Sleep Apnea and SpO2 levels

[optimiss]

My husband was recently diagnosed with Sleep Apnea at a sleep clinic.  He has suffered from severe,  almost
debilitating fatigue for many years,  never knowing why.  He does not snore.  It turns out there is a non-snoring type
of Sleep Apnea,  and not one doctor (of many,  MANY!) ever suggested this as a cause for the fatigue and exhaustion.

Now he is using a CPAP machine,  and adjusting quite well!  My question is:  At the sleep clinic,  his SpO2 (oxygen
saturation level) went down as low as 81% before the mask was applied.  Everything we have read says that this is serious!  Could that low level over a period of time be the cause of extreme daytime fatigue?  Should we get an  oximeter to monitor his SpO2 level both with and without the mask?  Can the CPAP use correct this problem???

At the sleep clinic,  his oxygen saturation level rose to 90% while on his back during non-REM sleep,  and 91% during REM sleep on his back.  The doctor at the sleep clinic did not seem to see this as a red flag.  Does the oxygen saturation level continue to improve as the person uses the CPAP over a period of time?  We are  worried
about damage to the heart!!  Help!!  What should we do next???



This discussion is related to FYI sleep apnea remedy.

[momtofourboys]

You can also purchase an O2 sat monitor which just goes on your finger and most of the time insurance  will pay for it I would get one to monitor it. loss of oxygen can also affect your brain
good luck michelle

[KatEyes]

Lots of questions in there. Yes, low oxygen levels are serious. Nothing should be left to chance. Using a data capable cpap can tell you if the therapy is effective in reducing the apneas, however those aren't usually the first machine issued. His doctor can order an overnight recording oximeter for home use to confirm the cpap's effectiveness is keeping his oxygen level up. Recording devices are quite pricey. Some providers will loan them overnight at little or no cost if they are providing the cpap. Someetimes there are other health issues with the lungs that affect the oxygen levels and require adding oxygen to the cpap if determined there is a need. Sleep apnea certainly can cause daytime fatigue. In many cases, therapeutic cpap treatment restores one to health and vitality. In some, damage can have occured. If any doubt, a cardiac workup wouldn't hurt.