How bad is the number 74 on an oxymeter?

An oxymeter measures the oxygen saturation level in your blood. A reading of 74% is considered low and requires immediate medical attention. Normal oxygen saturation levels typically range from 95% to 100%.

When your oxygen saturation level is low, it means your body is not receiving enough oxygen. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

* Lung diseases: such as pneumonia, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

* Heart disease: such as heart failure and congenital heart defects

* Anemia: a condition in which your blood does not have enough healthy red blood cells

* Smoking: smoking can damage the lungs and reduce their ability to absorb oxygen

* Certain medications: such as opioids and anesthesia

* High altitude: the air at high altitudes contains less oxygen than the air at sea level

Low oxygen saturation levels can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

* Shortness of breath

* Chest pain

* Confusion

* Lethargy

* Rapid heart rate

* Bluish skin or lips

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.

Treatment for low oxygen saturation levels will depend on the underlying cause. In some cases, oxygen therapy may be necessary. Oxygen therapy involves breathing in supplemental oxygen through a mask or nasal cannula. In other cases, medication or surgery may be necessary to treat the underlying cause of low oxygen saturation levels.