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Uses of Pulse Oximeter in Rhythm Monitoring
Most (all?) of you have seen the small clip-on-the-finger over a finger nail used in doctor offices to measure the Oxygen Saturation level in your blood (target 95% or better I believe). These doctors don't have a pulse display on their units or simply prefer the manual method to measure pulse rate, which both the nurse and doctor do, the doctor of course also listens to my heart with a stethoscope.
It is difficult for me to feel my pulse (a blessing in many respects) and I have for years used a stethoscope to count my pulses, heart rate. The only indication I have of the blood oxygen saturation is if I am dizzy or breathless more than what I recall as normal. I have thought that it would be helpful to be able to measure the O2 level at those times and even to run a DIY sleep test (this in general would require a recording meter).
When I saw this type instrument with a combined HR and O2 plus a pulse intensity readout for under $25 delivered I ordered one.
Here's what I learned for my profile and what I have concluded about a number of aspects of my AFib condition on my physical being. I compared/checked the device HR by counting my HR while using the clip on, good agreement. I checked my wife who does not have any diagnosed heart conditions and found reaso6 nable readings and a smoother more uniform heart intensity readout than I got for myself with AFib.. as expected. I take the intensity differences between her and me indicative, not quantitative even though it is provided via a 6 bar readout scale.
I found my O2 consistently obove 95% even when I was feeling O2 starved, like when standing up quickly. I also found my HR reasonable and in the 70s when resting and typically around 100 when in light physical activity.
Now for sleeping, or really maximum rested times.
I did not get a recording meter for $25, but as I wake up often during the night it is easy for me to clip the device on with minimum physical effort when I wake up. Some interesting findings (to me) - I am on a normal release Metoprolol (BB) and Calcium CB which is taken at about 10:30 PM, so by 1:30 AM I am still in the fully medicated area of the BB concentration (half life of 4 hours assumed).
Early in the morning (around 2 AM) I found my fully relaxed in bed HR as low as upper 50s and O2 levels as low as 90%. Later in the morning (around 5 or 6 AM) I found my HR around 70, suggesting the BB had lost a considerable % of its strength (now in its 2nd half live, about 75% metabolized) and the O2 levels over 95%. This seems reasonable and in fact during the day my seated and fully resting HR runs in the 70s to 80s. The lower O2 level of 90%, which is the threshold of trouble as I understand, at 2 AM is a minor concern to me. This many not be a trouble indicator under the condition of being under BB and CCB near full strength and just in/out of sleep resting state. I continue to check and see if my results are consistent/repeated.
In any case I find having this testing device affordable and quick way to check my HR, and also get the O2 saturation - the value of the heart intensity readout is not clear, but does give me some concern... guess it is the variations I hear with the stethoscope.
It is difficult for me to feel my pulse (a blessing in many respects) and I have for years used a stethoscope to count my pulses, heart rate. The only indication I have of the blood oxygen saturation is if I am dizzy or breathless more than what I recall as normal. I have thought that it would be helpful to be able to measure the O2 level at those times and even to run a DIY sleep test (this in general would require a recording meter).
When I saw this type instrument with a combined HR and O2 plus a pulse intensity readout for under $25 delivered I ordered one.
Here's what I learned for my profile and what I have concluded about a number of aspects of my AFib condition on my physical being. I compared/checked the device HR by counting my HR while using the clip on, good agreement. I checked my wife who does not have any diagnosed heart conditions and found reaso6 nable readings and a smoother more uniform heart intensity readout than I got for myself with AFib.. as expected. I take the intensity differences between her and me indicative, not quantitative even though it is provided via a 6 bar readout scale.
I found my O2 consistently obove 95% even when I was feeling O2 starved, like when standing up quickly. I also found my HR reasonable and in the 70s when resting and typically around 100 when in light physical activity.
Now for sleeping, or really maximum rested times.
I did not get a recording meter for $25, but as I wake up often during the night it is easy for me to clip the device on with minimum physical effort when I wake up. Some interesting findings (to me) - I am on a normal release Metoprolol (BB) and Calcium CB which is taken at about 10:30 PM, so by 1:30 AM I am still in the fully medicated area of the BB concentration (half life of 4 hours assumed).
Early in the morning (around 2 AM) I found my fully relaxed in bed HR as low as upper 50s and O2 levels as low as 90%. Later in the morning (around 5 or 6 AM) I found my HR around 70, suggesting the BB had lost a considerable % of its strength (now in its 2nd half live, about 75% metabolized) and the O2 levels over 95%. This seems reasonable and in fact during the day my seated and fully resting HR runs in the 70s to 80s. The lower O2 level of 90%, which is the threshold of trouble as I understand, at 2 AM is a minor concern to me. This many not be a trouble indicator under the condition of being under BB and CCB near full strength and just in/out of sleep resting state. I continue to check and see if my results are consistent/repeated.
In any case I find having this testing device affordable and quick way to check my HR, and also get the O2 saturation - the value of the heart intensity readout is not clear, but does give me some concern... guess it is the variations I hear with the stethoscope.
COMMUNITY LEADER
I eventually lost 25 pounds against my maximum weight of 250 (10%). When the sleep study was done my weight was closer to 245 and I have been as low as 225, run closer to 230 most of the time. I remain about 6 feet 5 inches in height.
I have not yet done a follow-up at home recording Oximeter test but as my annual physical is coming up (yet to schedule) that seems to be a good point to ask my Primary Care to run the test again.
As far as I am concerned, I no longer suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea Maybe that will help me hold my weight near the 225 range.. additional benefits include: look better/healthier, and feel that way too.
I have not yet done a follow-up at home recording Oximeter test but as my annual physical is coming up (yet to schedule) that seems to be a good point to ask my Primary Care to run the test again.
As far as I am concerned, I no longer suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnea Maybe that will help me hold my weight near the 225 range.. additional benefits include: look better/healthier, and feel that way too.
Thanks for sharing your comments with us. They're helpful for our community members. Everyone is welcome to continue answering this thread, as well as look for new questions each month!
Best,
Cheryl
MedHelp
Best,
Cheryl
MedHelp
COMMUNITY LEADER
Progress, I have lost about 12 pounds to this date, July 10.
It is clear to me that:
Loss of weight is reducing if no eliminating my Obstructive Sleep Apnea, an at home recording Oximeter test is yet to be done, I'm working on getting 20 pounds off before I ask the doctor to prescript the Oximeter test.
While the Oximeter is not a replacement for a Sleep Study, I had one, it was essential in the determination of the need for a sleep study and it will be considered a test for the cure.
If I don't get good results with the Oximeter test it seems I am destined for a CPAP. I'll keep this tread posted.
It is clear to me that:
Loss of weight is reducing if no eliminating my Obstructive Sleep Apnea, an at home recording Oximeter test is yet to be done, I'm working on getting 20 pounds off before I ask the doctor to prescript the Oximeter test.
While the Oximeter is not a replacement for a Sleep Study, I had one, it was essential in the determination of the need for a sleep study and it will be considered a test for the cure.
If I don't get good results with the Oximeter test it seems I am destined for a CPAP. I'll keep this tread posted.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Thanks, I am aware of the dental/mouth/jaw device, but I am still working on losing weight and hope that will fix the problem, at least for a year or two.
I have lost 8 pounds as of yesterday, the one month point from the date I told my doctor I could lose 20 pounds in two months. I am a bit behind, but more important I no longer wake in a panic from a sense of suffocation.
Back to the oximeter, I still keep it on my bed side table and when I wake for whatever reason I check my pulse and oxygen levels. I have seen nothing lower than 94%, which is just marginally low. Before losing weight I was able to catch a reading in the 85% range, a trouble range.
I still wonder how much my nasal congestion contributes to OSA symptoms of suffocation, it shouldn't as I can still breath through my mouth and do if dry mouth is any indication of mouth breathing.
The improvement I've seen at 8 pounds off make me think if I can reach 15 pounds off in two months and my symptoms still seem improved I'll ask my doctor to prescribe an overnight recording oximeter test. This is no where near as through as a sleep study (say $6K) but if I no longer have low oxygen saturation levels it is a strong indication I can just go forward and keep the weight off, permanently. Over the last few years I've ranged between 235 and 255, I'm now at 237 and was 245 when the sleep study was done.
I have lost 8 pounds as of yesterday, the one month point from the date I told my doctor I could lose 20 pounds in two months. I am a bit behind, but more important I no longer wake in a panic from a sense of suffocation.
Back to the oximeter, I still keep it on my bed side table and when I wake for whatever reason I check my pulse and oxygen levels. I have seen nothing lower than 94%, which is just marginally low. Before losing weight I was able to catch a reading in the 85% range, a trouble range.
I still wonder how much my nasal congestion contributes to OSA symptoms of suffocation, it shouldn't as I can still breath through my mouth and do if dry mouth is any indication of mouth breathing.
The improvement I've seen at 8 pounds off make me think if I can reach 15 pounds off in two months and my symptoms still seem improved I'll ask my doctor to prescribe an overnight recording oximeter test. This is no where near as through as a sleep study (say $6K) but if I no longer have low oxygen saturation levels it is a strong indication I can just go forward and keep the weight off, permanently. Over the last few years I've ranged between 235 and 255, I'm now at 237 and was 245 when the sleep study was done.
I don't know if you are aware of this, but there is a dental device, an appliance that can be fitted to treat sleep apnea. My cousin got tired of the c-pap, which can be tiresome, and says the dental appliance is working fine. If I can get my afib ducks in a row, I will be looking into it. Unfortunately, with age, there is ALWAYS something to look into:) I try to focus on the fact there is help for some of these issues and be grateful for that. I use a Nasal Aire II device, similar to a nasal cannula for oxygen, as I can't tolerate a mask sitting on my face. Also, there is a ENT doctor here who is doing robotic surgery for sleep apnea. It is fairly new and I have enough "irons in the fire" so I am not looking at that at this point, but it might be something to consider, depending on the severity of your condition. Good luck to both of you on navigating the sleep apnea issues.
COMMUNITY LEADER
I believe there has been a relationship between OSA and heart problems, specifically atrial fibrillation. In my case the AFib predates any OSA symptoms by at least 10 years so none of my doctors (I haven't yet talked with my cardiologist) sees a direct connection. My AFib is now fully established and fibrosis most likely has set in, so I do not see any improvement of my heart condition due to solving the OSA issue.
I continue to make same reductions in my weight and continue to feel few or no feelings of suffocation when I awake during the sleep period (early AM hours). I still suffer from chronic nasal congestion, and this can of itself give a feeling of difficulty to breath - not a severe as a feeling of suffocation, but still uncomfortable.
I have made some minor attempts to get a direct connection between breathing and my oximeter O2 saturation level. I do see some improvement over a couple of rounds of breathing deeply through my mouth, but the change is small, only a percent or two, but then my blood is always over 90% when I try this. I haven't seen any readings below 90% since I lost as little as 5 pounds - I'm down now at least 8 pounds.
I continue to make same reductions in my weight and continue to feel few or no feelings of suffocation when I awake during the sleep period (early AM hours). I still suffer from chronic nasal congestion, and this can of itself give a feeling of difficulty to breath - not a severe as a feeling of suffocation, but still uncomfortable.
I have made some minor attempts to get a direct connection between breathing and my oximeter O2 saturation level. I do see some improvement over a couple of rounds of breathing deeply through my mouth, but the change is small, only a percent or two, but then my blood is always over 90% when I try this. I haven't seen any readings below 90% since I lost as little as 5 pounds - I'm down now at least 8 pounds.
Now I have new ins and new dr's I'm going to talk to them about the OSA and last dr because my ICD shows so much activity at night and I'm wondering if part of the problem isn't the sleep problem. I wanted the Oximeter to print out or take to them to say see? I have a problem.
My sleep study was a few years ago so I may mention another one but I'm not sure what to do since I can't use a CPAP. It may be due to a broken nose as a teen I've had breathing problems since then or may be due to my heart - when they put the masks on and the air goes through I fainted and went into VT and they were going to put me in the hospital it was so severe. I went back and tried 4 or 5 others but same thing; so they recommened another sleep study which I didn't see the point and my ins said no you just had one.
thanks for the info will talk to the EP when I go next week and get a referral to a new dr
My sleep study was a few years ago so I may mention another one but I'm not sure what to do since I can't use a CPAP. It may be due to a broken nose as a teen I've had breathing problems since then or may be due to my heart - when they put the masks on and the air goes through I fainted and went into VT and they were going to put me in the hospital it was so severe. I went back and tried 4 or 5 others but same thing; so they recommened another sleep study which I didn't see the point and my ins said no you just had one.
thanks for the info will talk to the EP when I go next week and get a referral to a new dr
COMMUNITY LEADER
Weight is just one contributor, not The cause, of OSA. In my case, a mild one in which my O2 never got as low as 72%, in my view a drastic low level. I the reading was part of a sleep study there is other data/measures on the time-line. I do not understand the statement "weren't overly concerned." My Pulmonary doctor says if my "mild" case of OSA isn't improved by losing weight he will recommend a CPAP. I can check but I think my low was closer to 85%, and the aggregate time was a few minutes over many short run occurrences.
I have lost about 6 pounds so far and think I can already detect some improvement in my sleep, I don't wake up gasping for air (or not as much). My target is to lose another 10 pounds at least and then discuss with the doctor another round of a "recording oximeter" run overnight in my own home. This was very inexpensive if I understand the billing associated with my first run. It was under $100, and I still doubt that is correct, I do have Medicare and Private insurance, but I saw what I understood to be the full bill, and it was very low. For that fee I was provided delivered to my home the equipment with instructions, a pick up of the equipment the next day and a written report sent to my doctor, who prescribed the test. I'd bet one can order the test, no doctor needed. But, if one wants to record on their own a recording oximeter can be purchased, and I believe that can be done for about $100. The oximeter I have can not record, just a real-time readout and cost about $25. This was the tool that put me on to the need for a OSA test. I put the meter on my bed table and when I awoke during the sleep period, especially if I felt shortness of breath, I clipped the meter on. This gave me readings as low as 85%..which was confirmed by the recording run and by my sleep study done in the hospital.
I understand the oximeter which just records pulse and O2 saturation is not a "sleep study", but I think it is a major component of that and if one "passes" the oximeter test they most likely do not have OSA.
My sleep study shows I slept most of the time on one side or the other, no tennis balls needed. I could have forecaster that result, I don't like to sleep on my back. But, I still had periods of low oxygen, again low is less than 95%.
I have lost about 6 pounds so far and think I can already detect some improvement in my sleep, I don't wake up gasping for air (or not as much). My target is to lose another 10 pounds at least and then discuss with the doctor another round of a "recording oximeter" run overnight in my own home. This was very inexpensive if I understand the billing associated with my first run. It was under $100, and I still doubt that is correct, I do have Medicare and Private insurance, but I saw what I understood to be the full bill, and it was very low. For that fee I was provided delivered to my home the equipment with instructions, a pick up of the equipment the next day and a written report sent to my doctor, who prescribed the test. I'd bet one can order the test, no doctor needed. But, if one wants to record on their own a recording oximeter can be purchased, and I believe that can be done for about $100. The oximeter I have can not record, just a real-time readout and cost about $25. This was the tool that put me on to the need for a OSA test. I put the meter on my bed table and when I awoke during the sleep period, especially if I felt shortness of breath, I clipped the meter on. This gave me readings as low as 85%..which was confirmed by the recording run and by my sleep study done in the hospital.
I understand the oximeter which just records pulse and O2 saturation is not a "sleep study", but I think it is a major component of that and if one "passes" the oximeter test they most likely do not have OSA.
My sleep study shows I slept most of the time on one side or the other, no tennis balls needed. I could have forecaster that result, I don't like to sleep on my back. But, I still had periods of low oxygen, again low is less than 95%.
Could this be used for Sleep Apnea to check the 02 levels at night? I would be interested in getting one since nothing they've tried worked for my OSA yet.
I keep telling them part of my problem is sleep apnea - they tell me to lose 30 lbs and I'll be fine - which I think is hogwash; I had OSA even before they stopped me exercising and I gained weight. I did find that putting a tennis ball in a pillowcase under my side when I fall asleep does seem to help where I won't roll on my back.
I've had more health problems in the past 5-6 months and they think I had a heart attack and I'm going through tons of testing the next few weeks and I question if the lack of oxygen at night isn't a culprit - my sleep study showed my o2 @ 72% yet they weren't overly concerned.
Does this meter or any that anyone has tried keep a log or print outs? that way I can take it and show them.
I keep telling them part of my problem is sleep apnea - they tell me to lose 30 lbs and I'll be fine - which I think is hogwash; I had OSA even before they stopped me exercising and I gained weight. I did find that putting a tennis ball in a pillowcase under my side when I fall asleep does seem to help where I won't roll on my back.
I've had more health problems in the past 5-6 months and they think I had a heart attack and I'm going through tons of testing the next few weeks and I question if the lack of oxygen at night isn't a culprit - my sleep study showed my o2 @ 72% yet they weren't overly concerned.
Does this meter or any that anyone has tried keep a log or print outs? that way I can take it and show them.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Quick update, hope I am not repeating myself as I recall posting this information somewhere, else?
I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea and have agreement from my doctor to try losing weight first. My target was to lose 20 pounds in four weeks, well it is now three weeks and I've lost only 5 pounds. But I think the "ball is in my court" and the doctor will not call to follow up. I think I see a small improvement with just a 5 pound loss. The test will be another over night Oximeter test and if it looks good (no below 95% readings) I am "cured", for now just don't put the pounds back on.
I was surprised about the weight issue as I weighted about 245 and am almost 6' 6" (was once, now shrinking with age), yet that puts me about on the line for obese - wow, what a "twiggy" world we now live in. But, if getting down to even 230 stops the sleep apnea I will be convinced I was over weight, at least for my age. Yep, I backed of to losing only 15 pounds and I think that may do it from where I now stand with 5 pounds off.
I was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea and have agreement from my doctor to try losing weight first. My target was to lose 20 pounds in four weeks, well it is now three weeks and I've lost only 5 pounds. But I think the "ball is in my court" and the doctor will not call to follow up. I think I see a small improvement with just a 5 pound loss. The test will be another over night Oximeter test and if it looks good (no below 95% readings) I am "cured", for now just don't put the pounds back on.
I was surprised about the weight issue as I weighted about 245 and am almost 6' 6" (was once, now shrinking with age), yet that puts me about on the line for obese - wow, what a "twiggy" world we now live in. But, if getting down to even 230 stops the sleep apnea I will be convinced I was over weight, at least for my age. Yep, I backed of to losing only 15 pounds and I think that may do it from where I now stand with 5 pounds off.
I'll be interested to hear what you learn when you see the doctor for your report. I did not dream for several years when I had sleep apnea, altho I always dreamed in technicolor and very vivid, intricate dreams previously. After I started using the cpap, I am back to dreaming again. Not sure if that is helpful for your situation, but I think you are right, there may be a connection. Good luck and let us know what you learn.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Hope the Rythmol works... as I think I have already told you I didn't have any side effects from Rythmol, but I didn't get any benefits either, it couldn't even hold me in NSR following an electrocardioversion.
On the sleep study: I got home bright and early this morning from the hospital, my sleep study was done overnight. I had some trouble sleeping, felt like I was wired for a trip to Mars if not further into space. I think I did enough sleeping for the test to record critical data... bet I have a confirmed mild (hope mild) obstructive sleep apnea problem. I don't know it that is related to my night time nasal congestion, but it seems possible, and for some reason I had far less over night congestion - maybe I have something in my bedroom to which I am allergic. I don't think so, as I have had congestion when traveling and staying in hotels. I had a breathing monitor attached to my face, looks like the supplementary oxygen feed devices, but it was to measure breathing, not provide oxygen. I though maybe that helped keep my sinus open, the technician didn't think so, but that's a question for the doctor, not the tech.
I sent an email to a fishing buddy, who no longer lives near me, about my upcoming sleep study. He is about 10 years younger than me and I figured I'd get some sympathy.. not so, better, he said he's been using a CPAP for about 4 years and "loves it".. said he immediately felt better due to much better sleeping and doesn't find wearing it a problem. The above note on the sleep study also appears in a post by me on the ENT Community. I see a possible connection between AFig, Dreaming problems, and my yet to be diagnosed apnea.
On the sleep study: I got home bright and early this morning from the hospital, my sleep study was done overnight. I had some trouble sleeping, felt like I was wired for a trip to Mars if not further into space. I think I did enough sleeping for the test to record critical data... bet I have a confirmed mild (hope mild) obstructive sleep apnea problem. I don't know it that is related to my night time nasal congestion, but it seems possible, and for some reason I had far less over night congestion - maybe I have something in my bedroom to which I am allergic. I don't think so, as I have had congestion when traveling and staying in hotels. I had a breathing monitor attached to my face, looks like the supplementary oxygen feed devices, but it was to measure breathing, not provide oxygen. I though maybe that helped keep my sinus open, the technician didn't think so, but that's a question for the doctor, not the tech.
I sent an email to a fishing buddy, who no longer lives near me, about my upcoming sleep study. He is about 10 years younger than me and I figured I'd get some sympathy.. not so, better, he said he's been using a CPAP for about 4 years and "loves it".. said he immediately felt better due to much better sleeping and doesn't find wearing it a problem. The above note on the sleep study also appears in a post by me on the ENT Community. I see a possible connection between AFig, Dreaming problems, and my yet to be diagnosed apnea.
Jerry -- if you indeed have sleep apnea, it could be contributing to your ongoing afib. My ep thinks my afib was caused by my (undiagnosed) sleep apnea over a number of years.
I have used the cpap for 10 years and after a period of adjustment, it is not too bad. I would prefer not to need it, but it is tolerable and I can't imagine trying to get along without it. I was exhausted all the time without knowing why before I got the machine. They do have a Nasal Aire II cannula type device that makes it possible to use with out having a mask sitting on your face, something I could not tolerate.
I just purchased a pulse oximeter and have notice when waking my oxygen is low, then slowly comes up. I am due for a pulmonary consultation and perhaps another sleep study, so will inquire then whether this is an issue I need be concerned with.
I am in the process of switching from Norpace (been off of it for 3 days) to Rhythmol (start tomorrow). I have been using my Atenolol and Xanax and have had just a few flutters after the first day, when I had some irregular beats. Makes me wonder if the Atenolol alone might control it. I see my ep in 2 weeks for an ekg and a visit to determine how I'm feeling. I hope the Rythmol works, altho reading the precautions is the stuff of nightmares:P I will be interested to see how it all shakes out.
Take care and keep us posted on how the sleep study goes. Cpap is not all that bad if it comes to that and you may well feel a lot better stamina-wise. Good luck.
I have used the cpap for 10 years and after a period of adjustment, it is not too bad. I would prefer not to need it, but it is tolerable and I can't imagine trying to get along without it. I was exhausted all the time without knowing why before I got the machine. They do have a Nasal Aire II cannula type device that makes it possible to use with out having a mask sitting on your face, something I could not tolerate.
I just purchased a pulse oximeter and have notice when waking my oxygen is low, then slowly comes up. I am due for a pulmonary consultation and perhaps another sleep study, so will inquire then whether this is an issue I need be concerned with.
I am in the process of switching from Norpace (been off of it for 3 days) to Rhythmol (start tomorrow). I have been using my Atenolol and Xanax and have had just a few flutters after the first day, when I had some irregular beats. Makes me wonder if the Atenolol alone might control it. I see my ep in 2 weeks for an ekg and a visit to determine how I'm feeling. I hope the Rythmol works, altho reading the precautions is the stuff of nightmares:P I will be interested to see how it all shakes out.
Take care and keep us posted on how the sleep study goes. Cpap is not all that bad if it comes to that and you may well feel a lot better stamina-wise. Good luck.
COMMUNITY LEADER
I had chest X-rays and when with them to a Pulmonary Specialist. He said no lung problems were indicated from the X-ray images. But visible inspection of my throat (wind pipe) and the Oximeter record he prescribed a Sleep Study. That will take place tomorrow night at my local hospital.
I sent a friend (fishing buddy of the past who is about 10 years younger than me) my story about the upcoming sleep study. He wrote back that he has been using a CPAP for about 4 years, and LOVES IT. He said it showed him how good he can feel when he gets a good night's sleep. I still hope to avoid, the Pulmonologist said some of the minor constriction in my throat could be due to being overweight, the standards says I am obese at 250 and 6'5" I find that term obese an overstatement of my case, I weighted about 230 when I was still a runner. But, I'd rather try to lose 25 pounds than have to deal with a CPAP. So, some good news: Lungs look okay (in spite of my history as a past smoker) and the purchase of the Oximeter put me on the path of getting this health problem examined. Yes, and my new doctors have all accepted me as a Medicare patient - thus my personal out-of-pocket cost will be no more than 20% of the reduced Medicare rate schedule. I do have a secondary insurance plan but my health is so "good" I have not even paid the deductible in recent years. My secondary pays nothing until I pay the deductible as is normal.
I am not sure how much this tracks "Heart Rhythm" but as the subject says, I purchased the Oximeter to help me adjust my beta blocker (now Antenolol) that is use the heart rate reading, which I have. I am now up to the full prescribed beta blocker dose of 25 mg every 12 hours. I think I have adjusted to Antenolol sufficiently for that level to not "too much" dizziness when I stand. I will report here too on the results of the Sleep Study.
I sent a friend (fishing buddy of the past who is about 10 years younger than me) my story about the upcoming sleep study. He wrote back that he has been using a CPAP for about 4 years, and LOVES IT. He said it showed him how good he can feel when he gets a good night's sleep. I still hope to avoid, the Pulmonologist said some of the minor constriction in my throat could be due to being overweight, the standards says I am obese at 250 and 6'5" I find that term obese an overstatement of my case, I weighted about 230 when I was still a runner. But, I'd rather try to lose 25 pounds than have to deal with a CPAP. So, some good news: Lungs look okay (in spite of my history as a past smoker) and the purchase of the Oximeter put me on the path of getting this health problem examined. Yes, and my new doctors have all accepted me as a Medicare patient - thus my personal out-of-pocket cost will be no more than 20% of the reduced Medicare rate schedule. I do have a secondary insurance plan but my health is so "good" I have not even paid the deductible in recent years. My secondary pays nothing until I pay the deductible as is normal.
I am not sure how much this tracks "Heart Rhythm" but as the subject says, I purchased the Oximeter to help me adjust my beta blocker (now Antenolol) that is use the heart rate reading, which I have. I am now up to the full prescribed beta blocker dose of 25 mg every 12 hours. I think I have adjusted to Antenolol sufficiently for that level to not "too much" dizziness when I stand. I will report here too on the results of the Sleep Study.
COMMUNITY LEADER
The US Health Care system is still working great. Look at the progress in under 10 days.
Monday March 25, Annual Physical Exam. I mention to my doctor my continuing congestion problem and my sense of suffocation sometimes when I awake form sleep. Told him I have my own Oximeter and have observed oxygen saturation levels below 90% for brief periods.
Wednesday/Thursday March 27/28 I wear a recording Oximeter with results reported to my primary care doctor Thursday or Friday. The equipment was delivered and picked up form my home by the COPD service company.
Monday April 1, I get a telephone call form the COPD company suggestion delivery of oxygen, I said "hold on" I haven't yet discussed with my doctor.l
Tuesday April 2, my doctor agrees supplementary oxygen is not yet confirmed as needed, refers me to a Pulmonary specialist. Gives me a copy of the report that shows I logged over 8 minutes in the 85/86% saturation level. I telephone the Pulmonary Specialist for an appointment, one was set for Thursday morning, April 4, and I was sent to hospital for chest X-rays which were completed within minutes of my arrival.
Bad news, is it appears I may have COPD or Apnea problems. I may undergo a full Sleep Study, that has not yet been determined.
The value of the Oximeter I purchased has proven to be high, I would not have asked for a recording oximeter at home test if I hadn't observed the low reading when waking during my sleeping period.
Monday March 25, Annual Physical Exam. I mention to my doctor my continuing congestion problem and my sense of suffocation sometimes when I awake form sleep. Told him I have my own Oximeter and have observed oxygen saturation levels below 90% for brief periods.
Wednesday/Thursday March 27/28 I wear a recording Oximeter with results reported to my primary care doctor Thursday or Friday. The equipment was delivered and picked up form my home by the COPD service company.
Monday April 1, I get a telephone call form the COPD company suggestion delivery of oxygen, I said "hold on" I haven't yet discussed with my doctor.l
Tuesday April 2, my doctor agrees supplementary oxygen is not yet confirmed as needed, refers me to a Pulmonary specialist. Gives me a copy of the report that shows I logged over 8 minutes in the 85/86% saturation level. I telephone the Pulmonary Specialist for an appointment, one was set for Thursday morning, April 4, and I was sent to hospital for chest X-rays which were completed within minutes of my arrival.
Bad news, is it appears I may have COPD or Apnea problems. I may undergo a full Sleep Study, that has not yet been determined.
The value of the Oximeter I purchased has proven to be high, I would not have asked for a recording oximeter at home test if I hadn't observed the low reading when waking during my sleeping period.
COMMUNITY LEADER
I would be surprised if a O2 o 96% would cause any symptoms, or "feeling bad". I just checked mine an it reads 97%, I don't recall ever seening 100% and a 99% is very rare for me.
As for feeling bad when walking, I can no longer walk up a hill without stopping... I think it is more a question of my legs feeling very tired/stiff, not of being breathless. I attribute all of this to my AFib and my beta blocker med.
This being a weekend and Easter as well today, I have nothing back from my doctor on my overnight O2% recording. I will ask for a copy of the data to look at myself and will have a few questions if he says all looks okay.
One question is about the 02% going down to 90% or lower, even if just for brief periods... or asked another way, is it normal when one is asleep for the O2% to drop as the need for oxygen is much reduced when in t sleeping state.
My wife said this morning that she awoke an noticed I was breathing very softly, then more normally. She said she put a hand on my side to feel for breathing as the sound was too low even for her excellent hearing.
I man need ot go in for a "sleep study" if there are any questions from the Recording Oximeter test.
As for feeling bad when walking, I can no longer walk up a hill without stopping... I think it is more a question of my legs feeling very tired/stiff, not of being breathless. I attribute all of this to my AFib and my beta blocker med.
This being a weekend and Easter as well today, I have nothing back from my doctor on my overnight O2% recording. I will ask for a copy of the data to look at myself and will have a few questions if he says all looks okay.
One question is about the 02% going down to 90% or lower, even if just for brief periods... or asked another way, is it normal when one is asleep for the O2% to drop as the need for oxygen is much reduced when in t sleeping state.
My wife said this morning that she awoke an noticed I was breathing very softly, then more normally. She said she put a hand on my side to feel for breathing as the sound was too low even for her excellent hearing.
I man need ot go in for a "sleep study" if there are any questions from the Recording Oximeter test.
I hope that you will get help and be well.
I have had a couple of times nasal congestion when suddenly woken. I have postnasal drip, and my eye pain is continuying.
Recently I have found oxygen readings slightly lower than during AF. When I was walking outside during AF, my ox.% went often to99 or 100. Now it often goes to 96 during walking and I don't feel well during walking.
I have the result of a spirometria test done on March 4. There I see that MEF50 is too low, 47% before and 56 after Ventoline inhalation. The result is similar to that from a few years ago, when they said to me that I have some obstruction in my smaller bronchioles. No cause is known for this. I don't smoke. Could there be some connection with the obstruction and AF? Could AF have damaged my lungs and therefore I don't feel well during walking? I have not yet had a doctor's consultation about the spirometria result. It has to be noted that I had a long-lasting respiratory infection in January-February of this year.
I have had a couple of times nasal congestion when suddenly woken. I have postnasal drip, and my eye pain is continuying.
Recently I have found oxygen readings slightly lower than during AF. When I was walking outside during AF, my ox.% went often to99 or 100. Now it often goes to 96 during walking and I don't feel well during walking.
I have the result of a spirometria test done on March 4. There I see that MEF50 is too low, 47% before and 56 after Ventoline inhalation. The result is similar to that from a few years ago, when they said to me that I have some obstruction in my smaller bronchioles. No cause is known for this. I don't smoke. Could there be some connection with the obstruction and AF? Could AF have damaged my lungs and therefore I don't feel well during walking? I have not yet had a doctor's consultation about the spirometria result. It has to be noted that I had a long-lasting respiratory infection in January-February of this year.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Prescribed Oximeter over night run made last night 11:30 PM to 7:30 AM this morning. The unit is a compact finger unit (just the Modem) with a flexible 6' or so cable connecting it to a small (about size of a medium human hand) recording and display unit. It displays heart rate and oxygen % in real time. The finger unit was secured by me with supplied "No stick" medical tape. I put tape around the cable and around the "clamp on" Modem.
While my concern expressed to my PM Doctor was sleep apnea, the test service is about COPD, which is the test that was run, I now understand. I suppose if I stopped breathing for brief periods that too would show a sudden drops in % oxygen. I will ask my doctor about that.
An immediate concern to me was that I observed a O2 reading in the low 90% many times during my awake times. These did pass with the reading returning to 97% or more for most of the time. I could not associate the lower readings with any sense of suffocation, our difficulty breathing. As always I struggled with nasal congestion.
This experience is yet another experience I have with the wonderful USA medical system that I fear we will lose as the new governmental takeover of our healthcare rolls out. Here's this example of the VIP medical service we get in the USA, even those of us on Medicare with its lower payment schedule:
Monday my annual physical - doctor prescribes over night oximeter record
Wednesday equipment delivered into my hands
Thursday I have the unit packaged for a pick up by the testing company
The COPD service will read out my unit today and report today to my primary care doctor... all done in one "work week".
I believe my symptom and the prescription of testing for COPD is considered time critical, patient is at some risk of sudden complications, even death. This thinking (mine) may be what puts this test service on a "fast track", still, from what I read on this Community and in the general news this type of expedited service is not provided in many or (all?) the countries in which the government manages the delivery of health services. I believe the USA is on a path to diminished health care, a deep sadness to me for my children and all our citizens.
While my concern expressed to my PM Doctor was sleep apnea, the test service is about COPD, which is the test that was run, I now understand. I suppose if I stopped breathing for brief periods that too would show a sudden drops in % oxygen. I will ask my doctor about that.
An immediate concern to me was that I observed a O2 reading in the low 90% many times during my awake times. These did pass with the reading returning to 97% or more for most of the time. I could not associate the lower readings with any sense of suffocation, our difficulty breathing. As always I struggled with nasal congestion.
This experience is yet another experience I have with the wonderful USA medical system that I fear we will lose as the new governmental takeover of our healthcare rolls out. Here's this example of the VIP medical service we get in the USA, even those of us on Medicare with its lower payment schedule:
Monday my annual physical - doctor prescribes over night oximeter record
Wednesday equipment delivered into my hands
Thursday I have the unit packaged for a pick up by the testing company
The COPD service will read out my unit today and report today to my primary care doctor... all done in one "work week".
I believe my symptom and the prescription of testing for COPD is considered time critical, patient is at some risk of sudden complications, even death. This thinking (mine) may be what puts this test service on a "fast track", still, from what I read on this Community and in the general news this type of expedited service is not provided in many or (all?) the countries in which the government manages the delivery of health services. I believe the USA is on a path to diminished health care, a deep sadness to me for my children and all our citizens.
COMMUNITY LEADER
I discussed my use of my personal Oximeter with m Primary Care doctor today at my annual physical exam. I told him I measured a couple of reading in the very low 90s and evern 89% when I awake in the early morning hours.
I asked if he could prescribe a home Oximeter recording test for a mini-Sleep Study. He said, yes. I got a telephone call shortly after getting home from the testing service . They will bring the equipment to my home on Wednesday, check me out, and pick up the equipment the next day. They will forward the result to my doctor, I believe, immediately - assume by end of week.
I hope they don't fine me stopping breathing during sleep,wearing a CPAP mask to sleep in would be hard to adapt to. But I feel I have enough symptoms that I need to be checked, the doctor agreed.
I think Medicare/Insurance pays the major part of the cost, I will learn on that issue. I'd guess it can not be more than a few $ hundred at he most anyway. I suppose one could ask, my normal mode of operation, never order something before knowing what it costs, but in this case, as is true for most medical matters, I have to do it whatever it costs. One really can't shop around.
I asked if he could prescribe a home Oximeter recording test for a mini-Sleep Study. He said, yes. I got a telephone call shortly after getting home from the testing service . They will bring the equipment to my home on Wednesday, check me out, and pick up the equipment the next day. They will forward the result to my doctor, I believe, immediately - assume by end of week.
I hope they don't fine me stopping breathing during sleep,wearing a CPAP mask to sleep in would be hard to adapt to. But I feel I have enough symptoms that I need to be checked, the doctor agreed.
I think Medicare/Insurance pays the major part of the cost, I will learn on that issue. I'd guess it can not be more than a few $ hundred at he most anyway. I suppose one could ask, my normal mode of operation, never order something before knowing what it costs, but in this case, as is true for most medical matters, I have to do it whatever it costs. One really can't shop around.
COMMUNITY LEADER
My ongoing learning leads me to doubt the first reading displayed, I watch for at least two or three updates (a few seconds) before taking the reading of either HR or O2%. With this "Filter" I have not seen any O2% below the low 90s and usually 95% or above as should be the case.
The meter has been helpful in my watch on my BB change from Metoprolol to Atenolol, the subject of one or more other posts. It has also been nice to have in my shirt pocket when I get a dizzy spell, I can stop and make a quick check of HR and Oxygen. In most cases I see a lower than needed (apparently) HR to handle the activity change.
The meter has been helpful in my watch on my BB change from Metoprolol to Atenolol, the subject of one or more other posts. It has also been nice to have in my shirt pocket when I get a dizzy spell, I can stop and make a quick check of HR and Oxygen. In most cases I see a lower than needed (apparently) HR to handle the activity change.
COMMUNITY LEADER
A 24 hour recording device is available for about $100. Given my interesting and credible results with my real-time-only device I may invest.
The state of microelectronics, including inexpensive electronic memory, makes it very possible to make sophisticated electronics at low cost --- just look at your home computer. What we buy today, I am talking function/capacity not miniaturization, for $500 could not be purchased for less than $50,000 twenty years ago (1993).
Yes, the meter often comes up with an unlikely low reading for a cycle or two (not sure how long a cycle is, perhaps 5-10 seconds). I have seen 2 AM readings of a HR in the 60s, very low for me that move into the 70s when watched for several cycles.
I don't recall clearly when I got the 89% O2 reading but it wasn't at the end of my watch period. I watched for a minute or two and the O2 came up closer to 95% average.
I always sleep on my side, and when I wake I can say what side I had been sleeping on as the other side of my sinus will be stopped... roll over and the stop shifts sides. So whatever is causing the swelling is liquid based and moves to the low energy side prescribed by gravity. It is this sinus stoppage that gives me the suffocating feeling, not a stop of breathing altogether. My wife has trouble sleeping and she said she has never noticed me not breathing when she is awake. Then too, I sometimes wake her with snoring, another sign of Apnea, but I go months without snoring or at least without her hearing it.
I'll talk with my GP later this month.
The state of microelectronics, including inexpensive electronic memory, makes it very possible to make sophisticated electronics at low cost --- just look at your home computer. What we buy today, I am talking function/capacity not miniaturization, for $500 could not be purchased for less than $50,000 twenty years ago (1993).
Yes, the meter often comes up with an unlikely low reading for a cycle or two (not sure how long a cycle is, perhaps 5-10 seconds). I have seen 2 AM readings of a HR in the 60s, very low for me that move into the 70s when watched for several cycles.
I don't recall clearly when I got the 89% O2 reading but it wasn't at the end of my watch period. I watched for a minute or two and the O2 came up closer to 95% average.
I always sleep on my side, and when I wake I can say what side I had been sleeping on as the other side of my sinus will be stopped... roll over and the stop shifts sides. So whatever is causing the swelling is liquid based and moves to the low energy side prescribed by gravity. It is this sinus stoppage that gives me the suffocating feeling, not a stop of breathing altogether. My wife has trouble sleeping and she said she has never noticed me not breathing when she is awake. Then too, I sometimes wake her with snoring, another sign of Apnea, but I go months without snoring or at least without her hearing it.
I'll talk with my GP later this month.
You may have sleep apnea. My pulmonologist has said that sleep apnea may predispose atrial fibrillation. In 2010 I had sleep polygraphy - fortunately I did not have sleep apnea.
I think that over 90% is considered normal, or sometimes over 95. I spent only 5 minutes between 90 and 95%, and no minutes under 90. Mean SpO2 was 96.7, median 97.
Sometimes, when I am falling asleep I wake up and take a deep breath. I think that my heart rate falls to fairly low and therefore I feel shortage of breath. Or it may be caused by some panic.
Has anybody noticed that you have sleep apnea? My husband probably had it 20 years ago, He has rarely also nowadays some short periods of apnea. But he does not fulfill the criteria for real disease. He is using a tennis ball in a pocket on the backside of his pyjamas shirt to hinder sleeping on his back. It is working well.
Have you noticed that sometimes, when you put the oximeter on your finger, it first gives a lower reading? It may result from the device. The error time is, however, very short. Your nighttime readings may be true.
You are doing very interesting experiments with your device. I love my pulse oxymeter - I call it as my tamagochi. A sleep polygraphy, if you could get such a holtering, would be monitoring your heart rate and oxygen saturation all the night.
I think that over 90% is considered normal, or sometimes over 95. I spent only 5 minutes between 90 and 95%, and no minutes under 90. Mean SpO2 was 96.7, median 97.
Sometimes, when I am falling asleep I wake up and take a deep breath. I think that my heart rate falls to fairly low and therefore I feel shortage of breath. Or it may be caused by some panic.
Has anybody noticed that you have sleep apnea? My husband probably had it 20 years ago, He has rarely also nowadays some short periods of apnea. But he does not fulfill the criteria for real disease. He is using a tennis ball in a pocket on the backside of his pyjamas shirt to hinder sleeping on his back. It is working well.
Have you noticed that sometimes, when you put the oximeter on your finger, it first gives a lower reading? It may result from the device. The error time is, however, very short. Your nighttime readings may be true.
You are doing very interesting experiments with your device. I love my pulse oxymeter - I call it as my tamagochi. A sleep polygraphy, if you could get such a holtering, would be monitoring your heart rate and oxygen saturation all the night.
COMMUNITY LEADER
I am working on health issue that may or may not be related but one of the main reasons I purchased the Oximeter was to see if I could get any hard data suggesting I press for a sleep study - apnea. This comes more from my nasal congestion battle than from my AFig condition. I do wake up at night with some congestion panic, and wonder is my blood oxygen low.
Last night I had a bout of the waking in the early hours of the morning and feeling short of breath, or even suffocation. I immediately took a deep breath through my mouth and realized I had some "dry mouth" feeling so I know I was breathing through my mouth while asleep. I also checked and determined my left nostril was clear, only the right one was plugged. Checking the Oximeter I found my pulst in the low 70s (good) and the O2 was in the low 90s, even saw one 89%... then it started to increase into the 95% or higher range.
My data is subject to device and application error and my memory, I didn't write anything down.
Does a O2 of 89%, even if rare, when just sleeping, just woke up, something to be concerned about, perhaps the O2 saturation can be lower when in a deep rest state - the HR goes to its lowest point at that time.
Last night I had a bout of the waking in the early hours of the morning and feeling short of breath, or even suffocation. I immediately took a deep breath through my mouth and realized I had some "dry mouth" feeling so I know I was breathing through my mouth while asleep. I also checked and determined my left nostril was clear, only the right one was plugged. Checking the Oximeter I found my pulst in the low 70s (good) and the O2 was in the low 90s, even saw one 89%... then it started to increase into the 95% or higher range.
My data is subject to device and application error and my memory, I didn't write anything down.
Does a O2 of 89%, even if rare, when just sleeping, just woke up, something to be concerned about, perhaps the O2 saturation can be lower when in a deep rest state - the HR goes to its lowest point at that time.
Although I am using atenolol (Tenoblock 75 + 25 mg per day), I can hit the other margin of the screen during some time of the day. I have got accustomed to atenolol, because of using it since the eighties.
Nail varnish or othervise coloured or very thick nails may cause error.
Because it was thought that I could have exceptional hemoglobin (which I don't have), I read about hemoglobins in the internet. Some hemoglobin variants can bind oxygen very firmly and do not give it easily to tissues. Such hemoglobins may give false information about the state of oxygenation of the tissues, although the Hb's O2 saturation is good. But the percent of an exceptional variant may be low among the normal variant, so it may not cause a bad error (I don't know). Some people can also have higher amounts of methemoglobin. Its colour is different from the normal hemoglobin, and therefore it might cause error.
Nail varnish or othervise coloured or very thick nails may cause error.
Because it was thought that I could have exceptional hemoglobin (which I don't have), I read about hemoglobins in the internet. Some hemoglobin variants can bind oxygen very firmly and do not give it easily to tissues. Such hemoglobins may give false information about the state of oxygenation of the tissues, although the Hb's O2 saturation is good. But the percent of an exceptional variant may be low among the normal variant, so it may not cause a bad error (I don't know). Some people can also have higher amounts of methemoglobin. Its colour is different from the normal hemoglobin, and therefore it might cause error.
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