Fitbit's Newest Feature Monitors Blood Oxygen Levels During Sleep
Fitbit releases a new Signature SpO2 watch face for all Fitbit Versa and Fitbit Ionic, and the new Fitbit Sense, though it might not yet be available for all markets. This unique clock face is dedicated to monitoring your estimated blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) level during sleep.
The Fitbit company has a disclaimer that warns users about this feature, claiming that it does not measure or display SpO2 values below 80 percent. It is not as accurate as those being used in hospitals and should not be used as medical devices or to diagnose or treat medical conditions. This serves as a useful indicator to allow wearers to be more aware of the current state of their health, and results displayed may be an indicator to speak to your doctor.
How does it work?
Although Fitbit's smartwatches are known to have such sensors, this new watch face features a measurement of your estimated blood oxygen saturation.
Install the SpO2 clock face, switch to this face when you go to bed, and you will be able to see your average SpO2 and range an hour after getting up.
It has become relatively easy to measure blood oxygenation levels with accessibility pulse oximeters. Some smartphones have also featured such sensors in the past.
These Fitbit sensors work by shining infrared light on the skin's blood vessels. As the color of blood is darker when it is deoxygenated, Fitbit can use infrared light to get an estimate of your blood saturation level. The SpO2 value is estimated by seeing how the light reflected varies as your heartbeats.
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What is Oxygen Saturation (SpO2)?
Also known as blood oxygenation or blood oxygen saturation, spO2 refers to how much oxygen your red blood cells are carrying. For the body to function correctly, it requires a specific amount of oxygen in your blood.Oxygen levels in the blood tend to remain relatively constant even during periods of activity or sleep. The average oxygen saturation readings range from 95 to 100 percent, and a drop below the normal range can be detrimental to the proper function of the body and will likely require supplemental oxygen. Maintaining normal oxygen-saturated blood is vital to your health.
Oxygen Saturation Levels and Its Significance
A below-normal level of oxygen in your blood or hypoxemia indicates a problem with breathing or circulation and may result in shortness of breath.A higher than normal oxygen levels usually occur within people who use supplemental oxygen. But if breathing is unassisted, it's highly unlikely to experience elevated oxygen levels.
Most people don't need regular monitoring of their blood oxygen level. People with known health problems that may affect oxygen levels are usually the ones that need to check their levels.
If you experience shortness of breath without any physical exertion or has difficulty breathing when physically active, you may need to consult your physician.
To cope with shortness of breath, try to maintain regular exercise to improve overall strength and endurance. It is also advisable to quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
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