12/05/2021
https://amzn.to/3o2Pjxq
Dr. Connolly: The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 enters the body through the respiratory system, causing direct injury to a person's lungs via inflammation and pneumonia — both of which can negatively impact how well oxygen is transferred into the bloodstream. This oxygen impairment can occur at multiple stages of COVID-19, and not simply for critically ill patients placed on ventilators.
In fact, there's a phenomenon we've observed clinically where a person with COVID-19 can have very low oxygen levels but otherwise appear well, termed "happy hypoxia." It's concerning because these patients may be more significantly ill than they feel, certainly warranting closer attention in a medical setting.
It's why you may be wondering if an oximeter can help detect COVID-19 early.
However, not everyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will develop low oxygen levels. There are people who may have a very uncomfortable bout with fever, muscle aches and GI upset at home, but never demonstrate low oxygen levels.
Ultimately, people should not think of a pulse oximeter as a screening test for COVID-19. Having a normal oxygen level does not mean that you are free of infection. If you are concerned regarding exposure, formal testing is still required.
Q: So, can a pulse oximeter be a helpful tool for monitoring COVID-19 at home?
Dr. Connolly: If a person has a mild case of COVID-19 and is self-treating at home, an oximeter can be a helpful tool for checking oxygen levels so that low oxygen levels can be caught early. In general, the people who are theoretically more at risk for oxygen issues are those with pre-existing lung disease, heart disease and/or obesity, as well as active smokers.
In addition, since "happy hypoxia" can be present in people who might otherwise be regarded as asymptomatic, a pulse oximeter can help ensure that this clinically silent early warning sign is not missed.
If you have tested posit
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