Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Dropping Of SPO2 Levels While Walking?
Question: Hi I recently bought an oximeter to record my sp02 levels. I have asthma and I get very breathless and cannot breath after a mild walk or any mild activity. I have noticed when I am walking my sp02 levels drop to the 80s. is that normal?
Brief Answer:
Dropping SPO2 to 80s is not normal
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome and thanks for your query.
SPO2 is normally above 95%, so if your SPO2 is dropping to 80s with exercise, it is abnormal.
The cause of your breathlessness may not be asthma. If you have any spirometry ( lung function test ) results, I can interpret the same for you.
If your breathing difficulty has not been investigated, it would be good to see a lung specialist and get yourself investigated.
Take care
Dropping SPO2 to 80s is not normal
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome and thanks for your query.
SPO2 is normally above 95%, so if your SPO2 is dropping to 80s with exercise, it is abnormal.
The cause of your breathlessness may not be asthma. If you have any spirometry ( lung function test ) results, I can interpret the same for you.
If your breathing difficulty has not been investigated, it would be good to see a lung specialist and get yourself investigated.
Take care
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Hi Doctor, thank you for your answer. Can you give me any indications as to what other problems there may be. Shall I ask the doctor for a spirometry test?
Brief Answer:
Yes, spirometry would be helpful
Detailed Answer:
Yes, I think you should have a spirometry to start with and full lung function tests including diffusion studies if indicated by spirometry.
It's possible that you have an interstitial lung disease interfering with the Oxygen trasfer into the blood.
Yes, spirometry would be helpful
Detailed Answer:
Yes, I think you should have a spirometry to start with and full lung function tests including diffusion studies if indicated by spirometry.
It's possible that you have an interstitial lung disease interfering with the Oxygen trasfer into the blood.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
