You can take specific steps to simplify the challenges of living with a lung disease or respiratory disorder that requires supplemental oxygen. Oxygen therapy offers several advantages, and with the option of a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), you can breathe easier while enjoying your independence and mobility.
Some common conditions requiring supplemental oxygen include:
- COPD
- Lung cancer
- Asthma
- Flu
- COVID-19
An oxygen concentrator is a medical device designed to provide you with additional oxygen. If your oxygen levels fall too low due to a medical condition, your doctor may recommend one.
What are Portable Oxygen Concentrators?
A Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) is medical equipment that helps individuals with low blood oxygen levels. These devices can be powered by a battery or an electrical outlet, with many models including car adapters for use on the go.
POCs work by taking in air, cleaning it, and distributing concentrated oxygen. Air typically consists of 80% nitrogen and 20% oxygen. A POC filters the air, increasing oxygen concentration to 90–95%, while reducing nitrogen to 5–10%. This level of oxygen concentration is difficult to achieve without medical equipment, making POCs essential for those with respiratory needs.
How Does a POC Work?
A POC consists of several key components, including a compressor and sieve bed filters. Here's how it works:
- Compressor: Compresses and delivers filtered air to the concentrator.
- Sieve Bed Filters: Remove nitrogen from the air using Zeolite, a material that isolates nitrogen, allowing oxygen to flow into the product tank.
- Cooling System: Prevents the concentrator from overheating during use.
- Nasal Cannula: Delivers filtered oxygen directly to the user, enhancing oxygen absorption.
The process alternates between two sieve beds, ensuring a continuous supply of oxygen while nitrogen is safely expelled back into the environment.
Advantages of Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Portable oxygen concentrators provide several benefits compared to traditional oxygen tanks, including:
- Ease of Use: Most POCs feature digital displays and alarms, making them user-friendly. Alerts notify users of any issues.
- Improved Sleep: Consistent oxygen delivery helps prevent nocturnal desaturation, ensuring a better night's sleep for individuals with COPD.
- Independence and Mobility: POCs allow users to move freely and participate in daily activities without relying on others.
- Increased Energy: Continuous oxygen therapy helps maintain energy levels, enabling users to perform regular tasks like cooking and walking.
- Customization Options: POCs provide adjustable settings, offering oxygen delivery in both pulse-flow and continuous-flow modes.
Safety Measures for Using a POC
To use your POC safely:
- Avoid using it near open flames or while smoking.
- Operate the device in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
- Keep the vents unobstructed for optimal performance.
- Respond to alerts or beeping sounds promptly by consulting the user manual and ensuring proper oxygen flow.
Important: Only use POCs prescribed by a doctor. Over-the-counter oxygen concentrators are not FDA-approved and may lead to harmful health risks, such as insufficient oxygen or lung damage from excessive oxygen intake.