What is Oxygen Therapy?

If you or a loved one has recently been prescribed oxygen therapy, it’s important to understand what it entails and how it can benefit your health. Oxygen therapy is a common treatment for individuals with respiratory conditions that affect their ability to breathe effectively. 

At Oxygen West, we are dedicated to helping you find the right solution for your health. In this article, we will explore the basics of oxygen therapy, who may require it, the different forms available, what to expect during treatment, the importance of adhering to oxygen therapy requirements, and tips for living well with oxygen therapy.

Understanding the Basics of Oxygen Therapy 

Oxygen therapy, often referred to as supplementary oxygen, is a crucial medical intervention for individuals experiencing difficulties with their breathing. This treatment involves inhaling oxygen from a device, such as a mask or nasal prongs, which significantly boosts the oxygen levels in the bloodstream. 

Predominantly utilised in managing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and cystic fibrosis, oxygen therapy aids in enhancing bodily functions by ensuring tissues receive adequate oxygen. This process is essential for those whose natural oxygen intake is insufficient due to respiratory issues. 

By elevating oxygen concentration in the blood, patients can experience relief from symptoms, enabling a more comfortable and active lifestyle. Embracing oxygen therapy can be a pivotal step towards better respiratory health and overall well-being. 

Who Requires Oxygen Therapy? 

One of the most asked questions about oxygen therapy is who stands to benefit from it the most? Essentially, oxygen therapy provides relief for individuals grappling with conditions that lead to low oxygen levels in their bloodstream – a state known as hypoxaemia. A common way to ascertain whether someone needs oxygen therapy is through an arterial blood gas analysis, a straightforward yet revealing test. 

Predominantly, people suffering with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, or the challenges of congestive heart failure find oxygen therapy to be a game-changer in managing their symptoms and enhancing their day-to-day lives. It offers a breath of fresh air, quite literally, to those who struggle with persistent shortness of breath and fatigue, providing them not just with physical relief but also a renewed zest for life. Engaging with this form of therapy can significantly uplift the quality of life, making every breath count a bit more for those who need it most. 

Different Forms of Oxygen Therapy 

Exploring the options for oxygen therapy can reveal a variety of solutions tailored to meet individual needs and lifestyles. Whether it’s for use at home, while out and about, or during travel, there’s a form of oxygen therapy that fits seamlessly into your life. At Oxygen West, we offer a range of options to accommodate various lifestyles and conditions. Our goal is to give our patients the best quality of life that’s possible. 

Compressed oxygen gas cylinders offer portability and ease, making them ideal for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. For individuals requiring a continuous, higher flow of oxygen, liquid oxygen systems present a practical solution, as they can deliver oxygen efficiently over longer periods. Then, there are oxygen concentrators, innovative devices designed to extract oxygen directly from the air around you, thus providing a limitless supply without the need for refills.  

Each of these systems has its own set of advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your specific oxygen therapy requirements, lifestyle, and personal preferences. The Oxygen West team can work with you to find the best solution for your needs and lifestyle. Understanding these options can empower you to make informed decisions about your oxygen therapy, ensuring you get the most out of this vital treatment. 

What to Expect During Oxygen Therapy 

Starting oxygen therapy can seem daunting at first, but knowing what to anticipate can help ease any concerns. As you commence treatment, a mask or nasal cannula—small tubes that rest just inside your nostrils—will be your channels for receiving oxygen.  

The specific flow rate, how much oxygen you receive per minute, and the duration of your therapy sessions will be meticulously tailored to your unique health requirements by your respiratory specialist. It’s important to stick closely to their guidance, ensuring the therapy works as intended. 

Throughout the course, you might need to make slight adjustments based on feedback from your body and conversations with your medical team. Remember, the goal of oxygen therapy is to support you in feeling better and living more vibrantly. While adjustments can be part of the process, they are steps on the path to optimal breathing and overall health. 

The Importance of Adhering to Oxygen Therapy Requirements 

Complying with your oxygen therapy guidelines is a cornerstone of ensuring the treatment’s success and safeguarding your health. Utilising your oxygen as directed, maintaining punctual appointments for check-ups, and keeping an eye on your oxygen levels at home are all integral parts of this journey. 

Neglecting the specified requirements could lead to a deterioration in your condition and an increase in health-related complications. It’s about embracing a routine that supports your therapy, a commitment that involves you, your loved ones, and your healthcare team working in harmony.  

This collaborative approach helps in adjusting the therapy as needed, based on your health’s progression and any new challenges that may arise. Remember, your active participation in adhering to oxygen therapy requirements is pivotal in achieving the maximum benefit from your treatment and enhancing your quality of life. 

Living Well with Oxygen Therapy 

Adapting to life with oxygen therapy can be a smooth transition, and with the right approach, it can significantly enhance your daily living.  

• Keep it maintained: It’s essential to maintain your oxygen equipment meticulously to ensure it functions optimally.  
• Stay well-hydrated: This is crucial as well, as it aids in keeping your respiratory system functioning smoothly.  
• Do gentle exercise: Whilst it’s necessary to steer clear of smoke and avoid environments where smoking is prevalent, embracing a routine that includes gentle exercise can also be beneficial.  
• Eat a balanced diet: Eating a diet full of nutrients supports your overall health and complements your therapy.  
• Communicate: Open communication with your healthcare team is key; never hesitate to share your experiences or express concerns. 

By adopting these practices, you can navigate life with oxygen therapy confidently, ensuring it adds value to your wellbeing and empowers you to lead a fulfilling life. 

Oxygen West: Experts in Oxygen Therapy Devices 

Our goal is to help you receive the treatment you need in the most supportive way. As a Western Australian-owned and operated family business specialising in oxygen concentrators. Our roots run deep in the healthcare industry, and we have strong relationships with leading sleep and respiratory physicians, allow us to provide the highest level of care and knowledge to our customers. 

If you’ve just been told you need oxygen therapy in Perth, WA, contact us, visit us instore or find out more on our website.