Life on the Edge: How low can your oxygen level go before you die?

Oxygen is essential for human survival, fueling cellular functions throughout the body. However, the precise threshold at which oxygen levels become life-threatening varies from person to person and depends on several factors how low can your oxygen level go before you die, including overall health, age, and pre-existing medical conditions.

In general, oxygen saturation levels below 90% are considered low and may indicate hypoxemia, a condition characterised by inadequate oxygen levels in the blood. While mild hypoxemia may cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, confusion, or fatigue, severe hypoxemia can lead to organ damage and ultimately death.

The critical threshold for survival typically falls below 75-80% oxygen saturation. At this level, the body's vital organs, including the brain and heart, may not receive enough oxygen to function properly, leading to irreversible damage and eventual organ failure.

However, it's essential to note that individual responses to low oxygen levels can vary, and some individuals may tolerate lower oxygen levels for longer periods than others.