Your Essential Guide to Oxygen Therapy
Understanding Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy delivers extra oxygen to people struggling with low oxygen levels, often due to conditions like COPD. The main goals are to boost blood oxygen, ease breathlessness, enhance daily life, and lower complication risks. Common delivery methods include nasal cannulas, face masks, and portable concentrators, customized to individual needs.
Who Needs Oxygen Therapy?
Assessment and Recommendations
Your healthcare team will assess your oxygen levels with tests such as pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis. Oxygen therapy may be recommended if your blood oxygen levels fall below a certain threshold, particularly during rest, activity, or sleep. It is most prescribed for:
- People with severe COPD and chronic hypoxemia
- Those who experience severe breathlessness even at rest
- Individuals at high risk for life-threatening complications due to low oxygen levels
It is important to use oxygen as prescribed to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
Key Benefits of Oxygen Therapy
- Boosted Oxygen Levels: Helps vital organs work better.
- Eases Breathlessness: Reduces shortness of breath for more activity and independence.
- Better Quality of Life: Supports participation in daily tasks and social events.
- Complication Prevention: Lowers risk of heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and cognitive issues.
- Fewer Hospital Visits: Decreases flare-ups that lead to hospitalization.
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