How to know if you have Hypoxia? Try this 5-minute test
Chandigarh, June 14, 2021: Hypoxia, a condition where there is not enough oxygen that makes it to cells in the body. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has recommended a 5 minutes’ walk test to know if you have Hypoxia.
The government has highly recommended this five minutes’ walk test for the asymptomatic or mild and moderate COVID-19 patients who are being treated at home.
Steps to follow:
1. Record your Oxygen saturation using an Oximeter
2. Walk around the room for 6 minutes continuously with the Oximeter attached to your finger and observe the reading.
3. Record the Oxygen Saturation soon after the walk
4. Consult the doctor immediately if: there is a drop in saturation below 94%, an absolute drop of 3-5 %, or if you feel unwell (lightheaded, short of breath) while performing the test at the end of 6 minutes.
Note
The test can be repeated every 6 to 8 hours. It should not be done if people are older than 70 years, those with uncontrolled asthma, and pregnant patients.