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How Much Do You Know about Oxygen Concentrator?

by BMEC HfH

What is an Oxygen concentrator?

Oxygen concentrator is used for providing Oxygen Therapy to patients who are facing breathing difficulties and when their oxygen levels in their body are too low.

oxygen concentrator

Product image is from Healing From Home Oxygen Concentrator 5L/10L - Stable Medical Grade.



Here are some symptoms to identify low oxygen levels in patients:

  • Bluish colouring in the face, lips, or nails
  • Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or a worsening cough
  • Restlessness and discomfort
  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Fast/racing pulse rate
 

Patients requiring Oxygen Concentrator

Patients with, but not limited to, the following medical conditions may require an oxygen concentrator:
  • Asthma
  • Lung cancer
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Flu
  • COVID-19
  • Other chronic illnesses which affects breathing
  

How does Oxygen Therapy help these patients?

Patients with breathing issues have lower oxygen levels in their bodies and oxygen therapy will help to reduce the strains on the heart, brain, and muscles.

Oxygen therapy is usually not necessary unless the SpO2 level of patient is less than 92%. Unless indicated by doctors, patients with SpO2 level more than 92% will not require oxygen therapy. Nurses can initiate oxygen therapy for the  patients if their SpO2 level breach the expected normal parameters of oxygen saturation.

This treatment will have no beneficial effects on healthy patients.


Are there any side effects to Oxygen Therapy?

Oxygen Therapy is generally safe, but it can cause some side effects. These include a dry or bloody nose, tiredness, and morning headaches. 

Also, there is a possibility of developing Oxygen Toxicity (Lung Damage) when too much extra (supplemental) oxygen is taken into the body.


Symptoms can include:

  • Coughing
  • Mild throat infection
  • Chest pain
  • Trouble breathing
  • Muscle twitching in face and hands
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea
 

Should I choose the 5L or 10L Oxygen Concentrator?

The main difference between these two concentrators is that one supplies 5L of oxygen per minute while the 10L supplies 10L of Oxygen per minute. Get diagnosis from your prescription or healthcare provider before purchasing one that suit your needs.
 


What are some of the things to note when using an Oxygen Concentrator?

When using an oxygen concentrator: 
  • Do not use the concentrator near an open flame or while smoking
  • Place the concentrator in an open space to reduce chances of device failure from overheating
  • Do not block any vents on the concentrator since it may impact device performance
  • Periodically check your device for any alarms to make sure you are getting enough oxygen
  

When should you purchase an Oxygen Concentrator?

Always get a proper prescription from your doctor or healthcare provider and they will advise you on the amount and length of Oxygen Therapy that you should take. If you have gotten a prescription and would like to purchase one, Healing From Home are currently selling the 5L and 10L Oxygen concentrator. You may drop us a message (on the right) or call us at 6305 2525 to enquire about the product.

 

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References

Commissioner, O. O. (n.d.). Pulse Oximeters and Oxygen Concentrators: What to Know. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/pulse-oximeters-and-oxygen-concentrators-what-know-about-home-oxygen-therapy

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