Update on the fluctuating o2 levels.
I’m mostly recovered from Covid but the effects hung around for awhile.
I’ve started checking my o2 levels again and have gotten a few scares-in low to mid 80’s. It doesn’t stay there, but now I’m able to connect it with physical symptoms like shortness of breath or nausea.
I wish I’d had the oximeter with me at the dog park yesterday when I felt that suffocating feeling I’m so familiar with, plus sweating and visual changes. Yes, part of it may have been anxiety but I wish I knew. I was strong walking and able to walk around with the dog, so it’s a mystery.
Add to the stress the fact that I’m scheduled for my MAYO appt with
pulmonologist on Tues. I’m wondering if it’s ok to fly, as o2 levels in everyone drop in flight. I asked my pulmonologist here and he said he couldn’t answer that without a sleep study to see how low I go at night(been having some desat issues at night even with Cpap). However, they haven’t been able to get me in this week.
I did do the six minute walk test the correct way with this pulmo and it came out well.
So it’s up to me. I’ve made a personal decision not to use supplemental oxygen, so that’s not an option. I don’t want to get dependent on it. I watched my mom go down that road and it is like an addiction.
I know this forum is not for medical advice and I’m not seeking that. I just wondered if anyone has been in a similar situation.
Sorry this is so long but I needed to vent. I’m stuck between taking the risk(which may not be that great; I’ve probably flown with this before and not even known it) to get to some of the best doctors in the world who probably can figure this out and playing it safe, putting off the appt again and waiting for the sleep study. 😟