The continuous surging cases of COVID-19 in India has created a panic situation and people are trying every possible way to either prevent it or to avoid hospital admissions if they are infected. If a person has contracted the virus, checking the vitals every now and then has been recommended by the doctors. These include continuous monitoring of body temperature and blood oxygen levels, which is why almost every household has a thermometer along with an oximeter. The demand for pulse oximeters has increased tremendously in the market and people have become more aware about it. But what kind of a device is it and how does it work? Let us know more about it.
What Is Oximeter And What Are Its Uses?
An oximeter is a small electronic device, which measures the levels of oxygen in the blood through the sensors in it. The oximeter is put on like a clip on a finger and sometimes can even be checked through toes or earlobe. It monitors how well our heart is pumping oxygen to other parts of our body, with the help of a small beam of light, that passes through the blood in the finger and examines the movements. It measures the blood oxygen levels as well as the pulse. When using an oximeter, place your finger inside properly and remember to not move it till you get a stable reading. If you keep your finger moving, the reading can be wrong. Not just in the current situation, an oximeter is also an important device used during operation and during intensive care in hospitals.
Importance Of Monitoring Oxygen Levels In Patients Having COVID-19
Regular monitoring of oxygen levels in patients suffering from COVID-19 is very important because in most patients, the oxygen levels start fluctuating or dropping and this is when they need constant medical assistance. When the oxygen level starts dropping a person may experience difficulty in breathing. An ideal reading on the oximeter is, SPO2 (oxygen saturation level) must range between 95-100%. Currently, the SPO2 levels till 94% is being considered normal. However, if the reading is 90% or less and is continuously dipping, seek medical help immediately. The person may need to be hospitalized. By the time a bed is arranged, lie in the prone position, but if any discomfort is experienced, do not continue it. Be in constant touch with the doctor, until everything is arranged.
Requirement Of Oximeter At Home
Keeping in mind the seriousness of the current situation, the experts are advising people to keep oximeters handy in their house, so that the oxygen levels can be monitored in case of any symptoms. One must also remember that low oxygen saturation levels do not necessarily mean that you have COVID-19. It can be due to many other reasons as well. Contact your doctor in such a case, even if you have no other symptoms.
This small handy device cannot examine if you are affected by the virus or not. It only measures the oxygen levels. But people having symptoms of COVID-19 or those who have been tested positive must regularly monitor the oxygen level in their body and update their concerned doctor about the same.
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The new strain or mutant of the coronavirus is very virulent. It spreads faster and has varied symptoms. Therefore, early intervention is a must. As soon as you experience any symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Proper treatment in the initial stage is important and can save from worsening the situation. Apart from this, DO NOT STEP OUT unnecessarily of your house. If it is urgent, double masking is advised along with proper sanitization. In case you are visiting hospitals or related places, sanitize properly and take a bath right after coming back. Isolate yourself in case of any symptoms and do not panic. The times are not good but remember, “this too shall pass”. Stay strong and surround yourself with a little positivity.
