Overnight Oximetry

If you have symptoms of low oxygen levels, including morning headaches, difficulty breathing, or snoring at night, see the specialists at Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. in Joliet and New Lenox, Illinois. The board-certified pulmonologists offer overnight oximetry to assess the amount of oxygen present in your body at night while sleeping. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.

What is overnight oximetry?

Overnight oximetry is a test that monitors oxygen levels during sleep. It helps diagnose certain lung conditions or sleep disorders. Overnight oximetry determines if you need to begin or continue completing home oxygen therapy for a respiratory condition. The Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. experts are highly trained in oxygen testing using the latest technologies.

Which conditions can overnight oximetry address?

Your provider may suggest you complete overnight oximetry if they suspect you have or you’ve received a diagnosis of:

• Sleep apnea
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary hypertension 
• Recurring congestive heart failure
• Diffuse interstitial lung disease
• Bronchiectasis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Sarcoidosis
• Lung cancer
• Lung infections

Symptoms of low oxygen levels include morning headaches, breathing irregularities, cognitive issues, shortness of breath, and snoring.

Is overnight oximetry right for me?

Your pulmonologist determines if you’re a candidate for overnight oximetry after discussing your symptoms, medical history, medications, and lifestyle. They check your vital signs, complete a medical exam, and may order lung function testing in the office.

What are the benefits of overnight oximetry?

The advantages associated with overnight oximetry include:

• No pain
• Utmost safety 
• Ease of use
• No restricted mobility

You can complete overnight oximetry from the comfort of your home when it’s convenient for you. Your Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. specialist explains how to complete the testing process.

What can I expect during overnight oximetry?

During overnight oximetry testing, simply wear an oxygen sensor or your finger. It sends data to an oximeter, which records your oxygen levels and heart rate while you sleep. Your pulmonologist receives the data collected during overnight oximetry and discusses the results with you. 

What do my overnight oximetry results mean?

Your Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. provider determines if you’re a candidate for home oxygen therapy during the day or while sleeping. If you need oxygen therapy, documentation from your physician is vital for insurance coverage.

Oxygen therapy uses a nasal cannula or a mask to deliver oxygen to your body, increasing oxygen levels in your blood to reduce bothersome symptoms and the risk of complications. You might also receive treatment for sleep apnea. 

To determine if you’re a candidate for overnight oximetry, schedule an evaluation at Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.