When does oxygen saturation become critical?
The oxygen saturation becomes critical at a value of 85% and below. The haemoglobin (red blood pigment) can no longer be sufficiently loaded with oxygen, so that the cells in the body receive too little oxygen and die. If no treatment is given, the tissue can be damaged to such an extent that it cannot recover.
This condition is irreversible. Organs such as the brain or the heart, which have a high oxygen demand, are particularly sensitive to such damage. Values above 90% and below should also be treated, but they are not particularly critical.
What can you do to increase oxygen saturation?
Various options are available to increase oxygen saturation. One should begin with a change in lifestyle. Smokers should definitely give up smoking.
If you are overweight, it is advisable to lose weight and exercise regularly. Recommended sports are yoga, slow jogging and cycling. Yoga in particular promotes conscious breathing and can improve efficiency and satiety.
Furthermore, walks or generally stays in the fresh air are recommended. If these changes do not lead to a sufficient improvement, further measures can be taken. If the values are permanently lowered, additional oxygen can be added.
This is done by means of oxygen goggles, which direct the oxygen from special bottles directly to the nose. Mostly the patients feel more vital and are more efficient. Meanwhile, small, portable oxygen bottles are also available, so that one does not have to be afraid to be tied to the bed.
In addition, special medication can be prescribed to improve lung function. These can be inhaled corticosteroids or beta-2 agonists. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and prevent potential infections.
Beta-2 agonists, such as salbutamol, dilate the bronchial tubes and enable freer breathing. The treatment options are constantly improving and for this reason it is advisable to see your doctor regularly and seek advice. These articles may also be of interest to you:
- The therapy of COPD
- The therapy of asthma
