A healthy blood oxygen level is 75–100 mm Hg, or 95–100%. Low blood oxygen levels, known as hypoxemia, may be a cause for concern.
Your blood oxygen level is a measure of how much oxygen your red blood cells are carrying.
Most children and adults don’t need to monitor their blood oxygen levels. Many doctors won’t check it unless you’re having a procedure done or show signs of problems like shortness of breath or chest pain.
People with certain health conditions may need to monitor their blood oxygen levels to determine whether treatments are working or need to be adjusted.
These conditions might include:
asthma
heart disease
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
cystic fibrosis
There are two types of tests used to measure blood oxygen levels: pulse oximeter and arterial blood gas (ABG). A pulse oximeter may be used at home or at a medical office. ABG, while very accurate, requires a blood sample to be taken by a healthcare professional.
Keep reading to learn more about measurements, causes, and treatments for low blood oxygen levels.
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