What is an Oximeter?
An oximeter, also known as a pulse oximeter, is a non-invasive medical device designed to measure oxygen saturation level and heart rate. It operates based on the spectrophotometry principle, which involves measuring light absorption at specific wavelengths.
The device typically consists of a small clip or probe placed on a person's fingertip, toe, or earlobe. Inside the clip, there are LEDs that emit two distinct wavelengths of light, usually red and infrared. A photodetector on the other side of the clip measures the amount of light that passes through the blood vessels. The oximeter then calculates the oxygen saturation level (SpO2) and heart rate based on the differences in light absorption between oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin in the blood.
The oxygen saturation level is an indicator of how effectively oxygen is being transported to the body's tissues and organs. Healthy individuals typically have a SpO2 level of 95% or higher. Values below 90% may indicate a potential oxygenation problem that requires immediate attention.
Pulse rate measurement is used to assess an individual’s cardiovascular health, especially during physical activity or periods of stress. For more information on oximeter readings, please refer to the table below.
Importance of Having an Oximeter
Bion Finger Pulse Oximeter P100 can help you to monitor your oxygen saturation levels and heart rate, allowing you to detect respiratory problems such as asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia. Individuals with respiratory conditions are suggested to monitor their oxygen saturation levels regularly to identify any sudden drops that might require medical attention.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the importance of oximeters as many infected individuals experienced "silent hypoxia," where their oxygen levels dropped without apparent symptoms. Regular monitoring with an oximeter can help identify these cases early, allowing for timely medical intervention and potentially saving lives.
Oximeters also provide a quick and easy way to gauge overall health. Changes in oxygen saturation and heart rate patterns can indicate underlying health issues or the effectiveness of ongoing treatments. Bion Finger Pulse Oximeter P100 will help you to take proactive measures in safeguarding your health.
The Bottom Line
Whether you have a pre-existing respiratory condition or want to stay vigilant during health crises like COVID-19, having an oximeter readily available can offer peace of mind and, in some cases, even save lives. As technology advances and healthcare becomes more accessible, the oximeter is poised to remain an indispensable tool for people of all ages in pursuing a healthier and safer life.
