Pulse oximetry

Overview

Pulse oximetry is a simple, painless test that checks how much oxygen is in your blood. It uses a small device that clips onto your finger, toe, or earlobe.

Yes. Pulse oximetry is a very common test in healthcare settings and is also available for home use.

Anyone may have a pulse oximetry test if their oxygen levels need to be checked – for example, people with lung conditions, heart problems, COVID-19, or during and after surgery.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Chest tightness
• Confusion or drowsiness (due to low oxygen)
• Blue tint to lips or skin (cyanosis)

Symptoms in children

• Fast breathing or difficulty feeding
• Irritability or unusual sleepiness
• Pale or blue skin

Symptoms in older adults

• Worsening confusion
• Fatigue
• Sudden shortness of breath

Causes

Main causes

• Lung conditions (like asthma, COPD, pneumonia)
• Heart problems (like heart failure)
• Anemia (low red blood cells)
• Blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
• High altitude

Risk factors

• Smoking
• Chronic lung or heart disease
• Obesity
• Recent surgery
• COVID-19 or other respiratory infections

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have sudden shortness of breath or a rapid heart rate
• If your oxygen saturation reading is below 90% (or below the target set by your doctor)

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have ongoing breathing problems and want to monitor your oxygen levels
• If you are using supplemental oxygen at home and need to adjust your settings

Diagnosis

Pulse oximetry is performed by clipping a small sensor onto your finger, toe, or earlobe. The device shines light through your skin to measure oxygen levels.

Tests that may be done

• Pulse oximetry reading (SpO2)
• Arterial blood gas (ABG) – a blood test that gives a more exact measure
• Physical exam and listening to your lungs

What to expect at your appointment

The test is quick and painless. You will be asked to remove nail polish if wearing it on the finger used. It takes just a few seconds to get a reading. The device may beep if the reading is too low or too high.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of low oxygen. The goal is to increase oxygen in your blood and treat the underlying condition.

Self-care at home

• Do not smoke
• Stay active as much as possible
• Practice breathing exercises as recommended by your doctor
• Use a pulse oximeter at home only if advised by your healthcare provider

Medical treatments

Your doctor may recommend oxygen therapy (using oxygen from a tank or concentrator), medications to open airways (like inhalers), or treatments for the underlying cause such as antibiotics for infections. Always take your medications exactly as prescribed.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for low oxygen alone, but may be needed for conditions causing it (like lung surgery for severe COPD).

Living with this condition

If you use a pulse oximeter at home, check your readings at the same times each day and record them. Follow your healthcare team's advice on what to do if levels drop.

Lifestyle tips

• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Get vaccinations (flu, pneumonia, COVID-19) to prevent infections
• Stay at a healthy weight
• Follow a treatment plan for any chronic conditions

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet supports lung health. Exercise within your limits – ask your doctor what activities are safe for you.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a condition that affects your breathing can be stressful. It is normal to feel anxious. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional for support.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk by avoiding smoking, staying up to date on vaccines, and managing chronic conditions with your doctor. Some causes like pneumonia can be prevented with vaccines.

Vaccines

Vaccines for influenza, pneumonia, and COVID-19 can help prevent infections that lead to low oxygen.

Screening programmes

If you have a condition that puts you at risk, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring with pulse oximetry.

Complications

If left untreated

• Organ damage (especially brain, heart, and kidneys)
• Worsening of the underlying lung or heart condition
• Respiratory failure
• Death in severe cases

Long-term outlook

With proper monitoring and treatment, many people with low oxygen levels can maintain a good quality of life. The key is to follow your doctor's advice and seek help quickly if symptoms worsen.

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