How to Use Oxygen for Emphysema

Treatment for emphysema comes in many forms depending on the severity of the disease, including steroid medications, antibiotics and oxygen. Oxygen therapy is increasingly being used outside of the hospital to improve the quality of life for people with emphysema. The use of oxygen for emphysema increases the amount of oxygen in the lungs and bloodstream so you will feel better, be able to do more and may even improve your sleep.

Instructions

1. See your doctor. Your doctor will order a blood test to determine what your oxygen levels are and then prescribe oxygen therapy to meet your needs. The prescription will specify how frequently you need to use oxygen and how much you need per minute (liters per minute).

2. Talk to your doctor to decide what type of oxygen source to use. Oxygen can either be produced by an oxygen concentrator in your home or come in the form of either tanks or cylinders. Oxygen in tanks comes in the form of liquid oxygen or as compressed oxygen gas. Tanks of oxygen gas come in various sizes. Liquid oxygen tanks weigh less and hold more oxygen than compressed gas tanks so they may be suitable for people with active lifestyles. Oxygen concentrators purify air to produce oxygen. Oxygen concentrators weigh between 30 and 50 lbs. but don't need to be refilled, they run on electricity and cost less than gas tanks and may also be more convenient. It may be best to use a combination of methods.

3. Decide on the oxygen delivery device. The two most common devices are a nasal cannula or an oxygen mask. Masks are generally used for children or for patients who require high levels of oxygen, and they fit over the nose and mouth. Most people use a nasal cannula, which is a thin tube with two prongs that fit inside the nostrils to deliver oxygen.

4. Contact your medical insurance company to find out whether it covers the cost of the oxygen therapy equipment and oxygen.

5. Contact the medical equipment and service company, (whom your doctor will refer you to) in order to arrange delivery of your oxygen therapy equipment. It will give you instructions and advise you on how to use and maintain your equipment safely.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're planning to travel, make plans to ensure you have adequate oxygen and inform the travel company that you will need to use oxygen. Contact the American Lung Association for further information (see Resources).

• Never change the flow of oxygen without your doctor's permission. Order more oxygen from your service provider in a timely manner. Never smoke or let anyone else smoke when using oxygen since oxygen is a fire hazard. Call your doctor immediately if you feel a shortness of breath, are confused or restless.

Resources

• American Lung Association