Many conditions affect how oxygen from the air is inhaled into the lungs and delivered to the body. Oxygen therapy can help treat breathing problems and improve symptoms. Many people who get oxygen therapy find traveling to be difficult. Portable oxygen tanks may be available to those who have chronic issues. Ask your doctor if a portable oxygen tank is right for you.
People with serious illnesses may need oxygen therapy to make sure they are getting enough oxygen. Example of conditions includes:
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Asthma
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COPD
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Cystic fibrosis
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Heart failure
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Pneumonia
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Radiation therapy
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Sleep apnea
Speak with your doctor about whether you could benefit from oxygen therapy.
What is Oxygen Therapy?
Oxygen therapy gives patients extra oxygen when they cannot get enough oxygen from the air. This can be caused by many health issues. Oxygen therapy can be provided in a medical setting, in the home, or on the go with portable oxygen tanks.
Oxygen can be supplied through a tank or other container. Tubes connect to the container to supply to the mouth, nose or windpipe. Methods to transfer the oxygen include:
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Breathing tube in the windpipe
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Mask
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Nasal prongs tubes supply oxygen to the patient using an oxygen tank.
Oxygen therapy can help people get the oxygen they need for their bodies to function. Oxygen therapy improves:
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Shortness of breath
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Fatigue
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Sleep
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Lifespan of some COPD patients
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Quality of life
Your doctor will go over how much oxygen you need. Some patients only need oxygen at night. Ask your doctor any questions you may have about oxygen therapy
