A pulse oximeter, also known as a pulse oximeter, is a medical instrument used to measure oxygen saturation in the blood. It is a useful tool to determine whether someone is getting enough oxygen. The device is usually placed on the fingertip and gives a measurement of the oxygen level in the blood, expressed as a percentage.

When should I measure my saturation?

For breathing problems: If you have shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, measuring your saturation can help determine whether you are getting enough oxygen. In sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing temporarily stops during sleep. Measuring saturation can help determine whether breathing is affected during sleep. With altitude sickness: Altitude sickness can occur when you are at a high altitude and your body does not get enough oxygen. Measuring saturation can help determine whether you have altitude sickness and whether you need medical attention. For heart and lung disease: If you have heart or lung disease, measuring your saturation can help determine whether your treatment is effective and whether you are getting enough oxygen. With COVID-19: COVID-19 can lead to breathing problems and decreased saturation. Measuring saturation can help determine whether you may have COVID-19 and whether you need medical attention.