The Basics: SpO2
Advanced health monitoring features, such as SpO2 measurement, can transform the way we track our fitness progress.
What is SpO2?
SpO2, or peripheral capillary oxygen saturation, is a measure of the oxygen saturation level in your blood. It is typically expressed as a percentage and represents the amount of oxygen that hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells, carries. An SpO2 reading of 100% means your blood is fully saturated with oxygen, while lower readings indicate lower oxygen levels. It is important to note that Bevel displays an average of the SpO2 readings taken throughout the day, rather than the latest reading.
Why SpO2 matters
Health Status Indicator: SpO2 is a crucial health indicator that provides valuable insights into your overall health. A healthy individual usually maintains an SpO2 level between 95% and 100%. If your SpO2 levels consistently fall below this range, it could be an early sign of respiratory or cardiovascular issues.
Fitness Performance: During exercise, your body demands more oxygen to meet increased energy requirements. Monitoring your SpO2 levels can help you gauge your body's ability to supply oxygen to muscles efficiently. A declining SpO2 reading during a workout might suggest that your cardiovascular system needs improvement, motivating you to work on your endurance and stamina.
Altitude Training: For those who enjoy high-altitude workouts, such as hiking or mountaineering, SpO2 is a valuable metric. At higher altitudes, the air contains less oxygen, which can lead to decreased SpO2 levels. With Bevel, you can track these fluctuations and adjust your training to improve your body's adaptation to low oxygen environments.
What can decrease your SpO2?
While it's helpful to monitor your SpO2 levels, it's equally important to understand what factors can cause a decrease in your SpO2 readings. By being aware of these influences, you can take steps to mitigate them and maintain healthier oxygen saturation levels:
Physical Activity: Intense physical exertion, especially at high altitudes, can lead to a temporary drop in SpO2 levels. Monitoring your SpO2 during exercise can help you tailor your workouts to minimize these drops.
Infection or Illness: Infections, illnesses, and even the common cold can temporarily reduce SpO2 levels. Monitoring your SpO2 during these times can help you gauge the severity of your condition and determine if medical attention is needed.
Dehydration: Dehydration can lead to thicker blood, making it harder for oxygen to be transported efficiently. Ensure you stay adequately hydrated, especially during physical activity.
Smoking: Smoking is a major contributor to lower SpO2 levels. The carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke can bind to hemoglobin, reducing its ability to carry oxygen. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your SpO2 readings and overall health.
High Altitude: As mentioned earlier, higher altitudes have lower oxygen levels in the air, which can lead to decreased SpO2. Bevel can be particularly useful for tracking your response to altitude changes and adapting to these conditions.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including anemia, heart problems, and lung diseases, can influence SpO2 levels. Managing these conditions with the guidance of a healthcare provider is crucial for maintaining healthy oxygen saturation.
Remember that while SpO2 monitoring is a useful tool, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for any concerns about your SpO2 levels.
