I have low readings when they check my oxygen level in the doctors office ever since I fell face down 3 years ago, which fractured my xephoid in my sternum and developed pemonia 3 days later. I have never had problems before this fall. I had 13 sites that were injured. I am being told I have Hypoxemia, could this have tHANK yOUbeen caused by the fall. When I fell I lost my breath 2 TIMES. mY e-mAIL IS YYYY@YYYY
Hello and welcome to Chat Doctor, Fractures of the bones of rib cage can lead to compromise of respiratory functions. It can decrease the amount of oxygen reaching the lungs and can thus reduce the oxygen saturation. The amount of carbon dioxide can also increase and thus lead to fast and labored breathing. Immediate management consists of maintaining the oxygen saturation. Thus, you need to consult a pulmonologist or critical care specialist. The definitive management is reduction and management of the fracture. Thanks and take care Chat Doctor.