After going up and down 1 flight of stairs my oxygen level goes down to 71% the after 2 minutes I recover back to my normal levels of 88, 89, 90 or 91 . Do many others vary so much ?
Low oxygen levels : After going up and... - Lung Conditions C...
Low oxygen levels
Written by
Rich1957
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51 Replies
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Damon1864Volunteer
Hi Rich I have the same problem I think a lot of us do, although my SATs don't go that low. If you are worried about it then please speak to your GP or nurse they will give you advice. Hope this helps you. Let us know how you are getting on.😊 Bernadette xx
I don’t normally worry about numbers so 71 doesn’t really bother me but I seem to be getting worse 🙈 with how quickly I’m getting out of breathe . At rest I’m fine but at movement I’m suppose to use oxygen 6-8Litres but around the house I can’t really be bothered as it’s bad enough carrying oxygen outside
The way I look at it is that I do know that when my oxygen saturation drops below 90, I am depriving the cells in my body of the oxygen they need. And that kills those cells. What is most frightening to me is that some of those cells could be brain cells. I like having a healthy functioning brain. For that reason alone - I use my oxygen. I do ok around the house if I don't move at my usual fast pace but think "turtle!" But if I am cleaning, sweeping, vacuuming - anything that requires any exertion - on goes the canula. Yes, it is a bother, but I am interested in living a full life and that oxzygen makes that possible.
DO CROSDWORD PUZZLES . THEY REALLY ARE A GREAT EXERCISE FOR YOUR BRAIN. AND I STARTED READING AGAIN. BEST OF LIFE .
PINKY
I don't have your problems just PAH, Cardio & Dysponea- Function /Heart Failure as a daughter of a pharmacist & his father i come at problems from a different angle .I am also dyspraxic & creative MA level.Last year I had oxygen chamber sessions at MS Therapy Centre & Ass Conditions together with acupuncture & Reflexology .Now seeing if can maintain .I know saturation levels come into it & there has been many an elite sportsman in there!
I'm guilty of pulling off my canulla if I'm going out of the room etc as I get fed up of dragging cable around with me. I've seen my sats once as low as 56 and several times in 60 and 70 's but they rose quickly. Reading your post has reminded me I'm playing with fire really so I mustn't be so stupid! 😀
I was rushed to the hospital cause my copd was 71. That is way too low. The doctor in the hospital said 10 more minutes n I would have fallen asleep for ever. In the ambulance they put the. O2 up to 10 just to get me to 80. If I go below 83 i stress. Are you on O 2 ? . but your norm is in the 80's? Becareful n talk to your pulmonologist. Healing thoughts i am sending
PINKY
Hi
My oxygen desaturation was 83, required Ambulitory oxygen therapy.
Ask for referral to respitory team for proper assessment.
71 is to low if it happens constantly.
Mine rapidly goes off a cliff too. I don't know what it is after walking upstairs but it must be in the sevemties, and I'm only on one for sitting and three for walking. I can't be bothered to drag the oxygen pipe round the house.
Me to , my oxygen concentrator is hidden in the living room 😂but I have a bottle of oxygen at the top and bottom of the stairs . Which gives me the confidence in case I need it
Well Rich,and others,very short periods of desaturation are ok if your body recovers quickly but if you continue to exert yourself with O2 levels below the 88-92% recommended levels you will eventually damage other organs.So you have been given oxygen for a reason which is to protect those organs and also give you a better quality of life and more independence,Please use common sense and use the kit you were given or failing that return it so that resource may be allocated to someone who will make better use of it.
Best wishes Ski's and Scruffy
Everyone’s different and at the moment my SATS go down very quickly but fortunately recover very quickly due to me trying to look after my body the best I can with exercise and watching what I eat .
When I say I hide my concentrator , I mean it is out of general view but still use it when I need it . Also I have a very large bottle of oxygen in my garage which I use if and when needed either in my front garden or back or in case of a power cut .
So with you pre judging me really disappoints me and as I said I also have oxygen bottles in various places in case I may need them .
But have you ever tried walking around with an oxygen lead ? Especially upstairs when you open yourself to all sorts of chances of tripping over let alone the embarrassment and inconvenience of using it at home .
Now as I said it has only recently gone this low mostly I imagine due to an operation that went a little wrong and was wondering if anyone else suffers the same way .
When I go to trials ( which I do when ever I can ) they will let me go down to 82 % then stop me as they start to get concerned . So I somewhat disagree with your figures
"But have you ever tried walking around with an oxygen lead ?"
Im surprised you would say that on a lung condition forum Rich. I obviously dont know the proportion of our membership but very many of us do this regularly - it's part of life.
I noticed somewhere else on this thread that you dont like people asking about your O2 - or something similar. I think the important thing to remember, and to say to people, is that O2 is just a medication which replaces something the body needs but cant produce as it's meant to, in other words like thyroxine for an under active thyroid, or insulin for diabetes. People are used to seeing oxygen used when people are near to death, frequently in soap operas. They dont realise that you can indeed be well but still just need the oxygen to life your life. Think of yourself when you are outdoors as an oxygen pioneer educating the community - which they sure do need! 
02Trees I think you’ve misunderstood or I’ve not explained it right . My major issue with my condition is most people judge you on how you look and as I look quite healthy I get treated completely different when I’m not using my oxygen . In fact most people treat you completely differently if they see you with an oxygen mask on is this a good thing or bad ? Personally I don’t want to be treated any differently . On my first trip out with oxygen( a couple of years ago ) I went into a supermarket and put my oxygen bottle In the front of the trolley , as I was pushing it I just literally knocked someone’s bottom with the trolley and she turned around with such a face , then looked at me and was just so apologetic even though it was 100% my fault which the more you think about it frustrates me 🙈.
With regards to me hooking up to my oxygen concentrator I find it far to dangerous to go up and down stairs wearing it and hence the reason I have oxygen bottles in various places around my house . I also have an extra large oxygen bottle in my garage with long leads on which enables me go into my front or rear garden to do what ever I want .
Also I don’t have a problem going out with my oxygen on , my problem ( in my head probably ) is how I get treated when I’m not wearing it . As I’ve seen on here on numerous occasions because I look ok and not ill it doesn’t mean you are people always say “but you look so well “ then I feel I have to explain myself 😢
Yes, that's perpetual drag, Rich. Im on ambulatory which I only need if Im walking more than 100 yards (approx). So if I turn up by car - no oxygen. If I walk then yes, I wear it and people ask if Im unwell again. Constant explanation but Im just glad Im as well as I am and grateful for the oxygen which enables me to participate in stuff I couldnt otherwise.
Oh, and I look very healthy too so I know what you're talking about.
I’m football mad , grassroots especially ( kids footy ) and also go to watch Leicester City and like a fool I sit at the highest point in the stadium and can only get there with my oxygen on 8L ( eventually lol ) although they have offered me a disabled persons spot with a free helper which I may have to take next season . So like you I’m so grateful for it and realise I must use it
• in reply toRich1957
I get what you’re saying. My pulmonologist hasn’t even prescribed oxygen yet but I desaturate just like your numbers. I too look healthy. All my Drs, pulmonologist, cardiologist, rheumatologist, GP, respiratory therapist always say you look so good for having these numbers. No one would know your sick. I’d be self conscience to carry oxygen in public. I know it’s my pride. I know I need oxygen but my pulmonologist says I’m a retainer. So he is reluctant to prescribe. But I know those numbers getting that low time after time can’t be good. To be completely honest it’s not the kind of attention I’m used to getting. Especially in my younger years. I guess I just don’t want to bite the bullet of looking weak and having people pity me.
Rich1957• in reply to
For me I feel I have to explain why I’m on oxygen and people treat you completely different if you are . A couple if weeks ago I went into our local Tesco and one of the staff comes up to me and says “ oh you look so much better today ,I saw you the other day with oxygen on the other day and you looked so bad “ I then had to explain I should wear it upon movement due to my oxygen levels going down really quickly . But when I go into my local Tesco I don’t wear it as I take my time and only pick up an odd couple if bits . At times you wish you looked ill 🙈😂, quite frustrating but I don’t have a problem wearing it out as it’s a must
Feel free to disagree with my figures then do some research on them and i think you will find those are the figures most respiratory consultants would consider safe levels in an acute medical setting so i reckon they are pretty good for LTOT users at home.Exercising at levels below 88% is considered unsafe and i am surprised that your trialists let you function at those levels.
I also use oxygen and readily admit it can be inconvenient with trailing tubes etc but you prejudged yourself by saying you couldn't be bothered to use it but now as you indicate you have various stashes around the house that you use i am happy to retract my statement that you should return the kit.
I also desaturate for fun on exertion but have been advised by my consultant that as long as i am aware of it and take appropriate action,i.e use my oxygen that for short periods of time this should not be anything to be concerned about if like yourself the sats quickly return to a near normal level.
Thank you skischool , I personally hate using oxygen as I feel I have to explain myself to everyone as I don’t look ill . Although I realise in some cases I have to use it but nowhere near probably what I should . Most people who see me say “God Rich you look well “ then I end up having to explain myself which again makes you feel crap as my FEV LEVEL has been between 29 /36 since May . I know people mean well but most people judge on what they can see .
I’ve recently had a PIP assessment at home which went really well and the assessor was lovely ( I know most wont believe that ) and I ended up being award the highest levels in both which was more than I thought . Although when I was asked about cooking I said I did it all and when asked to explain how I was informed I don’t actually cook which I started to disagree with . I said I prepare everything then my children or Mrs puts it in the oven as I struggle to bend , then they take it out of the oven when it’s ready as I can’t bend and carry safely . It’s not until I thought about it I don’t cook just prepare . It goes to show how little things can effect us and in some negatives a positive can come from it . Since receiving the enhanced rate for mobility it has enabled me to have a car which has totally changed my life and feel less of a prisoner. Enough of my crap , apologies to you from me as we should all be trying to help each other not bicker
All the best
Rich
No problem Rich,ironically we have similar conditions,widespread emphysema which in both cases has not really been improved with the insertion of valves,worry not that your procedure went wrong,partial lung collapse is the intention of the procedure but unfortunately in some instance this happens spontaneously and the resultant pneumothorax probably tore the lining of the pleura surrounding the lobe,hence your discomfort and the need for a drain,it is unlikely that this will affect the other parts of your lung but would have put more stress on them.
With regard to Oxygen,try to bin the embarrassment and try to think of it as your best friend and bugger the rest of the world who don't like your new mate,fortunately you have family and friends to support you and congratulations on receiving the full award of pip,likewise i was equally fortunate with my assessment and received the same though i only have a cat to share my ill gotten financial gains. 😹
Good luck in the future and continue with that healthy lifestyle.
Ski's and Scruff's .
no need to feel embarrassed by people looking at you when out shopping or eating out etc. Most people are happy to help if only putting your shopping bags in the trolley. One lady stopped me recently outside a store and asked for advice as her mother had become an oxygen user 3 months earlier and had refused to go outdoors since. Look for the positives in having it . I have a weekly trip to bingo and use mine going in and out . Not seen any other users but doesn't bother me
I don’t check mine but I’d imagine I’m the same. I’m pursed lip breathing 24/7 and upon any exertion can barely stand until I recover after a few minutes. I’ll be 58 this May. I’m alpha 1 ZZ
Stairs are a killer with ou without oxygen..when they test you they give you the 6 minutes walk, it’s a joke compared to stairs..
So you are bound to have those ups and downs but should you not feel comfortable with it, do consult your GP.
skybluepink• in reply to
Do you find time of day makes a difference I have genetic low thyroid too ?
We are all different but me personally I’m probably worse in the morning.
Hi Rich, I,and Ski's are much the same apart from The "Valves" They have worked for me. I have 02 Concentrator(spare Bedroom) of which the Tubing has been Cabled into each room, before this I would have it around my Ankles. I now live in a Bungalow, Council Kindly gave me it after a Lovely letter from my Consultant(she is my savour). I now have to be on 16 hours Oxygen which I can do with my " Shoulder Bag" ( Imogen 1 ), Walking/Wheel Chair/ Mob Scooter, Driving, are all so much Easier. I was having my 4 day assessment for Transplant( 3 years ago), and my Oxygen level would drop to 78 & 82, the nurses said wait till it comes up to 88 -92 then continue.( I had to wear a wrist band to this affect on Discharge) it has never dropped so low since. I too exercise and go to the Gym average 3 days a week, Don't smoke ( did do). Yesterday after my Exercise Class, Me & Hubby were to go Shopping, it was Freezing cold, we went to the Pub instead, couple of Vino's to warm up. Life is Good even with Cannula, which doesn't bother me, it keeps me alive. Cheers to all Friends on the Forum, Wishing you all a Great Weekend, Stay Positive, Stay Happy & Breathe. Love n Hugs XXXX
That’s the spirit, Carolina ❤️! You really are an example and inspiration to us all....I really mean that. Enjoy your day...still got frozen snow and ice here...I won’t be venturing out far myself, though a trip to the warm pub sounds inviting!! Love 💕 Penny xx
Hi , pub definitely sounds the place to be lol
Also I wish I could use a portable device like you , but being a mouth breather it’s impossible to use a pulse device like yours is . Plus as my SATS drop so quickly I need 6-8L upon movement .
Well it looks like everyone’s right inc the hospital that I need to use my oxygen more 😉😂😂
I agree with all & Hospital, and having first hand experience of Sats dropping. I hope you do get into the habit of getting your prescribed 02 levels over the time indicated for you. Any way, Welcome to our Great Forum Rich. Keep Reading & you will Learn all sorts. XXXXX
Have you not been offered the possibility of transplant as you look young and healthy ?
My last visit to my consultant on Xmas eve has recommended I go for a transplant assessment which I agree with , just to see if it’s a possibility for the future. At the moment while my recovery is really good they wouldn’t recommend a transplant but who knows how long I will be like this with my recovery .
I did ask on another post about if I had LVRS would it or could it effect if I had a transplant, unfortunately I got little in the way of an answer lol .
Then today I’ve had a letter from The Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at Glenfield Hospital saying my options are lung transplantation, endobronchial valves or LVRS and that I’ve said I need a little time to think about it .
Well I think they’ve had a little problem recalling what we talked about
I can’t have valves on the left as I’ve already got them and as I have collateral ventilation on the right side that’s a no go !!
I was also told that my perfusion scan showed little to no movement of air in either of my top lungs which I presume means they would want to take most of the top part away with lvrs hence me wanting to know if lvrs can hinder lung replacement in later life . I’m 62 this year and have been told I would probably be considered way past the 65 age limit on having a transplant which is good news
Rich, re-Transplant read my Post at Xmas 2018 on my Hub. xxx
Really interesting and other people’s comments. When I saw it when you posted it ( I do look at a lot of certain people’s comments yours being one ) it made me look more about lung replacement on the internet. After reading up a lot more than I had previously I find that some people are living 20 years after lung replacement which has given me more interest in it . Prior to that I had thought it was just a last resort to try to extend your life and I’d completely discounted it in my head .
I also believe if you are positive thinking it helps a lot and this group although I may not say a lot really helps
As I said in the post, I Am older now, want to have a life, even for a few years more, doubt I would get 20 years more. I Am planning to go to Spain to be with my Family for awhile. I am still on the List untill 19th March. Then I give an ultimate final Descion. After living with the phone next to me waiting for The Call without 1 call for 3 years is quite life shortening. So, I take what I have and enjoy it. I have friends who have had their transplants without waiting long, there are a lot of older patients who are like me 50/50 because of age. Do what you truly want and believe in. I do believe in Transplant, and will encourage anyone to go for that option. My meds, oxygen, keeping fit, Hubby, Family, my Consultant have been my Crutch. Positivity is the main thing. Good Luck Hun. Xxx
Sorry. I thought you looked much younger and didnt know your complex history. I only wish you the best out come possible which ever.
Best wishes steve
Thanks simplesprout , I act a lot younger as well 😂
I’m the same. My lowest has been 69 and the highest it returns is 91. Upon exertion.
I’m asked everytime I see my Drs if I want to be evaluated for a lung transplant. My GP recently told me if I were to get the flu I’d die. I do get flu shots. I have consistently refused transplant as I feel I’m trading one set of problems for another. I’ve done much research. The anti rejection meds are a rough go and leach calcium out of the bones. I have RA and have lost 3” in height due to the arthritis. I have right side heart disease. With my comorbidities I’d just be spending a lot of money and more than likely be declined anyway. I do not have a death wish. I just have accepted the most likely outcome. I see no reason to place my family in poverty when I know I won’t escape the inevitable anyway. My opinion and choice only.
Rich1957• in reply to
I had a really good chat with the professor that looks after me and as he also works in the research it was very informal ( I could ask what I wanted and got answers that were his opinions ) . It was talked about me going on the transplant list but as he talked me though all of my options for over an hour and showed me all my CT Scans and what I’d be best to have and he couldn’t see me needing one ( in his words if I was a betting man you wont need one before your 70 at least ) . My other options were to have at least 2/3rds of my right lung took away but due to the holes ( but for a better word ) in-between the 3 parts I’d see virtually no improvement or be worse off . The left side I could have a few more valves inserted at the top which could see a slight improvement but as one of the valves I had put in 18 months ago has moved and improved my FEV 1 level back up from 28% to 35/36% he couldn’t guarantee any more .
So basically I’m to keep doing what I’ve been doing for the last 10 years to keep my fev 1 level the same . They’ve also agreed to keep me on trials to keep a close eye on me
❤️our NHS
• in reply toRich1957
I did much research as well. Asked my Dr for his honest opinion. He told me with all you’re dealing with I personally wouldn’t go under the knife. It is a gamble . I could live longer not having a transplant or possibly not. But I’m taking my chances and declining the transplant.
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