Why Use Pulse Oximetry as a Sleep Apnea Patient
Getting treatment for sleep apnea is a very important step to take for your health. But after you’ve seen the doctor, much of the actual treatment falls on your shoulders.
After all, the time when your treatment takes place is at night while you’re asleep, which isn’t exactly conducive to undergoing treatment with a doctor present.
So how can you be sure that you’re completing your treatments correctly and, more importantly, that they’re safe for your personal health?
One way to improve your sleep apnea treatment is to use pulse oximetry. Unlike polysomnography, which has to be performed in a sleep laboratory, you can use oximetry at home.
It’s an easy and low-cost way to keep tabs on your own sleep apnea treatment without having to stay overnight in a lab. At Respshop, we offer a variety of portable pulse oximeters that allow you to take your own readings quickly and accurately.
Oximeters and Their Features
These non-invasive devices are designed with the home user in mind. For example, the Advanced Finger Pulse Oximeter features a compact, lightweight design that’s easy to carry along with an easy-to-read colorful OLED display. You’ll get the benefits of pulse oximetry right from the comfort of your own home.
Some of the newest pulse oximeter models even include high-tech advances to further improve your treatment. The S9™ Oximeter Adapter is a great example. This device works with the NONIN Xpod Oximeter to offer enhanced performance when it comes to your oximetry results.
One of its standout features is an included SD card. This gives you the flexibility to read your information on your PC rather than on a smaller display on the active oximeter. Plus, it makes it easy to share your information with your healthcare provider or physician.
If you’re wondering what type of oximeter is best for you and how to implement it on a practical level at home, consult your doctor. You’ll be able to go over the various features you’ll want to look for in an oximeter.
Getting Started with an Oximeter
Many people start out with an AirSense/AirCurve Complete Oximetry Kit that includes all the accessories they’ll need for quick oximetry readings. You might also look into such accessories as the Air 10 Oximetry Module, which connects an Xpod Oximeter to the AirSense 10.
As for implementing the use of your oximeter, that’s something your doctor can explain to you in detail. While the oximeters are fairly easy to use, it’s important to understand how to adjust your treatments based on your readings.
Your doctor can tell you what your ideal oxygen saturation levels are and how to adjust your oxygen flow according to the results of your oximeter readings.
Generally, you’ll be aiming for over 90 percent oxygen saturation, but it’s important to talk to your doctor before you actually start pairing your CPAP treatments with an oximeter.
Respshop has everything you need to get started with oximetry.
Pulse Oximeters FAQ
Q: Which pulse oximeter is best for home use?
A: Any finger pulse oximeter is good for home use.
Q: Are cheap finger pulse oximeters accurate?
A: Yes.
Q: What are the different types of pulse oximeters?
A: We carry the finger oximeter alone and the Oximetry Module which is available for Resmed Airsense 10. These can plug into your CPAP along with Nonin XPOD 3012 LP Oximeter to read your oxygen levels during therapy. Additionally, you may want to read this article.
Q: How accurate is a Walgreens pulse oximeter?
A: We do not carry this model so cannot comment.
Q: Which finger is used for the oximeter?
A: The index finger is best, without nail polish.
Q: How can I check my oxygen level without a device?
A: You cannot.
Q: How can I test my oxygen level at home?
A: Using a finger pulse oximeter.
Q: How do I use a pulse oximeter?
A: Instructions are included. Place on the finger and wait on results.
Q: How to read a pulse oximeter?
A: Follow the instructions included with the device.
Q: What are normal readings on a pulse oximeter? What are the two readings?
A: Saturation and pulse (SPO2). The abbreviation is a measure of the amount of oxygen affixed to hemoglobin cells within the circulatory system.
Q: What is the normal oxygen level by age?
A: Adults’ oxygenation should be over 90. Normal is 94-98 when awake.
Q: How to use an oximeter for Covid?
A: Oximeter will tell you if your blood oxygen is too low.
Q: What are normal oximeter readings during Covid?
A: Need to be over 90. Less than 88 requires oxygen therapy.
Q: What is a good oxygen level?
A: 94-98% when awake.
Q: What does a pulse oximeter measure?
A: Blood oxygenation and pulse.