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What is “normal” SPO2 %oxygen at higher altitude
Posted by dogbreath on January 20, 2025 at 2:47 pmI’ve been recently diagnosed with IPF. I currently am not on O2 and do not have any symptoms. I live at 7400ft and my SPO2 routinely hits 94% for short periods. On this and other forums it seems that 94% is a trigger for getting oxygen. I am not short of breath and don’t feel any ill effects. I am wondering if I should be concerned or if there may be a “normal” range when living at higher altitude that is different from those living at sea level? Is there a lower % that I should be looking at as a trigger for concern rather than 94%? Thanks…
Carl Stidsen replied 1 week, 2 days ago 7 Members · 6 Replies -
6 Replies
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I live at 5,300 ft and was diagnosed with IPF over 5 years ago. I’ve used oxygen for the last 4 years only at night for sleeping. An oxygen level of 94 is nothing to worry about especially living at the altitude that you do. My oxygen levels have gone below 88 briefly when I exert myself like walking up a hill. Normally, when I take my daily 1 mile walk my oxygen levels will fluctuate between 92-95. Pulmonologist’s usually don’t get concerned until your oxygen level reaches approximately below 90 fairly consistently. I’m not a doctor but based on my research you’re in pretty good shape. If you still have concerns you should see a good pulmonologist and they can give you a PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) and do a six minute walk test while monitoring your oxygen. That will give you a good indication about how your lungs are functioning.
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I live part time at 5500′ and need O2 overnight and when walking uphill. Only drops into 80’s but I want to keep it 94+. Low O2 is not good for brains or hearts.
I live part time at 1200′ and need no supplemental O2 there.
It is a good idea to have your overnight need assessed as you would likely never be aware of the need without monitoring it. Your Dr orders the overnight pulse oximetry test. It’s easy to do. I found it easy to use the overnight compressor. It’s just a little noisy so I have it in a room across a hall with 2 closed doors between us.
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I agree with what the replies have stated so far. 88% is generally considered the threshold for supplemental oxygen.
Here at PF News, we have a page on supplemental oxygen at this link: https://pulmonaryfibrosisnews.com/oxygen-therapy-for-pulmonary-fibrosis/
The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation publication on supplemental oxygen is a great resource. https://www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org/docs/default-source/programs/educational-materials/quick-start-guide-for-supplemental-oxygen/quick-start-guide-for-supplemental-oxygen-english.pdf?sfvrsn=b9694a62_17
Sam…
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I have IPF and found out my O2 sat dropped to the mid-80s at 6500 while on a vacation in the mountains here in California. My pulmonologist ordered a High Altitude Simulation Test which proved I needed oxygen when flying or at high altitudes. This lead to my getting a Treadmill Oximeter Stress Test which showed I needed O2 with exercise. I normally have few symptoms and lead a fairly active life with exercise. A 6-minute walk test would always be normal – my sats only drop with exertion. Since you live at a high altitude, your body likely has long adjusted to this with increased red blood cells, etc. This is something you should pursue with your pulmonologist. If you haven’t already, I suggest getting a good oximeter that can properly measure your SpO2 with activity – like with the Masimo MightySat.
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Define “High Altitude”. I’m a flatlander , living on the East Coast . My Home is 500 feet above sea level . . My O2 levels start dropping at 3500 feet above ground level (AGL) , and lately airline flights (Cabin Altitude – 8,000 feet) have become difficult , even with the setting on 3 or 4 LPM. Count yourself lucky . When your numbers start to fall , you can move to progressively lower altitudes and put off the effects of IPF that much longer.
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