Red blood cells are in charge of carrying the oxygen around the body. The cells collect the oxygen from your lungs and bring it to all parts of your body. If you experience a low oxygen level, you will require some medical treatment as this will prevent you from doing your everyday activities and also pose some serious health risks. Doctors use tests to check the oxygen levels in your body. Read on to learn more about what is the normal oxygen level in older adults.
What Is the Normal Oxygen Level for the Elderly?
The normal oxygen saturation level is from 97 to 100%. Older adults usually have lower levels of oxygen levels as compared to younger adults. If a person is older than 70, a normal oxygen level could be around 95% instead. In the worst cases, low oxygen levels can lead to hypoxia or hypoxemia. If you have any symptoms, do contact your doctor or head to the hospital for treatment immediately.
Causes of Low Oxygen
Here are some examples of what could cause hypoxia:
- Anemia
- Heart problems
- Cyanide poisoning
- High altitude
- Severe asthma attack
- Lung damage
- Pain medications with side effects
- Lung diseases
- Sleep apnea
Now that you know some of the potential causes of low oxygen levels in the body, we can take a look at some symptoms that present in older adults that may be a sign of low oxygen.
Signs of Low Oxygen Levels
Low oxygen levels can lead to many symptoms. Here are some signs of low oxygen:
- Chest pain
- Changes in skin color
- Dizziness
- Cough
- Slow or fast heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Headache
- Lack of coordination
- Restlessness
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Wheezing
If you face a rapid heart rate or severe shortness of breath along with any other symptoms listed above, make sure to speak to your doctor straight away to receive the medical attention you need.
Treatments for Low Oxygen Levels
Now we know about the signs of low oxygen levels, we have to know how to treat them as well. There are some devices that can help you receive additional oxygen. However, many of them are considered medication and you will need a prescription for them. There are other measures one can use to alleviate symptoms of low oxygen levels in the body. Here are some of the methods you can try:
- Drink plenty of water
- Deep breathing exercises
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits
- Regular blood oxygen level
- Quit smoking and avoid getting second-hand smoke
Experience Senior Living At Lakeside At Mallard Landing
Lakeside At Mallard Landing is a retirement community designed for our residents. We aim to provide all residents with quality service and care. Here, we provide you with a wide range of fantastic amenities. Enjoy delicious and nutritious meals in our beautiful dining room. Come take part in the many fun activities that we have planned. Our professional team is here to meet your needs. Feel free to contact us for more information!
