Ask a doctor on the topic of Internal medicine

SPO2 at rest low, increases during exertion.

July 8, 2016 | 16,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med Ralf von Seckendorff

Hello,
Here is a short question from an asthmatic regarding SPO2 levels:

at rest (sitting/lying down): 92-93%
during normal and strong exertion: 95-97%
(in both cases without being out of breath)

I would have expected it to be the other way around.
How can this result be explained? Is it unhealthy?

Dr. med Ralf von Seckendorff

Hello,

both values are normal and your description does not give any cause for concern. It may be that you breathe faster and deeper during normal and stronger exertion.

Kind regards