New Options in Home Oxygen Therapy Keep Patients on the Go

Article submitted by Joe O'Neal with O2Neal Medical, Inc.
For more information, he can be reached at 205-989-9902.

Oxygen therapy is a course of treatment that plays a vital role in the care of persons who suffer from lung disease. Today, the options available to home oxygen users has never been better. Patients should explore these options in order to maximize lifestyle and promote activity.

Many patients who use the basic oxygen concentrators benefit from "self-fill" cylinder systems. These systems connect to the concentrator, and via a compressor, refill aluminum oxygen cylinders. This virtually eliminates deliveries from the homecare provider. And, because the cylinders are small and lightweight, free the patient to pursue outside activities.

Likewise, liquid oxygen systems are very popular. Because of their even lighter weight, portable liquid oxygen is an alternative to cylinder oxygen. Liquid systems consist of a stationary reservoir from which the patient refills the portable. The portable units weigh as little as five pounds and are great for "around town" portability. Liquid oxygen is not the ideal travel solution as the reservoirs are heavy and liquid oxygen naturally evaporates if not used. For travel purposes, a portable oxygen concentrator may be the solution.

Portable oxygen concentrators (POC's) work similarly to the basic concentrator and only weigh nine to ten pounds. POC's are powered by batteries, household electricity or a car adapter. They can be a solution for patients who travel frequently, are employed, or do not want a system that requires refilling. Some models of POC's are even cleared by the FAA for in-flight use.

It is imperative that each patient's clinical history and individual lifestyle needs be addressed before making a decision as to which system to use. By working with physicians and the homecare provider, many of the frustrating limitations posed by oxygen therapy can be a thing of the past!