Is Low Oxygen Level a Cause for Concern?
Hello everyone, I'm a 23-year-old female, standing at 5'5" and weighing 81 kg. I’m currently prescribed 150mg of sertraline for managing anxiety and depression, along with 30mg of Elvanse for my ADHD. Recently, while reviewing my health data collected from my Apple Watch, I found that my blood oxygen saturation was recorded at 89% on the morning of January 30th, with my heart rate at 104 beats per minute. Typically, my oxygen levels hover between 97% and 100%, and in a relaxed state, my heart rate tends to be around 80 to 95 bpm. During the time I registered these troubling stats, I was seated in a car with a friend who was driving us to a shopping trip. I distinctly recall feeling extremely breathless, dizzy, shaky, and somewhat nauseous. Initially, I attributed these sensations to a panic attack, as this is not an unfamiliar experience for me. However, seeing such a low reading for my oxygen level has left me feeling quite anxious. Should this be a cause for concern? Over the past nine years, I’ve consulted with doctors regarding various heart-related symptoms, such as palpitations and chest pains, only to be reassured that they were likely just related to anxiety. I underwent a 24-hour ECG about two years ago, but the results were unremarkable, as I didn't experience any notable incidents while it was being monitored. Could this situation be indicative of an underlying heart condition? How can I effectively communicate my concerns to my physicians if I feel this is something that warrants further discussion?
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 10:50:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a recorded oxygen level of 89%, especially given your experiences of breathlessness, dizziness, and anxiety. Let’s break this down and focus on the key points:
Main Points
- A blood oxygen saturation level of 89% is lower than the normal range, which typically is between 95% and 100%.
- Your symptoms could be related to anxiety but are worth discussing further, especially given your history of heart-related concerns.
Explanation
Low oxygen levels can occur for various reasons including anxiety, respiratory issues, or even certain heart conditions. Since you mentioned that you're dealing with anxiety, it's possible that your breathlessness and dizziness may be linked to anxiety-related panic attacks, particularly during stressful situations like being in a car. However, persistent low oxygen readings warrant attention, as they could indicate an underlying health concern that needs to be explored further.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of any episodes where you notice low oxygen levels, documenting the circumstances, your heart rate, and any accompanying symptoms. This information will be valuable for your doctor.
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Recheck Your Oxygen Levels:
- Continue to monitor your blood oxygen levels using your Apple Watch or a pulse oximeter, especially during moments when you feel unwell. Note the time of day and your activities leading to these readings.
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Communicate with Your Doctor:
- When discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider, clearly explain your symptoms, your recent low oxygen reading, and the circumstances surrounding it. Mention your history of anxiety and any pattern you recognize with your symptoms. This will help your doctor understand the urgency and context of your health concerns.
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Plan for Follow-Up Testing:
- Ask if further testing might be indicated, such as a pulmonary function test or a repeat ECG, to help rule out respiratory or cardiac issues.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Try to reduce anxiety triggers when possible. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or gentle walks can help manage anxiety and may improve how you feel overall.
Reassure yourself that tracking your symptoms and seeking clarification from your healthcare team is the right approach. It’s crucial to take your symptoms seriously while understanding that anxiety can play a significant role in physical sensations. You're taking positive steps by seeking information and preparing for a constructive conversation with your doctor!
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