Hello,
YES! I have been having this problem for about two years now. I am 69 and have always been fairly healthy and always very active physically.

I had COVID that lasted for several months starting in January of 2022. I was hospitalized for three days (unbelievably, due to a telemedicine doctor telling me to drink lots of licorice root tea to help treat COVID for its medicinal qualities and it ended up depleting my potassium and I gained 10 pounds of fluid overnight), but while in the hospital it was discovered I had two prolapsed heart valves (and no, before COVID, I never had any heart issues). My mitral valve was "almost severe" and my aortic valve was "moderate." Nearly 8 months later follow up visits showed my valves had improved and the plan for repair surgery was cancelled. I see my cardiologist at Cedar's Sinai approximately every 6 months now and things are "stable."

However, during this time it was discovered I also have variable 02 rates which go from the mid 80's to normal (95+). This was initially discovered after a sleep study test because I kept waking up feeling out of breath, however, I was informed I do not have sleep apnea. Doctors have not been able to find the problem and truly don't seem concerned at all because my "levels are not consistently at 88 or below." Sorry, but I AM concerned because this is NOT NORMAL! After a 5 hour airplane ride this last summer, where out of curiosity I monitored my 02 rates during the entire trip, my 02 remained consistent at 86.

My cardiologist told me this is not related to my heart valve issues. I also saw a pulmonologist in 2022 and had a lung test, CAT scan (I do have a small spot on my lung that is not changing), and my GP has "no idea" what could be causing my problem. I have also been diagnosed with 3 autoimmune diseases in the last 2 years: small fiber neuropathy, Vitiligo, and Lichen Sclerosis.

I sleep with 02 support at night (1 to 2 liters) to avoid waking up gasping for breath and to help me sleep better knowing my 02 levels are adequate. However, for the most part, during the day, I can not tell when my 02 levels are low.

NO ONE has been able to tell me WHY my 02 levels are so erratic. It is frightening for me and I want to figure out WHY this is happening.

Your post is over a year old... have you been able to find out anything more? I hope you are doing well.

Sincerely,

Sharon Hunt