[mnm1207]

I had another ABG today...I had to push for it because I did not think they did it right before and now I am at a better hospital. My Pa02 levels were 70....low. The Cardiol called me and was concerned and does not know what is going on. Now I have to wait.....and I am the wrong person to wait. Does anyone have any ideas what could cause only the pa02 levels to be low. I am so scared and really need some input or someone to talk to.

[Jeff]

Hi Maria -

Your situation is certainly an enigma. But with an ABG test that now is reading low (what was the oxygen level of the first test?), and your personal history of living in a smokey environment, I would think tests to rule out emphysema would be warranted.

It's normally seen in people much older, but supermodel Christy Turlington was diagnosed at 31, 5 years after she quit smoking. So I guess it's a possibility. Though caught in the early stages it is not as bad as what some sites make it out to be.

Stay vigilant, keep after those docs, and worry only when you have good reason to.

[mnm1207]

I am so worried that it is something that cannot be fixed. I have real bad sob and those purple nails............wish I had someone who really new about this to talk to...cause I am doing horrible.

[jkfrench]

When is your next appointment? What is a normal
pa02 level? Are you just below normal?
How about if you take your husband to your next appointment and get all the answers you need from the doctor so that you can feel better. Make a list and don't leave until you feel comfortable with the outcome. Sometimes we go to these appointments and at least I know for me, I am so full of anxiety that I just don't get the clarification I need to make me feel better. They tend to push us in and out of the office so quickly. I always feel like I am wasting their time. So...if that is what happens to you too, then take someone with you and get the answers you need. You can't go on worrying like this. I've been there and I am so sorry that you aren't closer so I could just come over and sit with you. I was a single mom for a long time and had terrible anxiety and heart issues during many of her years. I would lie next to her in bed and just pray that I wouldn't die! I know what being scared is and I'm telling you, that you need to have these doctors clarify things for you so that you believe that you will be okay.
Jodie

[mnm1207]

Normal po2 is 85-105. Mine is 70. He called me with the results and seemed kind of perplexed in why I had low oxygen. My husband was with me, but he isn't really good at asking questions. I am worried that my oxygen will suddenly drop....I am so sad. Thanks for the advice, I just don't want to die.

[jkfrench]

My husband isn't good at asking questions either. So take someone who is. Or just call the doctor back tomorrow and ask him if you will die. I know that sounds crazy but I have asked that question more than once. I mean if you are sitting here tonight wondering if you are going to die then he didn't explain things well enough to you. He just acted perplexed but didn't explain what needed to be done to determine why it was a little low? Ugh...I feel for you because I know how hard it is to get the answers you need to feel better. We are thinking one way and doctors are thinking another way.
How did the conversation end? Did he say that he needed to see you again?
Jodie

[mnm1207]

The problem is he is going to a conference and won't be back for three weeks. But he said he was concerned about it and he doesn't think its cardiac related but the pulmonologist doesn't think its lung related....so now they have to figure out which it is. In the meantime I am here waiting...scared. I have no family here, so I have no one else to help me with this.,