Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign up Log in
Powered By
Real members of myPHteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Why Does My Oxygen Go Down When I'm Walking

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Flagstaff, AZ
February 3, 2024
View reactions
A myPHteam Member

Oxygen levels decrease with activity because your heart beats faster, increasing your demand for oxygen. With PH the blood vessels in the lungs are narrowed, impairing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Quite simply, your heart and lungs cannot keep up with the demands of your body during activity. This is why the 6MWT is such a critical tool.

February 6, 2024
A myPHteam Member

Just be careful while off oxygen. I passed out and hit my head requiring a week in the hospital

February 3, 2024
myPHteam

When you have pulmonary hypertension (PH), your heart and lungs have to work harder to pump blood and oxygen throughout your body. This can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels, especially during physical activities like walking. Here are some reasons why this might happen:

- Increased Demand: Walking increases your body's Show Full Answer

When you have pulmonary hypertension (PH), your heart and lungs have to work harder to pump blood and oxygen throughout your body. This can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels, especially during physical activities like walking. Here are some reasons why this might happen:

- Increased Demand: Walking increases your body's demand for oxygen, which can be challenging for someone with PH.
- Reduced Blood Flow: PH can slow down blood flow, making it harder for oxygen to reach your muscles and organs.
- Exertion: Physical exertion can exacerbate symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, leading to lower oxygen levels.

If you experience significant drops in oxygen levels while walking, it's important to discuss this with your doctor. They may recommend adjustments to your treatment plan or suggest using supplemental oxygen during activities.

August 1, 2024
A myPHteam Member

Thank you

February 6, 2024
A myPHteam Member

I HATE doing the 6 minute walk. It's a real torture test for me.

February 3, 2024

Related content

View All

Does Anyone Else Get Extremely Short Of Breath And Experience Pain When You Bend Over?

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Maryville, TN

I Have Been Diagnosed With Ph Back In 2002 Have Been On Oxygen For Many Years. I Now Have Pacemaker In And Defibrillator. I Have Just Had Ox

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Greeneville, TN

Exercise

A myPHteam Member asked a question 💭
Colorado Springs, CO

Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data and Privacy policies.
Already a Member? Log in