Most Nigerians have never heard of a pulse oximeter before. But after the COVID-19 pandemic this small but powerful device became one of the most important health tools in homes around the world. In this post we are going to explain exactly what a pulse oximeter is, why it is so important, and why every Nigerian home should have one.
What is a Pulse Oximeter?
A pulse oximeter is a small clip-like device that you place on your fingertip. Within seconds it gives you two critical pieces of health information — your blood oxygen saturation level, which is also called SpO2, and your heart rate or pulse. It works by shining a small beam of light through your finger and measuring how much oxygen is being carried in your red blood cells. The whole process is completely painless and non-invasive.
What is a Normal Oxygen Level?
A normal blood oxygen level is between 95 and 100 percent. A reading between 90 and 94 percent is considered low and means your body is not getting enough oxygen. A reading below 90 percent is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Your heart rate should normally be between 60 and 100 beats per minute at rest.
Why Does Your Oxygen Level Matter?
Your blood oxygen level is one of the most important indicators of your overall health. When your oxygen level drops it means your lungs are not working efficiently or your heart is not pumping blood properly. Low oxygen levels can be caused by respiratory infections like pneumonia and COVID-19, asthma attacks, heart conditions, anemia, and altitude sickness. The dangerous thing about low oxygen levels is that you can feel relatively fine while your oxygen is dangerously low — this is why the pulse oximeter became so critical during COVID-19 when patients were experiencing what doctors called silent hypoxia.
Who Needs a Pulse Oximeter at Home?
Everyone can benefit from having a pulse oximeter at home, but it is especially important for people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, people with heart disease or high blood pressure, elderly people, people recovering from illness or surgery, people who live at high altitude, and anyone who wants to monitor their health proactively.
How to Use a Pulse Oximeter Correctly
Using a pulse oximeter is extremely simple. Make sure your hands are warm — cold fingers can affect the reading. Remove any nail polish from the finger you are using as dark polish can interfere with the light sensor. Clip the device onto your index or middle finger and press the button. Stay still and relaxed for about 10 seconds while the device takes its reading. Your SpO2 percentage and pulse rate will appear on the screen. A reading of 95 percent or above is normal. If your reading is consistently below 95 percent consult your doctor.
The VitalCorex Fingertip Pulse Oximeter
The VitalCorex Fingertip Pulse Oximeter is compact, lightweight, and incredibly easy to use. It displays your SpO2 and heart rate clearly on a bright screen and gives you accurate results in seconds. It is small enough to fit in your pocket or handbag so you can monitor your oxygen levels anywhere at any time. Order yours today from VitalCorex Store and make sure your family always has this life-saving device within reach.