Effects of Supplemental Oxygen
Supplemental oxygen is used for people who suffer from certain medical conditions or diseases that reduce lung function. Oxygen is the basic element for sustenance of human life, and this natural element can become a lifesaving therapy in the form of supplemental oxygen. There are also instances where supplemental oxygen is used as a form of rejuvenation.
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Day-to-Day Effects
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The air one breathes usually is 21 percent oxygen; supplemental oxygen as prescribed by a doctor is 100-percent pure oxygen. Many people intake supplemental oxygen on a regular basis from the comfort of their home. This can aid them in living more independently in addition to making it easier and safer for them to enjoy day-to-day activities. Other benefits include lower instances of sleep disturbance owing to low oxygen levels since the respiratory and arousal abnormalities are reduced. This improves the quality of sleep.
Energy and Vitality
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People who are oxygen-starved feel very weak. Supplemental oxygen can bring back their energy levels, allowing them to feel active and healthy. Supplemental oxygen also increases their ability to endure physical exercise. Other effects include relief from headaches and nausea, prevention of heart failure for people with severe lung diseases and an improved immune system.
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Primary Pulmonary Hypertension (PPH)
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PPH is a disease wherein the blood vessels inside the lungs become narrower, resulting in high blood pressure. For such patients, supplemental oxygen loosens up the muscles in the arteries of the lungs. This aids in lowering the blood pressure, and the patient is able to breathe much more easily. There is a decrease in organ stress since the patient receives the required/prescribed levels of oxygen.
Oxygen Shortage
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Certain medical conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, anemia, pulmonary edema, congestive heart failure and cystic fibrosis can make it difficult for oxygen to reach the tissues of the body. If oxygen levels in the blood are too low and stay low for a long period, more serious issues can arise. Supplemental oxygen can get more oxygen to the blood, hence preventing any problems in the future. Supplying supplemental oxygen can also help victims of smoke inhalation and reduce symptoms like spasms and swelling in the lungs.
Side Effects
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A clinical study conducted by the Division of Cardiology at Pennsylvania State University's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center reveals that in patients with congestive heart failure, supplemental oxygen has a damaging effect on cardiac output, stroke volume and systemic vascular resistance. Oxygen is received by way of masks or tubes, however, the problem is that supplemental oxygen can dry the tissues of the nose due to constant contact. Hence it needs to be moistened to prevent any issues arising from the dryness.
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