” is the most important book you will ever read!
Enter your contact info in the right sidebar to receive your invitation to The Life Breath Club’s weekly meeting and get the ongoing support you need.
Many blessings,
Carrie
Hello Carrie
I have a question hope you can answer. My son oxygen level dropped to 60 three times . He seems to not be himself since. His oxygen levels are in high 90’s -100. He’s constantly dropping his head and seems to be extremely fatigued since this happen . Any thoughts?
Aloha Selena,
Oh goodness. I’d need a lot more information, but I’d say head to the ER.
Does he have some significant medical history that is preventing you from taking emergency action?
I’ll email you. My response.
Many blessings,
Carrie