Concern Over Low Oxygen Levels in My Mother-in-Law
Hello everyone. My mother-in-law, aged 60, is currently battling stage 4 lung cancer. She’s undergoing treatment with immunotherapy and relies on an oxygen machine that she uses nearly all the time. Despite her condition, she is very self-sufficient and prefers to manage tasks herself, including making her own breakfast. However, I observed something alarming: after she finished preparing her meal and sat down, I noticed that the oximeter reading displayed a blood oxygen level of just 68. After a few minutes of sitting and having breakfast, her levels improved to around 90 to 91, but her heart rate was elevated at 120 beats per minute while resting. Should I be concerned enough to take her to the hospital immediately? She is quite hesitant about reaching out to her medical team, and her next appointment is scheduled for Monday when she is set to receive further immunotherapy. I’m at a loss about whether to urge her to go to the hospital now or if she can wait until the weekend is over. She claims she feels fine and is currently relaxed and reading, yet I can’t shake the worry that she might be experiencing an adverse reaction to the treatment, or that her lung function might be worsening. I truly appreciate any guidance or advice you can provide on this matter.
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 10:02:17 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel a deep concern for your mother-in-law's wellbeing given her condition and the concerning oxygen levels you observed. Low oxygen saturation levels—especially below 90%—can signify a potential issue, and since she has a history of lung cancer and is using supplemental oxygen, it's important to monitor this closely.
Main Points:
- A blood oxygen level of 68% is significantly low and can be dangerous.
- Her elevated heart rate and previous low oxygen levels warrant immediate attention.
- While she may feel fine now, her symptoms suggest that medical evaluation is needed promptly.
Explanation: Oxygen saturation levels below 90% indicate hypoxemia, which means her body may not be getting enough oxygen. This can lead to various complications, including strain on the heart, especially if her resting heart rate is elevated to 120 beats per minute—this is considered elevated for her at rest. Even if she currently feels fine, fluctuations in her oxygen levels can indicate underlying issues that require medical attention.
Next Steps:
- Urgently Check Oxygen Levels: If possible, check her oxygen levels again immediately. If they are below 90%, this is an urgent sign.
- Assess Symptoms: Besides the low oxygen reading, ask her if she has any new symptoms such as increased shortness of breath, chest discomfort, confusion, or any other alarming signs.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care: Given the combination of low oxygen saturation, an elevated heart rate, and her cancer diagnosis, it’s advisable to take her to the hospital or an urgent care facility immediately. Do not wait until the appointment on Monday. Her safety and wellbeing are the top priority.
- Communicate with Her Medical Team: If she is hesitant about seeking care, gently encourage her to contact her medical team or go to the emergency department. It’s better to be safe and get a thorough evaluation as they will have the resources to assess and adjust her care plan as needed.
Your attentiveness to her condition is vital, and taking action now can help prevent more serious issues. Please keep monitoring her closely during this time.
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