Does a pulse oximeter show helpful data about the heart?

[TJE123]

I have some heart anxiety lately, does a pulse oximeter show helpful data about heart? A good heart rate/oxygen level means things are working, right?

[vardnas]

Are you asking because you have a pulse oximeter and you're using it, or because you're thinking of getting one?

If you're thinking of getting one—don't.

If you have one already, go find the receipt and take it back. There is NO REASON you need to monitor your oxygen saturation. NO REASON.

Self-testing will ONLY lead to more anxiety. You might not believe that now, but you will soon.

I once bought a pulse oximeter to try and "keep track," but a friend of mine saw it and FORCED me to return it to the store.

As my doctor once told me, if your pulse ox is "too low" you wouldn't be in a position to think about it, you'd be unconscious or dead.

Take that thing back.

[kmwondering]

Self checking seems like a good idea....but it is not. Unless you are directed to by a doctor because of a medical condition, there is no good reason for (and many good reasons against) self monitoring.

[gcalex]

i wouldn't go anywhere near a pulse oximeter.  Guaranteed to increase your anxiety.

[sassparella]

Step away from the monitoring device... you don't need it and as everyone has said all it will do is make you more anxious.

[oregoncoastlady]

I have one of these meters to monitor my mom's oxygen level when her winter asthma kicks in. I'm not a chronic heart worried, so it has never been a problem. I use it periodically and if my pulse is up I do some deep breathing to watch it go down. HOWEVER, I could see where a person with heart HA would have that thing attached to their finger constantly. Probably not a good idea.

[marc]

I agree with the previous posts. I would not use one unless directed by your physician.

[Hohum]

Yup I have to echo the comments above. You're not a medical Doctor therefore have neither the training or expertise to interpret what results a pulse oximeter would give you.

Not trying to be harsh, but seriously - walk away from this idea right now!

[PinkIcePrincess]

  I own one myself and use it to calm myself down and it works for me I can lower my heart rate and control my panic better.
 The thing is everyone that replied is right if you are a Chronic Worrier and use it non stop and dwell then NO you do not need it now if a person has Health problems and needs one then of course or like me and can handle it and use it for a good reason then fine.
 I worked in Health Care so I am advocate on using those things.. Just gotta be in the right frame of mind and also sometimes having one you do get used to it and know you are ok and stop using it.
  Good Luck and Take Care..
  PinkIcePrincess