10 Effective Ways to Increase Oxygen Levels in the Body

Do you remember the critical times of COVID-19 that most witnessed the need for oxygen? 

The massive oxygen supply during the Covid times unfortunately led to a shortage of oxygen, resulting in a death rate that could not be evaluated.

Oxygen is essential to life, allowing your body’s organs to function properly. Your blood oxygen level is the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood, which is called oxygen saturation. 

When you breathe fresh air into your lungs, red blood cells pick up and carry oxygen. This nourishes tissues and allows energy production, or cellular respiration, to occur.

Oxygen levels can weaken as people age, followed by narrow blood vessels that prevent oxygen from binding to hemoglobin in the red blood cells. 

You are in luck if you have been looking for a guide on increasing blood oxygen levels. Today’s blog focuses on naturally increasing oxygen levels in the body.  

At Redcliffe Labs, we aim to defy limitations—getting older means preserving the brake on your life. With the right resources and improving blood oxygen levels, you can add more years to your life and live confidently. 

Understanding Blood Oxygen Levels

Blood oxygen level, or blood oxygen saturation, indicates the amount of oxygen in your blood. A healthcare provider will likely suggest pulse oximetry and a blood draw test to determine your blood oxygen level. 

Pulse Oximetry

The normal oxygen levels on an oximeter are between 95 % and 100%. The pulse oximeter is a small device you can use on your finger. It helps determine the percentage of oxygen in red blood cells. 

Additionally, it is a simple, non-invasive method and doesn’t cause pain. 

Low oxygen levels are hypoxemia, with 90% and 92% readings. A reading below 90% indicates immediate medical assistance. 

Also read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/heart/50-of-indians-are-at-risk-of-a-heart-condition-lets-know-more/

6 Chronic Conditions That Can Reduce the Oxygen Level

A lower-than-normal oxygen level is called hypoxemia. Low blood oxygen levels can occur due to: 

• Asthma: It is a chronic lung disease caused by inflammation and muscle tightening around the airways. 
• Emphysema: It is also a lung disease that causes shortness of breath. 
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disease detected in your lungs, making breathing hard. It gradually gets worse with time. 
• Heart conditions such as congestive heart failure or weaker heart muscles. 

1. High altitude locations
2. Pulmonary fibrosis (scarring and thickening of the lung tissue.) 

Emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma-COPD overlap syndrome are examples of COPD. Common causes of COPD include: 

• Marijuana smoke
• Secondhand smoke
• Air pollution
• Chemical fumes
• Dust 
• Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, or AAT, is a genetic disorder that can cause emphysema. 

Blood Draw Test

A blood draw test to check oxygen levels is often part of a larger test called arterial blood gas (ABG). 

What can you expect?

During an arterial blood gas test, the expert (respiratory therapist) takes a blood sample from one of the arteries inside your wrist, known as the radial artery. This is because arteries contain higher oxygen levels in the blood. Sometimes, he may take the sample from an artery in your elbow or groin. Nonetheless, in the case of a newborn child, the blood sample is collected from the baby’s heel or umbilical cord. 

Benefits of Blood Draw Test: 

• It measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in your blood. 
• Also, it checks the pH balance in the blood. 

12 Conditions Associated with Blood Oxygen Level Testing

Your healthcare provider is most likely to suggest a blood oxygen level test if you have: 

• Difficulty breathing
• Recent neck or head injury
• Has or have had covid-19
• Pneumonia
• Carbon monoxide poisoning 
• Smoke inhalation injury 
• Too much vomiting or nausea
• Drug overdose 
• COPD
• Asthma
• Cystic fibrosis (a fatal condition that damages the lungs and digestive system.) 
• Sleep Apnea (a sleep disorder affecting your breathing while you are asleep.) 

Also read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/health/how-to-manage-stress-and-anxiety-through-breathing-techniques/

How to Increase Your Oxygen Flow in the Body?

You are on the right page. Lung disease and shortness of breath can result in low oxygen levels. We began writing to guide you through ways that may improve your oxygen levels naturally, especially if your condition doesn’t need supplemental oxygen therapy. Therefore, we recommend:

• Practice deep breathing: The first and foremost method of increasing oxygen flow is to practice deep breathing, such as diaphragm exercises. These exercises enhance lung capacity, allowing more oxygen to enter the bloodstream and improving oxygen flow throughout the body. 
• Stay active: Regular exercise strengthens your lungs, increasing the amount of oxygen you bring in and allowing your body to use more oxygen. 
• Improve indoor air quality: Improving indoor air quality is essential. This can be done by using air purifiers, keeping indoor plants (natural air filters), and ensuring proper ventilation. These techniques can help reduce airborne toxins, allow for cleaner air, and improve oxygen absorption. 
• Eat a healthy diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate. Foods such as leafy greens and lean meats can support the production of red blood cells, enhancing oxygen transport in the body. 
• Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated helps the blood carry oxygen more efficiently. Moreover, drinking adequate water can keep the lungs moist and improve gas exchange and oxygen absorption. 
• Get fresh air: Spending more time outdoors, especially in nature, where greenery is abundant, can increase oxygen levels in the lungs. Fresh air also removes stale air and toxins from the body. Spending more time in nature also has mental benefits, including reducing stress, better sleep, and greater happiness. 
• Avoid smoking and pollutants: Tobacco cravings can damage lung tissues and reduce oxygen absorption. Therefore, quit smoking and practice nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), which doubles the chances of quitting. Additionally, avoid pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), ensuring cleaner air for better lung function. 
• Practice breathing exercises: If you struggle with stress, several breathing techniques, such as pursed lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, breath focus technique, and pranayam, can help you feel calmer and more relaxed. 
• Improve posture: You might be surprised to learn that keeping your posture right is equally important for improving your oxygen levels. Good posture when sitting and standing allows the lungs to expand fully, allowing for better airflow. 
• Spend time indoors: Do not step out of the home unless necessary. Balance indoor time with outdoor exposure for fresh oxygen intake and optimal health. 

Conclusion

You need not monitor your oxygen levels daily unless you have an underlying condition affecting them. You can use an at-home pulse oximeter to measure your blood's oxygen saturation level. However, a blood test for oxygen flow is recommended to receive the most accurate results. 

Do not delay; consult your physician if you experience symptoms of not having enough oxygen in the blood, such as headache, shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing. Get the best medical advice possible to prevent complications. 

FAQs

1. Is a blood test for oxygen painful?

Yes. A blood test for oxygen is more painful than a regular one. The expert inserts a small needle into your artery to take a blood sample. 

2. Are there any risks associated with a blood oxygen level test?

The risks associated with a blood oxygen level test include light-headedness, dizziness, or nausea. Seek medical assistance immediately if you develop a bruise, swelling, or excessive bleeding at the puncture site.