oxygen level 87 while sleeping

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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13-03-2025

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Is an Oxygen Level of 87 While Sleeping Cause for Concern?

Meta Description: Discover what an oxygen saturation level of 87% while sleeping means, potential causes like sleep apnea, and when to seek medical attention. Learn about diagnostic tests, treatment options, and how to improve your sleep hygiene for better oxygen levels. This comprehensive guide provides vital information about low oxygen levels during sleep.

Introduction:

Waking up feeling breathless or discovering you have an oxygen saturation (SpO2) level of 87% while sleeping can be alarming. A normal SpO2 level is typically between 95% and 100%. An SpO2 of 87% signifies hypoxemia, meaning your blood oxygen level is lower than normal. While occasional dips can be benign, consistently low oxygen levels during sleep require medical attention. This article explores the potential causes, diagnostic tests, and treatment options for low oxygen levels during sleep. Understanding your oxygen levels during sleep is crucial for maintaining your overall health.

What Causes Low Blood Oxygen While Sleeping (87% SpO2)?

Several factors can contribute to low blood oxygen levels during sleep. Some of the most common causes include:

• Sleep Apnea: This is a very common cause of low blood oxygen while sleeping. Sleep apnea involves pauses in breathing during sleep, leading to drops in oxygen levels. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most frequent type, caused by a blockage in the airway. Central sleep apnea involves the brain failing to signal the body to breathe.

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis can restrict airflow, leading to reduced oxygen intake, especially during sleep.

• Heart Failure: The heart's inability to pump enough oxygenated blood throughout the body can result in low oxygen levels during sleep.

• Pneumonia or other Lung Infections: Infections can inflame the lungs, impairing their ability to take in sufficient oxygen.

• Altitude Sickness: Spending time at high altitudes can lead to lower oxygen levels in the blood, potentially impacting sleep.

• Certain Medications: Some medications can have side effects that affect breathing or oxygen levels.

• Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to sleep apnea and other breathing problems.

• Other medical conditions: Anemia, neuromuscular disorders, and certain cancers also may impact oxygen levels.

How is Low Blood Oxygen During Sleep Diagnosed?

Diagnosing the cause of low oxygen levels during sleep often involves these tests:

• Polysomnography (Sleep Study): This comprehensive test monitors various physiological functions during sleep, including brain waves, heart rate, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels. It's crucial for diagnosing sleep apnea.

• Pulse Oximetry: A simple test using a sensor placed on your finger to measure your blood oxygen saturation. This can be done at home or in a sleep lab.

• Chest X-Ray: May be used to check for lung conditions or infections.

• Blood Tests: Can assess for anemia or other blood disorders.

• Arterial Blood Gas Test: Measures the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in your blood.

Treatment Options for Low Blood Oxygen While Sleeping

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: Used for sleep apnea, a CPAP machine delivers pressurized air through a mask, keeping airways open during sleep.

• Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): Similar to CPAP but provides varying levels of pressure during inhalation and exhalation.

• Oxygen Therapy: Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed to increase blood oxygen levels.

• Medication: Medications can be used to treat underlying conditions such as COPD or heart failure.

• Weight Loss: Weight reduction can significantly improve sleep apnea and oxygen levels.

• Lifestyle Changes: Improving sleep hygiene, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed can help.

When to See a Doctor About Low Oxygen Levels During Sleep

If you experience any of the following, consult a doctor immediately:

• Consistently low SpO2 levels while sleeping (below 90%).
• Daytime sleepiness or fatigue.
• Snoring loudly and frequently.
• Gasping or choking sounds during sleep.
• Morning headaches.
• Frequent awakenings during the night.

Improving Your Sleep Hygiene for Better Oxygen Levels

Even without a diagnosed sleep disorder, improving sleep hygiene can improve your oxygen levels:

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Take a warm bath, read a book, or listen to calming music.
• Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed.
• Get regular exercise, but not too close to bedtime.

Conclusion:

An oxygen level of 87% while sleeping is a serious issue that necessitates medical evaluation. While several conditions can cause low oxygen saturation during sleep, many are treatable. Through diagnostic testing and appropriate treatment, you can improve your oxygen levels and overall sleep quality. Don't hesitate to consult a doctor if you have concerns about your sleep or oxygen levels. Early intervention is key to managing this important aspect of your health. Addressing low oxygen levels during sleep is crucial for preventing long-term health problems and improving your quality of life.