So, I was at the doctor’s office the other day and they strapped one of those little pulse oximeters on my finger.
I had no idea what the numbers on the screen meant, but I knew I had a good pulse because my heart was pounding out of my chest from embarrassment.
But, no worries my friends, because today I’m gonna teach y’all how to read an oxywatch oximeter like a pro!.
Table of Contents
What is an Oxywatch Oximeter?
First things first, let’s talk about what an oxywatch oximeter even is.
Basically, it’s a tiny device that attaches to your finger and measures the amount of oxygen in your blood.
It’s often used in hospitals and doctor’s offices to check for conditions like asthma, COPD, and sleep apnea.
The Basics of Reading an Oxywatch Oximeter
The most important number on the screen is the “SpO2” or “oxygen saturation” percentage.
This number tells you what percentage of your red blood cells are carrying oxygen.
A normal reading is between 95-100%.
Anything below 90% is considered low and could be a sign of a serious health issue.
The other number you might see is the “pulse rate” or “heart rate”.
This one is pretty self-explanatory – it tells you how many times your heart is beating per minute.
Other Things to Look Out For
Some oxywatch oximeters will also have a little graph on the screen that shows your pulse rate over time.
This can be helpful if your healthcare provider is looking for patterns in your oxygen levels or heart rate.
It’s also important to note that these readings can be affected by certain things, like having cold fingers or smoking.
So, if you’re getting a low reading and you’re not sure why, make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any potential influencing factors.
My Personal Experience
I have to say, I was pretty intimidated by the oxywatch oximeter at first, but now that I know how to read it, it’s not so scary.
One thing I’ve learned is that I definitely need to quit smoking because my oxygen levels are always a little low.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my oxygen levels are low?
If your oxygen levels are consistently below 90%, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider.
They may recommend oxygen therapy or other treatments to help improve your oxygen levels.
Can I use an oxywatch oximeter at home?
Yes, there are oxywatch oximeters available for purchase online or at your local pharmacy.
Keep in mind, however, that these readings are not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional.
Will my insurance cover the cost of an oxywatch oximeter?
It depends on your insurance plan.
It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover the cost of an oxywatch oximeter.
