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Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
March 2, 2025
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A myPHteam Member

From the very fact that you were able to observe the low readings and even able to communicate that and raise a question in this forum indicates that nothing adverse happened to you. Be grateful.

But NO, you should not silently watch when your O2 level drops, because our life depends on it. But take few simple steps immediately.

Yes, I too face that problem, in the nights when I lie down to sleep. Even though I don't gasp for breath, I randomly check it now and then. The moment I notice that it has dropped below 90 with continuous beeps, immediately I get up, sit upright, and start breathing deeply and slowly. Within 30 seconds, O2 level reaches normal range,many times remains in 100. Try to continue this practice whenever you face this issue.

From what I have learnt..., when lying in a supine position (on your back), oxygen levels can be lower compared to sitting upright, because the weight of your organs and abdominal contents compresses the lungs, particularly the back portion, leading to less efficient ventilation and reduced oxygen intake.

Because of the way human bodies are shaped, you have more lung tissue toward your back than your chest. When you’re lying on your back, excess fluid presses on your alveoli, preventing them from completely filling with air. Your heart and abdominal organs at the front of your body also put pressure on your lungs when you’re lying on your back.

Why is sitting upright better for oxygen levels? Gravity helps...
When sitting upright, gravity assists in the distribution of air throughout the lungs, allowing for better ventilation.
Improved diaphragm function:
Sitting upright allows the diaphragm to contract more efficiently.

There are two other positions two: One is "prone position" when you lie down on your belly and the other is "fowler's position" when you sit in the bed with a back rest @45° angle with legs stretched. These two positions are part of hospital routine procedures. Try what is convenient and rewarding to you.

But again, NO, you should not silently watch when your O2 level drops, but take this simple step immediately. Why take risk, when this step is very simple. Hope it works for you too. Take care.🙏😇

March 3, 2025
A myPHteam Member

Kay, definitely seek immediate care! I agree with Cindy613.

March 2, 2025
A myPHteam Member

Kay you should call someone you know and have them take you to ER or call ambulance! That oxygen is to low. ❤️🙏

March 2, 2025
A myPHteam Member

I was told by my doctor when your oxygen drops that low your losing brain cells, and many other life threatening symptoms could occur, time to go to emergency 911 and immediately get on your oxygen!

March 2, 2025 (edited)
myPHteam

This is a serious medical situation that requires immediate attention. An oxygen saturation level below 90 percent is considered harmful, and 77% is dangerously low. The calm feeling you're experiencing could be a sign of severe hypoxemia (low blood oxygen), which can be life-threatening.

If your oxygen levels drop this Show Full Answer

This is a serious medical situation that requires immediate attention. An oxygen saturation level below 90 percent is considered harmful, and 77% is dangerously low. The calm feeling you're experiencing could be a sign of severe hypoxemia (low blood oxygen), which can be life-threatening.

If your oxygen levels drop this low, please seek emergency medical care immediately. Don't wait or try to manage this on your own. Your doctor can measure your oxygen levels through pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas tests to determine if you need supplemental oxygen therapy. Generally, oxygen therapy is prescribed when levels fall below normal ranges (75-100 mm Hg). This is crucial for maintaining your health and preventing complications from pulmonary hypertension.

March 2, 2025

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