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[Taz2]

I'm just listening to this programme now about the importance of being able to check your oxygen levels if you have Covid-19 as your levels can drop dangerously low without any breathlessness. The advice is that it is good to have an oximeter at home, much like we have a thermometer, and I've been wondering about this for a while so I've ordered one especially as over 65 is the age when it is advised! Anyone else? https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/live:bbc_radio_fourfm

Taz x

[jillydoll]

Yes Taz, we got one for OH when he came out of hospital.
His oxygen levels were only 88/89 % when he came out of hospital, but because he was managing, they let him come home.
When our GP rang to see how he was getting on, she asked about his levels, and when told they were that low, she panicked, but when she found out the hospital knew about it and said to keep monitoring it, she said fine, with levels like that, she said, I’d be calling for an ambulance.
It was good because day after day, you could see his oxygen levels slowly getting better. Until they reached high 90s. Then he stopped using it.
I’d recommend all people have one, just like they have blood pressure monitors. xx

[Taz2]

After listening to the programme I agree. I hope your OH has recovered now. It's a small margin between being ok and being in an emergency situation it seems. Over 95% ok and under 92% phone for help!

I know so many people with it/have had it now.

Taz x

[CLKD]

I heard something on the News last night  but couldn't understand what the GP was trying to explain regarding the levels.  We have a thermometer - somewhere 

[Taz2]

When the pandemic first hit there was not much understanding of how some patients could die so quickly without becoming breathless but they know more now. If you have Covid then it is wise to check your levels throughout the day to make sure that your levels are not becoming lower without you experiencing any symptoms. More patients are being admitted to hospital early on and avoiding intensive care as their levels have not dipped too far before calling for help. It's explained in the programme.

Taz x 

[CLKD]

 

[jillydoll]

Thanx Taz. 👍

[Taz2]

I received the oximeter today and have heard the importance of them mentioned throughout the day on news bulletins. A friend who is 66 and has Covid has just been given one by her surgery. She has to record levels three times a day and send them in to her GP so that early deterioration can be detected.

Taz x

[carina]

Thanks for the information Taz.

I think I had Covid back in April, it was never confirmed but I had all the symptoms.
When I spoke to 111 they said it probably was Covid.
Was quite ill for almost a week and then picked up.
But it seems to have left me with a bad chest, with wheezing and breathlessness.

I have ordered a meter today....will be interesting to check my readings.

[Taz2]

It seems to have left a lot of people like that carina. I'm glad it was helpful. I hope you soon feel better.

Taz x 

[CLKD]

DH looked up oximeters on line yesterday, there are many to choose from.

[Taz2]

The one used by St John Ambulance is recommended. Available from Boots.

Taz x

[shrosphirelass]

Thanks Taz, will look in to it.

[Ju Ju]

My son, a paramedic, got me one after I had pneumonia with asthma complications. I find having one has been reassuring for with asthma as things are rarely as bad as I think they are. Good indication for any breathing problems.

[CLKD]

Not many are medically approved, DH has been searching the net.  The £20.00 variations aren't reliable so he has ordered one costing about £40.00 - which is medically approved.

Many are made in China this 1 is made in Germany.  Hopefully it will come with instructions, apparently it is measured through the nail.  But how?  I'm not aware of releasing oxygen via my nails ............