Levels

It is also possible for your blood to carry too much oxygen, in an oversaturation known as hyperoxia or oxygen toxicity. Hyperoxia is defined as having oxygen levels above 120 mmHg determined by an arterial blood gas test. This can lead to a wide variety of symptoms ranging from mild to life-threatening. These include:

Also called a "fingertip oxygen meter," the pulse oximeter is easy to use and works in seconds. Plus, it has no needle! The device clips over the tip of your index finger. People with COVID-19 are sometimes instructed by their doctors to monitor their own blood oxygen in this way. According to the New York City Department of Health, COVID-19 patients should measure their blood oxygen level twice a day: once in the morning, and once at night (unless your doctor says to use it more often). Make sure you have batteries installed, then press the clip over your fingertip. Within seconds, the screen will show you your oxygen level. There is an app available for many digital phones that can function like a fingertip oxygen meter.

Many things can cause low blood oxygen. When your body has difficulty delivering enough oxygen to your blood, any of these conditions may contribute: