Yes, a panic or anxiety attack can potentially lower SpO2 (oxygen saturation) readings on a finger pulse oximeter, but it's essential to understand why this might happen.
During a panic or anxiety attack, the body's stress response is activated, leading to a surge of adrenaline and other stress hormones. This can cause physiological changes, such as increased heart rate and rapid breathing. Hyperventilation is common during panic attacks, where individuals may breathe too quickly and shallowly.
When someone hyperventilates, they tend to exhale more carbon dioxide (CO2) than usual. This can lead to a temporary imbalance in the blood's oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. As a result, the pulse oximeter may display lower SpO2 readings than the actual oxygen saturation in the arterial blood. The pulse oximeter calculates SpO2 based on the amount of oxygen-bound hemoglobin in the blood, and it may not accurately represent the overall oxygen status during hyperventilation.
It's important to note that in most cases, the SpO2 levels measured by a finger pulse oximeter are still reasonably accurate under normal circumstances. However, during a panic or anxiety attack with hyperventilation, the SpO2 readings may not reflect the true oxygen saturation accurately.
If you experience panic or anxiety attacks and notice changes in your pulse oximeter readings during these episodes, try to focus on your breathing. Slow and deep breathing can help regulate carbon dioxide levels and may improve SpO2 readings. However, if you have concerns about your SpO2 levels or experience any breathing difficulties, it's crucial to seek medical attention to rule out any other underlying health issues.