help for low oxygen levels in obese people

[fiery81]

how can they be treated when equipment in our area is too small to make a complete diagnosis.Also can we be sure that is all wrong.


This discussion is related to low oxygen while sleeping.

[Sunny602]

An oxygen level of 54 is very low...normal levels range between 95-100. I am very glad that you are getting a sleep study, sleep apnea could easily explain why your O2 levels are dropping so low. If the sleep study is positive for apnea, you will be treated with CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure which will keep your airway open, hopefully preventing those obstructions and desats. The machine blows a prescribed continuous pressure into your airway via a mask or nasal pillows....
If it turns out that you do not have sleep apnea, then I would bet that the doc would order additional tests, such as tests on the heart to make sure that is not the cause. He very well may do that anyways to be certain.
If you have any more questions...give a holler! Sunny :)

[Raineykc]

I was referred to a Pulmonologist and he tested my 02 level at night and it got down to 54, which I understand is very low. I am scheduled to do a sleep study in a couple of weeks.
I have chronic asthma and am on several different medications and now 02 at night. Beyond the asthma I have yet to be officially diagnosed with anything else.
Any information that you could give me would be appreciated. How dangerous is my low 02 level?

[Sunny602]

You should have other tests done as well including a full set of lung funtions as well as heart tests to make sure that it isnt the cause. Depending on what they find, they may order other tests such as xrays, ultrasounds etc...Do you have access to an oximeter? That would show if there is desaturations, it wouldn't tell you the reason though. An oximeter is a relatively common tool in doctor's offices. They can get a value at rest as well as during exercise. Some people are normal at rest but drop with any exertion. If it drops too far while you are moving around, then a doc may prescribe O2 to wear during exercise or exertion.
I hope that this helps...Sunny