The Best Portable Pulse Oximeter

Don't waste your money! If you need an oximeter, make sure you buy one that will actually serve you well. Now if you have money to throw around, and your health is not fragile, then a small finger unit maybe all that you need. Just remember that the type of oximeter that is completely contained on one finger may not be accurate if you have compromised circulation.

If you have advanced lung or heart disease, you can be sure that your circulation is compromised. When there is not enough oxygen in your blood, your body reduces blood flow to your extremities in an effort to protect your major organs. If your hands are frequently cold you may not get a reliable reading as well. The best idea is to bring your oximeter with you when you go to the doctor and compare the reading to your doctors oximeter. That is, if your doctor has a better quality pulse oximter. If you find that you are not getting an accurate reading, you may get better results with a higher end model. The better oximeters will have a probe that grips your finger (or ear) a little bit tighter. The most reliable reading will be obtained by using an ear probe. Your body is never stingy with oxygen and blood flow to your head!

Another thing to consider is durability. If the finger probe on a pulse oximeter is not durable, your unit will not last long. If you use it often, or travel with it, you may be throwing away money on a cheaper model.

Also keep in mind that as your disease process progresses, the accuracy of the reading becomes more important. Harmfully low blood oxygen levels (below 92%)usually occur first with activity. When this health robbing condition begins, it will quickly weaken the heart muscle. You may not see low oxygen levels (hypoxia) while the patient is at rest until the heart muscle has been harmed. Please be aware of that, and monitor yourself or your loved one carefully to assure you are using supplementing oxygen just as soon as the need arises. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) should not be ignored. Protect your quality of life.

One last thought, if you are on home oxygen, and your budget does not allow plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, purhaps the cost of a pulse oximeter is not waranted. If you spend that money on fresh food, you may get more benefit for your buck. If your lips tend to get blue at any point during your day, use your low flow oxygen 24/7. You don't need an oximeter to tell you that. If your budget allows you all the fresh food you want, however, an oximeter could be a very valuable tool.

Just remember, the purpose of having your own personal oximeter is to more closely monitor your oxygen need. If you are using it to reduce the amount of time you supplement your oxygen, it could be more harmful than helpful.

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