Next to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) equipment, which oxygen concentrator should you use? We felt it would be a great opportunity to respond to this specific issue while also expanding on the topic of using oxygen with CPAP in general.

Let’s start by looking at why you might need to use a CPAP machine, and then we’ll look at why you might need to utilize oxygen with CPAP.

Both an oxygen concentrator and a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) equipment are used to treat breathing problems and other comparable medical disorders. Despite this, the two gadgets are vastly different. While it is critical to follow your consulting doctor’s advice, it is also critical to understand the differences between the two.

What is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Machine?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is abbreviated as CPAP. A filter and a small water tank that works as a humidifier are included in the machine. It also includes a mask that is worn on the face to allow oxygen to be inhaled. With the help of a tube, the mask and the machine unit are connected. The equipment is especially beneficial for people who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. It allows patients to breathe more easily and sleep well. The equipment increases the air pressure in the throat, preventing the airway from collapsing during inhaling. The use of a CPAP machine has also been shown to help with snoring.

What is the difference between an oxygen concentrator and a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine?

The functions of an oxygen concentrator and a CPAP machine are different. They serve two distinct functions. As previously stated, an oxygen concentrator removes nitrogen and other gases from the ambient air to create rich oxygen for breathing. A CPAP machine, on the other hand, does not increase oxygen levels. This equipment provides high pressure to keep the throat open and the obstructive sleep apnea disease under control.

The phrase “sleep apnea” refers to both central and obstructive sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most prevalent of the two kinds of sleep apnea.

If your doctor has previously diagnosed you with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you most likely have a CPAP machine that you use at night while sleeping. The main purpose of a CPAP machine is to keep your airway open while you sleep by using pressured air. The pressurised air, on the other hand, retains the same normal oxygen concentration as regular air, which is 21% oxygen. OSA can progress to major consequences if left untreated, although the immediate effect is a continuous lack of oxygen during sleep.

If your doctor determines that your oxygen levels drop too low or too frequently while you sleep, even while using a CPAP machine, supplemental oxygen may be prescribed to be used in conjunction with your CPAP machine to maintain normal oxygen levels. This is accomplished by infusing oxygen into your CPAP system to raise the oxygen percentage to more than 21%.

If you’ve come this far in your therapy and are wondering how a CPAP machine and an oxygen concentrator would function together, the answer is simple.

Using an oxygen concentrator and a CPAP machine at the same time

Doctors recommend using an oxygen concentrator and a CPAP machine at the same time for certain difficult medical problems. When a patient has pulmonary edoema as well as obstructive sleep apnea, this might be a problem. To recover from this situation, the patient needs a steady supply of oxygen as well as a device that applies pressure to the neck. Both of these goals can be met by combining an oxygen concentrator with a CPAP machine. With the use of an oxygen concentrator, the amount of oxygen in the ambient air will be raised, and pressure to keep the throat open will be provided using a CAPA and Bipap machine.

When turning both machines on and off, there is another method to follow.

Always switch on the CPAP machine first, before turning on the oxygen concentrator. When you’re finished with them, switch off the oxygen concentrator first, then switch off the CPAP machine. Because high oxygen concentrations can damage the CPAP machine over time, this treatment is required.

The Upshot

Hopefully, you can see how simple it is to use oxygen with CPAP, regardless of the brand of oxygen concentrator you already have. You may easily connect these two devices using a simple adapter (or the connector already on your mask) and oxygen tubing and go about enjoying a nice night’s sleep.

Read also: Unique Understanding Molecular Sieves and how they ensure Purity Levels in Oxygen Concentrators

Most experts agree that when you’re sleeping, you breathe differently than when you’re awake. Others breathe via their mouths, while others take weak, irregular breaths. In any case, during sleep, the oxygen level in the blood decreases, which is normal up to a point.

However, if you have asthma, sleep apnea, obesity, or heart disease, you may not obtain enough oxygen while sleeping. Low oxygen levels can exacerbate pre-existing illnesses and contribute to the emergence of new health problems.

As you may be aware, oxygen therapy can be quite beneficial for people suffering from respiratory ailments such as COPD. Oxygen therapy might help you get more done in a day and boost your energy levels. However, for those who aren’t used to it, getting used to oxygen treatment can be a pain– particularly if you’re attempting to sleep through it! Fortunately, there are ways to get the most out of supplemental oxygen therapy, even if you have to take it while sleeping.

If you’re new to using supplemental oxygen, or if you’ve been using it for a while but are having difficulties sleeping while on it, these suggestions can help you have a much better experience.

6 things you should be aware of while using an Oxygen Concentrator

So, here are 6 important things that you should be aware of while using an Oxygen Concentrator overnight.

1. Coping with its noise

When it comes to using oxygen therapy, one of the most common worries is that the noise level might be overwhelming when trying to sleep. It’s possible that your noisy oxygen concentrator is due to the fact that it wasn’t designed for light sleepers. Before you go shopping for a machine, be sure the sound it makes is less than 48 decibels so you can hear it.

2. Dryness of the nose and irritation of the skin

You may suffer adverse effects such as skin irritation and dryness in your nasal passages after using oxygen therapy routinely throughout the night or for extended periods of time. These two problems aren’t uncommon, as they can affect anyone who uses oxygen. To aid with the side effects, a humidifier is necessary for long-term oxygen therapy, and you can also use a moisturizing product such as a saline nasal mist or nasal gel to give lubrication and reduce dryness. In the long run, this may make using oxygen treatment more comfortable.

3. Use the appropriate oxygen rate

It’s common for your doctor to do an arterial blood gas (ABG) test, often known as oximetry, before starting oxygen therapy. This test determines the correct oxygen flow rate for you by measuring the oxygen in your blood. Once your doctor has prescribed a flow rate for you, you must set your concentrator to that rate and stay at it. If you don’t get enough oxygen when sleeping, it can harm your brain and heart. On the other side, exceeding this oxygen flow rate can have negative consequences. You must adhere to your doctor’s instructions.

4. Maintain it on a regular basis

You must ensure that your machine undergoes the proper maintenance inspection and procedure to ensure that it continues to perform without issues. Some oxygen concentrators have filters that must be cleaned on a regular basis. You must follow the maintenance instructions in the manual to ensure that your machine is operating at its best.

5. Proceed with caution while using the machine.

Depending on your doctor’s advice, you may need to use oxygen treatment on a daily basis. While sleeping, you may experience low oxygen levels. Others require oxygen therapy on a regular basis to supplement their oxygen requirements. In any case, you must follow your doctor’s instructions in order to achieve the best outcomes.

6. Maintaining the position of the oxygen mask or cannula

When looking for a cannula or mask, make sure it fits comfortably around your chin and mouth. If the rubber chafes against your face, wrap it in white first-aid tape to act as padding for the tube. Another common problem is when the nasal prongs brush against the insides of your nostrils, producing pain. If this happens to you, lubricate the prongs’ ends with a thin layer of water-based lubricant. You can also use a saline nasal spray on a daily basis to keep your nasal passages wet and relieve pain during the therapy.

Before we end this blog it’s only fair to run down on the benefits that these machines offer if you’re sleeping on them; it allows us to have a holistic view in front of us. So, here are the perks:

• A considerable increase in sleep quality, allowing the body to recover correctly;
• Improved mood by alleviating anxiety and melancholy brought on by insomnia;
• A good night’s sleep gives you more stamina, vitality, and attentiveness during the day;
• There is a significant reduction in the chance of developing health problems as a result of low oxygen levels.

The Conclusion

Don’t take off your mask or cannula, no matter how tempted you are to do so. Continue to wear it. Although oxygen therapy may be difficult at first, after you get used to it, you will notice that your breathing improves. It can bring about a positive contrast in the quality of your life! The most important thing is to follow your doctor’s instructions, which will pay off in both daily activities and in the long run.

You can learn more and all about Servotech’s Oxygen Concentrators and even shop them at:

While we sleep, our breathing pattern alters. Since we breathe predominantly with our lips, we tend to breathe dearer while we’re asleep, however, others may breathe a bit shallower, too. If you utilize oxygen therapy at night, your nighttime oxygen solution may differ from what you use during the day for supplemental oxygen.

During non-rapid eye movement sleep, a person’s breathing rate usually slows down and becomes irregular. Not everyone can sleep through the transitions. When contacted, your physician may suggest sleeping with an oxygen concentrator to assist you in maintaining your oxygen levels throughout the night.

As you may be aware, oxygen therapy can be quite beneficial for people suffering from respiratory ailments such as COPD. Oxygen therapy might help you get more done in a day and boost your energy levels. However, for those who aren’t used to it, getting used to oxygen treatment can be a pain– particularly if you’re attempting to sleep through it!

Lack of oxygen can result in disturbed sleep cycles

Sleep deprivation affects many pulmonary fibrosis patients, increasing fatigue and lowering quality of life. We may find it difficult to fall and stay asleep. Increased weariness and a poor quality of life are linked to sleep deprivation. Sleep issues can be caused by a variety of issues, one of which is low oxygen saturation.

Patients with pulmonary fibrosis are more vulnerable during the REM (rapid eye movement) phase of the sleep cycle. The most regenerative stage of the cycle, REM sleep, is problematic for PF patients. The diaphragm controls breathing during REM sleep, while the smaller auxiliary muscles are temporarily disabled.

When this happens, those who do not have a lung disease are unaffected, but it is a concern for PF patients. Our blood oxygen levels may drop, causing us to become aware and interrupt our REM slumber. We dream, consolidate our memories, and allow our bodies to recoup and prepare for the next day during REM sleep. Our immune system’s performance can be harmed if we don’t get enough REM sleep.

Consult your doctor if an overnight oximetry study to evaluate your oxygen levels while you sleep may be beneficial. Using oxygen during the night may help you sleep better and feel better in the morning.

For some individuals, pulse dosage portable concentrators can be an efficient nightly alternative; nevertheless, to assure optimal blood oxygen levels while sleeping, a continuous-flow oxygen source is often recommended. A nightly sleep study to monitor your blood oxygen levels and breathing behaviors may be used by your doctor to identify your individual needs. Your physician can calculate exactly what flow setting you’ll require while sleeping based on this study and other tests, allowing you to choose your nightly oxygen machine accordingly.

What to look for in a concentrator with a sleep mode feature?

There are various portable solutions to choose from in instances when a large stationary concentrator is not possible or when travel necessitates a tiny and lightweight nocturnal oxygen solution. Certain features of some portable oxygen devices make them better suitable for overnight use. The concentrators reviewed here are excellent for nighttime use as long as they match your recommended oxygen demands.

The Servotech ST-DE-2A Oxygen Machine is among the most versatile alternatives for meeting both daytime and nocturnal oxygen demands. This machine was designed to satisfy the demands of patients who require supplementary oxygen. It has three modes of oxygen delivery: Continuous Flow Mode, Pulse Mode, and Sleep Mode. This machine is particularly portable because it may be powered by a wall socket. This is the most common oxygen solution for people who travel with sleep therapy equipment, such as a CPAP machine and need oxygen.

You may administer oxygen in a continuous flow that delivers nonstop oxygen up to 2 LPM if your physician has ordered it (liters per minute). The pulse dose mode, on the other hand, can be regulated to a maximum of 6.

The ST-DE-2A is designed for continuous use, and its enhanced ‘Sleep Mode’ delivers a pulse dose of oxygen for a longer period of time, allowing for a more restful night’s sleep. If the patient starts breathing shallowly or via their mouth, the device will switch to continuous flow mode and supply oxygen at a rate of 2 LPM to guarantee appropriate oxygenation.

It’s still the most powerful portable oxygen machine on the market, perfect for people who need continuous oxygen on the go. With a continuous flow rate of up to 3 LPM and pulse flow settings ranging from 1 to 9, this machine will meet the majority of oxygen users’ nighttime dose needs.

This machine can alter bolus size based on your breathing patterns when in pulse dose mode, ensuring constant and reliable oxygen delivery and patient comfort. If a patient breathes too softly to activate pulse flow delivery, this equipment has a sensor that will sound an alarm. The continuous flow mode is recommended to eliminate disruptions when sleeping.

COVID was not a word many of us were familiar with until February of last year; now it is a word we hear every day. Servotech has attempted to expand its supply network in order to provide additional oxygen concentrators to hospitals and consumers around the country. But the reason for the growing need of these machines is Long COVID. So, let’s start with the symptoms of COVID: There are numerous variants of the symptoms that persons with COVID are prone to, but these are the most prevalent ones:

• severe exhaustion (fatigue)
• Breathing problems
• stiffness or discomfort in the chest
• memory and attention issues (sometimes known as “brain fog”).
• inability to sleep (insomnia)
• palpitations in the heart
• feeling dizzy
• needles and pins
• achy joints
• Anxiety and depression
• earaches, tinnitus
• nausea, diarrhea, stomachaches, and a loss of appetite
• A fever, a cough, headaches, a sore throat, and changes in your sense of smell or taste
• having rashes

Of course, these symptoms could be signs of a variety of diseases and conditions, so if you’re concerned, talk to your doctor.

Servotech trying to ease it for you

Yes. We’ve been giving oxygen concentrators to many of those suffering from the symptoms of Long COVID over the previous few months. These units have aided in the improvement of energy levels, the reduction of sleeping difficulties, the reduction of chest pain, and, of course, the reduction of shortness of breath. We are not claiming that breathing oxygen is a total treatment, but it has been shown to significantly decrease the symptoms and aid recovery.

Many persons with COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and other lung disorders eventually need supplemental oxygen therapy to relieve their dyspnoea. Receiving a prescription for home oxygen, on the other hand, can be upsetting. Suddenly, everyone who comes into contact with you will be aware that you have a medical condition that necessitates the usage of oxygen.

When you work through the difficulties of setting up and using home oxygen therapy, keep in mind that it can significantly enhance your quality of life as your COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or other lung disease worsens.

At home on oxygen Support? These 7 things can make you more informed and relieved

1. Consult with family and friends ahead of time

When your lung doctor brings up the issue of oxygen therapy for the first time, go home and talk to your family about how it will influence your life. Let them know that the oxygen will allow you to stay active and do the things you love with them. As you adjust to utilizing home and portable oxygen, ask for their help. As you begin oxygen therapy, these dialogues may help you maintain as much normalcy as possible.

2. Recognize your concentrator’s upkeep requirements.

For home oxygen therapy, many persons are given an oxygen concentrator. This gadget can be tucked away in a corner and delivers oxygen to your nose via a long line that may be used around the house. Talk to your home oxygen provider about required concentrator maintenance when they set up your concentrator. Filters on concentrators, for example, must be changed on a regular basis.

3. Replace tubing and cannulas on a regular basis.

A lengthy tube connects to the concentrator or tank, and a nasal cannula links to the tubing and provides oxygen to your nostrils in supplemental oxygen therapy. Inquire with your oxygen provider about how often the main tube and cannula should be changed.
Even though the cannula does not appear to be filthy, you should change it periodically. Every month or two, the tubing should be replaced.

4. Always have spare tubing and cannulas on hand.

Always keep extra oxygen tubing and cannulas on hand in case one of them breaks while being used. It’s not difficult to cut tubing unintentionally, for example, by running a vacuum cleaner over it. If you have a spare tube at your disposal, you can avoid a disruption in the oxygen supply.

5. Prepare for power interruptions.

Your oxygen concentrator may not work if your home loses power. Write down an action plan to avoid losing your oxygen supply during a power outage. Switching to a portable oxygen tank while your electricity is restored should be part of your plan.
If you run out of oxygen before the power comes back on, get medical help immediately. Some people choose to buy a home backup generator if they have the financial means.

6. Clean the humidifier on a regular basis.

If you’re using an oxygen concentrator with a humidifier bottle, clean it periodically. In humidifier attachments, bacteria can quickly accumulate.
Remove the bottle once a week and wash it with soap and water.

7. Make fire safety a priority.

Although oxygen is not combustible or explosive in and of itself, oxygen concentrators and tanks infuse oxygen into the surroundings. They can make fires burn far faster than they should. Keep oxygen tanks and other oxygen-related equipment away from open flames.

Patients with lung disorders, such as low oxygen concentrator saturation when sleeping, shortness of breath (dyspnea), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or low blood oxygen levels, are administered oxygen treatment (hypoxemia). If you’re unsure whether to buy or rent, you should examine the benefits and drawbacks of both options before making a decision.

Who is advised Oxygen At Home?

Low blood oxygen levels necessitate the use of oxygen at home. This can occur as a result of COPD, asthma, infection, or surgery. Before handing out the portable concentrator, the dealers request a prescription. A trained physician must identify the problem and prescribe the portable concentrator as well as the exact dosage required.

What is an Oxygen Concentrator? How does it help?

An oxygen concentrator is a portable piece of equipment that you may take with you. It’s not like the previous oxygen tanks or stationary concentrators, which were extremely heavy and difficult to transport. An oxygen concentrator is a device that provides oxygen to people.

The oxygen concentrator filters, separate, and then draws air from the environment. After that, it compresses the air to the desired density and distributes purified oxygen to the patient. It also features filters that remove nitrogen from the air, ensuring that the patient receives only entirely purified oxygen. As it comes with modern technology, you can also alter the amounts of oxygen concentration and delivery settings. The patient can improve blood oxygen levels by inhaling oxygen through the mask.

Before deciding whether to rent or buy, there are a few things to consider

There are a few things to consider before renting or purchasing a concentrator:

• Determine your needs before purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator to ensure you get the proper one.
• Make sure you’re getting enough oxygen, and talk to your doctor about it. Varied people have different demands; some require it all of the time, while others only require it while sleeping, waking up, exercising, or strolling.
• Lastly, determine whether you require a pulse or continuous flow, as one provides it only when it is required, while the other provides it continuously and acts accordingly.

There are also a few technical aspects and product attributes that you must run down:

• The sort of batteries required, as well as how often they should be charged and when they should be replaced.
• Confirm the warranty and the warranty duration.
• Confirm the cleaning and maintenance requirements.
• The volume level might be annoying if it is too high.
• The unit’s size and weight, as most portable concentrators are tiny and easy to transport.
• The accessories that come with it spare batteries, cannulas, and even a carrying case are vital, several companies offer them.  If these aren’t included, you’ll eventually have to purchase it on your own.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Renting an Oxygen Concentrator

For the following reasons, renting an oxygen concentrator may be a viable option:

• The reason you require it. If it’s only for a brief period of time, such as after surgery or after it.
• In some locations, renting is a flexible choice that allows you to prolong the rental duration as needed.
• If you want to test the model before spending money in it to ensure that it is right for you.
• If the supplier provides you with some fantastic incentives, such as free maintenance or discounts on spare batteries.

For the following reasons, renting an oxygen concentrator may not turn out to be a good option:

• If the patient requires an oxygen concentrator for a longer period of time or as a permanent solution, the cost of renting will be wasted and may even exceed the cost of purchasing the oxygen concentrator.
• Some vendors may not provide attractive offers such as accessory rentals.
• Paying the rent on a weekly or monthly basis can be taxing and difficult on a mental level.
• When renting a device, take extra precautions because you must return it in the same condition as when you received it, as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Purchasing a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Investing in a portable oxygen concentrator might be advantageous for a variety of reasons:

• If you’re aware that you’ll require the concentrator for a period of time longer than six months.
• If you are familiar with the model you are about to purchase, either because you have used it before or because you have received feedback from others who have.
• If you wish to own the equipment and be able to use it in the future if necessary.
• If the manufacturer adds extras that make the purchase worthwhile.
• If the supplier is offering you a good price.

For the following reasons, renting a portable oxygen concentrator may not be the best option:

• It can be inconvenient to pay for a concentrator all at once.
• If you just require an oxygen concentrator for a short time.
• If the vendors do not provide maintenance on equipment that has been sold.
• Your money may be squandered if the machine you purchased does not suit your requirements.

As India battles a huge increase in Coronavirus cases during the second wave, there is an increased demand for oxygen, with hospitals unable to meet the demand, resulting in the death of patients in many cases. Consequently, the demand for oxygen concentrators is increasing.

What is an Oxygen Concentrator?

Oxygen concentrators work in a similar manner to oxygen tanks in that they supply oxygen directly to the patient through the same nasal cannula or tube. However, wherein oxygen tanks include a determined quantity of pressurized oxygen, concentrators accumulate oxygen from the encompassing air, accumulating it, after which it is supplied to the affected person, getting rid of the want for an alternative or refilling.

“They work on the formulae of ‘quick pressing factor swing ingestion’ which is the place where the nitrogen is eliminated from the air utilizing zeolite minerals which assimilate the nitrogen, leaving different gases to go through and leaving oxygen as the essential gas. When the oxygen is gathered, the pressing factor at that point drops which permits nitrogen to desorb and be ousted once more into the air through silencers,” Mahesh Pokhriyal, an expert in Medical Technology, New Delhi.

“There are no refilling restrictions on oxygen concentrators. It extracts oxygen from the atmosphere, allowing for an infinite supply of oxygen before electricity is available. Since cylinders may often leak and oxygen saturation increases the risk of fire, an oxygen concentrator is a safer choice than using oxygen cylinders”, GreenHand Medical’s HOD and Senior Consultant Pulmonology Dr Shammi Kanaujia said.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Oxygen Concentrator

Oxygen concentrators can produce oxygen that is up to 95% pure. It also has built-in oxygen sensors that can detect whether purity levels are dropping. The oxygen content of normal air is 21%. The concentrator takes in ambient air, filters nitrogen and other gases, and compresses the remaining oxygen before releasing it through the cannula.

Before considering any of these factors, keep in mind, that getting 90% pure oxygen should be your chief object.

1. Oxygen concentrators come in two versions, small (5 to 10 kg) oxygen concentrators suitable for COPD patients, and medium (15 to 19kg) and large (20kg and above) oxygen concentrators are suitable for COVID patients requiring critical care.
2. Small oxygen concentrators can have options from 1 Litre to 9 Litre Flow but this does not mean you get 90% oxygen at higher flow, like at 5 Litres. In small oxygen concentrators, 90% oxygen concentration is achieved only at lower flows of 1 to 2 liters. On higher flows, the oxygen concentration drops to 30% as you increase the flow, which is suitable for COPD patients but not for COVID patients.
3. Check the specifications of the oxygen concentrator and if you see 90% – 30% or (1L/min, 2L/min) means 90% oxygen is available only at 1Litre flow or 2Litre flow respectively and on higher flows, oxygen drops to 30%. The air we breathe includes 29% oxygen. So small (5kg to 10kg) oxygen concentrators at higher flows give an output of 30% oxygen means it’s just blowing air.
4. Weight is largely the best indicator to understand oxygen production capacity.

Reports suggest, “If the patient is given 1 liter of oxygen via the concentrator, the oxygen percentage (or fraction of inspired air) in the lungs rises to 24 percent, 2 liters to 28 percent, and 10 liters to 60 percent,” according to the study. The liters of oxygen per minute must be adjusted according to need.”

Oxygen concentrators are more convenient than oxygen cylinders because they are compact and easy to use. They are more expensive than cylinders, but they need very little maintenance.

The only ongoing costs are for electricity consumption and the replacement of disposable filters and sieve beds after years of use. Make sure your needs are in tandem with the specifications you are being sold, and if required, please ask your supplier to testify the oxygen output on an oxygen analyzer at the higher flow of 5 liters or 10 liters.

Servotech offers two models of oxygen concentrators, 5 Litre, which is immediately available, and, 10 Litre, which can be made available in 10 working days.

With so many new COVID-19 cases being reported every day, it’s critical that we not only stay safe but also use the correct tools if we do become ill. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, please contact a doctor right away and get a COVID-19 test. This is especially crucial if you have a chronic disease like COPD or any other type of chronic disease, as this can make any coronavirus infection more severe. You may or may not need hospitalization, depending on your specific disease, risk factors, and symptoms, but only a skilled physician can make that decision.

Because the COVID-19 virus is a respiratory infection, owning a high-quality portable oxygen concentrator will help you recover faster if you are diagnosed with it. Cough, fever, shortness of breath, and exhaustion are all common COVID-19 symptoms, which can be problematic for people who have COPD. While COPD does not raise your chances of catching the coronavirus, it does raise the intensity of your symptoms and the likelihood of consequences. The correct portable oxygen concentrator machine is not only important for managing COPD symptoms, but it can also aid with your COVID-19 rehabilitation.

Infection with the coronavirus can be life-threatening if you already have low oxygen levels, coughing/wheezing, tiredness, or shortness of breath. One of the many strategies doctors are employing to improve recovery results for high-risk patients is concentrated oxygen treatment. While recuperating from COVID-19, your doctor may advise you to utilize a portable oxygen concentrator. Fortunately, there are several wonderful concentrator devices available online that are lightweight, simple to use, and offer a therapeutic quantity of oxygen wherever you go.

Oxygen therapy is important for many patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or a comparable illness. Portable oxygen concentrators are becoming more widespread these days, and they’re popular because of how simple they are to operate. Portable concentrators, unlike typical oxygen tanks, are tiny, lightweight, and do not require constant replacement. Nevertheless, although these units are more convenient, they are still not considered the standard of care in COPD oxygen therapy, and hence may not be covered by health insurance.

But it doesn’t mean you should stop using those big, inconvenient oxygen tanks! Attempting to get your insurance provider to cover a portable oxygen concentrator instead is always a good idea. It might turn out to be the best decision you’ve ever made. Even if you have COPD, these lightweight devices can provide a level of freedom and mobility that can significantly improve your quality of life.

Make sure you have all of your paperwork in order to maximize your chances of being approved for a portable oxygen concentrator (POC). Collect your doctor’s prescription for a POC, as well as your relevant medical information, such as the severity of your disease, pulmonary test results, and specifics on your oxygen therapy needs.

If your claim is originally refused, save all of the documents in case you need to file an appeal. Make your case if you can by detailing all of the ways that a portable oxygen concentrator would be required to maintain your quality of life, including any employment obligations you may have. The more information you provide the better.

While we sleep, our breathing pattern alters. Some of us breathe primarily through our lips, and most of us breathe deeper when we sleep, whilst others breathe shallower. If you utilize oxygen therapy at night, your nocturnal oxygen solution may differ from what you use during the day for supplemental oxygen.

For some individuals, pulse dosage portable concentrators can be an efficient nightly alternative; nevertheless, to assure optimal blood oxygen levels while sleeping, a continuous-flow oxygen source is often recommended. A nightly sleep study to monitor your blood oxygen levels and breathing behaviors may be used by your doctor to identify your individual needs. Your physician can calculate exactly what flow setting you’ll require while sleeping based on this study and other tests, allowing you to choose your nightly oxygen machine accordingly.

There are various portable solutions to choose from in instances when a large stationary concentrator is not possible or when travel necessitates a tiny and lightweight nocturnal oxygen solution. Certain features of some portable oxygen devices make them better suitable for overnight use.

The best option for oxygen supply at home is an oxygen concentrator, which filters oxygen from the air around it. A concentrator, which is needed for people with respiratory problems, can supply oxygen for hours at a time and does not need to be replaced or refilled with anything. Once you learn how to use an oxygen concentrator correctly, you can even help others with it.

To use an oxygen concentrator, you must first understand what it is and what it does.

Oxygen Concentrator: What is it? And How it works?

An oxygen concentrator device extracts oxygen from the air and delivers it to users through a mask or cannula. The air we breathe is made up of about 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen, and the rest is made up of other gases. The oxygen concentrator performs by collecting ambient air and filtering nitrogen and other gases out. The oxygen is consumed and held in a cylinder for the patient to inhale.

When Should One Use It?

An Oxygen Concentrator should only be used when a person requires additional oxygen due to a low blood oxygen level. This is not something that should be self-diagnosed, but rather something that should be decided by a trained medical professional. Your blood oxygen levels will be monitored by a medical professional, who may use a Pulse Oximeter unit. If your SpO2, or Oxygen Saturation, is less than 95%, they can advise you to take supplemental oxygen. The doctor will often tell you how much and for how long you need to use supplemental oxygen. Even if supplemental oxygen has been prescribed, you must decide whether you need an oxygen concentrator or an oxygen cylinder.

Let’s now move on to the most important part of this blog, and one that captures your interest the most:

How to set it up and use it?

Step I

Place the concentrator 1 to 2 feet away from any walls or furniture. The oxygen concentrator, in addition to requiring space for air circulation, can become extremely hot, so keep it away from furnishings and furniture.

Step II

If a humidification bottle is recommended, connect it. If the oxygen flow rate is greater than 2-3 liters per minute, a humidifier is recommended by a doctor or medical professional (LPM). Then, insert the threaded cap on your humidification bottle into the oxygen concentrator’s socket. Carefully turn the bottle against the device until it is firmly fixed. Also, make sure that you fill either filtered or distilled water in the humidifier at all times.

Step III

The oxygen tubing should then be connected to the humidification bottle or an adapter. You’ll notice a port on the humidification bottle if you’re using one. This is where the oxygen tubing should be inserted. If you don’t have a humidification bottle, you’ll need to connect your tubes with an oxygen adaptor.

Step IV

An air inlet filter on the oxygen concentrator can eliminate particles and allergens from the air. It should be positioned on the machine’s side. You may need to remove or replace the filter for cleaning, so make sure it’s in place before turning on your device. The filter can be washed and dried once a week with warm water.

Step V

Before using the oxygen concentrator, give it at least 15-20 minutes to warm up. It takes some time for the oxygen concentrator to cycle through the proper air concentration. That means you’ll have to leave it turned on for a while before you can breathe the air it makes.

Step VI

Since the oxygen concentrator uses a substantial amount of power, it should be the only thing plugged into the outlet. You should not use an extension cord because it can cause short circuits.

Step VII

You will be able to hear the air being pumped loudly until the computer is turned on. Often double-check your device’s light indicators to ensure it’s in good working order.

Step VIII

You must first find the liter control knob or click on your oxygen concentrator before using it. It could be labeled with liters per minute (LPM) or levels like 1, 2, 3, and so on. This knob must be adjusted to the specified liters per minute. If you have any questions about the environment, you can consult your doctor or a medical professional.

Step IX

Check the tubing for any bends or kinks before breathing in oxygen. Any break in the tubing will result in a lack of supply. If you’re going to use a mask, make sure there aren’t any holes around the edges of it. Depending on the design of your mask, wrap the elastic attachment around your head or around your ears.

Step X

If you’re using a nasal cannula, make sure it’s adjusted upward into your nostrils for maximum oxygen delivery. The cannula’s prongs should each curl up into one nostril. Loop the tubes over the ears until the prongs are in place. Slide the tube adjuster up or down to adjust the tubes under your chin.

And, that’s pretty much all you need to know about oxygen concentrators. Ten easy steps, making this complex device, all the more easy!

When we breathe, oxygen passes through our respiratory system and into our bloodstream via our lungs and circulatory system. Oxygen is the second most abundant element in the earth’s atmosphere (air), and it makes living easier for humans and animals. Oxygen also aids burning, despite the fact that oxygen is a non-flammable gas. However, combustible compounds burn more rapidly in an oxygen-rich environment. While this does not render O2 hazardous in and of itself, it does suggest that oxygen users should exercise caution when near fire, sparks, or other combustible objects.

Given the growing use of oxygen support machines, it is only important to heed a few important things to make the right use of these devices. Portable oxygen concentrators give users a level of freedom, mobility, and independence that they wouldn’t have otherwise, by delivering oxygen–enriched air straight to the lungs. POCs (portable oxygen concentrators) are completely safe. However, some steps need be taken to ensure continuous safety, and if these precautions are followed, traveling by automobile or airline with a portable oxygen concentrator will be safe.

1. In the proximity of oxygen, avoid any open flames. This includes matches, cigarette lighters, candles, and any type of smoking. If someone wants to smoke while you’re using a portable oxygen concentrator, please ask them to do so outdoors or away from you and the machine. Oxygen is an inflammable gas. Therefore, be mindful of keeping a distance of at least two meters between your portable oxygen concentrator and any fire-inducing items. This includes things like gas stove tops and candles.
2. Other heat sources, such as portable electric or gas heaters, ovens, and stoves, should be avoided. Maintain a distance of at least five feet between such heat sources and POC oxygen sources.
3. Use water-based products instead of petroleum-based lotions or creams, or any other O2 flammable substance. Take particular care especially while showering or taking baths. It’s critical that your portable oxygen concentrator doesn’t get wet or exposed to moist air for your safety. However, depending on your unique requirements, you may need to shower or wash while utilizing your machine.
4. Smoking while on oxygen is risky and will almost certainly end in fatality. It is not permitted to smoke in the same room as the portable oxygen concentrator or any oxygen-carrying accessories. If you want to smoke, switch off the oxygen concentrator, remove your cannula, and move to another room. You must wait at least 10 minutes after turning off the portable oxygen concentrator before smoking if you are unable to leave the room.
5. When utilizing your portable oxygen concentrator, it’s critical to stay away from aerosol items. Hairsprays, body sprays, and even certain air fresheners fall under this category. Aerosols are extremely combustible.
6. Never use or store a portable oxygen concentrator in a poorly ventilated space, such as a closet, cabinet, or your car trunk. This can result in an oxygen-rich environment, which, although not making O2 combustible, can increase the danger of combustion.
7. Another thing to keep in mind while using a portable oxygen concentrator is the intake vents. Any blockage of the vents, whether it’s baggy clothing or a carry bag that’s been changed to an inappropriate location on the machine, can obstruct performance. It’s critical to keep an eye on this while you use your device on a daily basis.
8. Store oxygen cylinders in an upright, safe position away from any open flame, heat source, or direct sunlight in a well-ventilated location. Covering with a cloth or plastic is not recommended. Also, get your oxygen concentrator inspected and maintained on a regular basis, as directed by the manufacturer.
9. Always use a grounded electrical outlet when using an oxygen concentrator. Never use a power board or an extension cord. Close the valve and mark the cylinder as empty when the cylinder is almost empty. Do not mix full and empty cylinders in the same container.
10. The last piece of precaution is to make sure the device is clean and dry. Portable oxygen concentrators are just like other electronic gadgets. This indicates that they are very vulnerable to water damage. Because the concentrator has numerous sensitive electronic components, submerging it in water or allowing water to enter through any of the vents could permanently destroy it. Using a carrying case is the best way to keep your device dry.

Portable oxygen concentrators are, by far, the safest supplemental oxygen devices available. They’re light, have a small footprint, and are incredibly dependable. However, because they offer medical-grade oxygen, you need to take some precautions before using them.

The finest resources for you will be your oxygen manufacturer and user handbook. Because each portable oxygen concentrator works a little differently, it’s best to learn how it works before using it.