Hypoxia and Medicine

toddlers oxygen level 83?

Hi my cousin is 17 months and she has been put on a saturation monitor to test her oxygen levels. My aunty was given the machine to take home and they will review it tomorrow, she has always had problems with her lungs and has to take thickener in all her liquids. Tonight her oxygen level was 87 and when she coughed it went to 83. She is sleeping at the minute. should this be a cause of concern or will she be ok for the doctors to review it in the morning. Any advice would be great, Thanks

Public Comments

1. I would contact the doctor's office and let them make a determination as to whether she is ok or not. 83 is pretty low.
2. This oxygen saturation levels are a cause for concern, yes. This is not normal. It should be in the high 90's if not 100%. However, it's not a fatal situation, but will tell the doctor's that there is something to look for. If she has lung issues, it could likely have to do with that, that her lungs are not drawing in enough oxygen to her body. Often it is a heart related issue, but again, these things can often be fixed, so don't stress too much. Having the levels that low for a very long time would be a problem, but at this very second, it's not critical, however, I'd call the doctors now unless they gave you a particular number to watch for (ie if it drops below 80%, call us). I remember 80% being an important range when my son was in the NICU with heart issues.
3. When my 17 month old had bronchiolitis her sats went to 88 and they had her on oxygen until she stabilised at 92%. They prefer over 95 but at least over 90. I would advise she calls the hospital and asks them if she needs to come in or at least double check. Sophie