One of the commonly preferred medical methods in respiratory problems is oxygen therapy. When there is a decrease in the amount of oxygen in the blood, breathing difficulties can also be observed. This can happen suddenly, or it can happen gradually. It is of great importance that oxygen therapy is administered by specialist physicians. Some patients continue their oxygen therapy at home under the supervision of physicians.
What is home oxygen therapy?
Oxygen therapy is applied in cases where the oxygen value in the blood is less than normal. Whether people need extra oxygen or not is determined by physicians who are experts in their field. Experts do not recommend the use of oxygen delivery devices without the approval of any doctor. An unbalanced intake of oxygen can cause more serious health problems. People who need oxygen therapy can continue at home after their treatment in the hospital is over. Some devices are used for home oxygen support. It is extremely important for people to act in accordance with the recommendations of the doctors while continuing the treatment at home.
How is oxygen therapy done at home?
Oxygen therapy is a life-saving form of treatment for people suffering from respiratory problems. Many different devices are used in oxygen therapy. It is mostly applied by giving pure oxygen to people who have shortness of breath through a mask. However, the type of treatment in the hospital may be different from the treatment in the home environment. While taking home oxygen therapy, it is necessary to pay attention to the doses recommended by the doctors.
In home oxygen therapy, machines or devices known as oxygen concentrators are used. There are different types of these devices. However, experts generally recommend easy portable oxygen devices to people who will receive oxygen at home. These are defined as household oxygen concentrators and are powered by electricity. All information about device use and frequency of use is determined by doctors.
What are the methods of getting oxygen therapy at home?
There are many ways to receive home oxygen therapy. Various diseases occur when the oxygen level in the blood decreases. If left untreated, damage to many organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys occurs. Home oxygen therapy is mostly used in cases where the amount of oxygen in the air is not sufficient and the oxygen level in the blood decreases. Among the methods of receiving oxygen therapy at home, the most commonly used methods are as follows:
- Low current conventional methods
- High current conventional methods
- Oxygen concentrators
There are some important points to be considered when using oxygen devices. The things to consider when using oxygen at home are as follows:
- It is necessary to check whether there is oxygen coming from the devices used for home oxygen therapy.
- It is important whether there is a leak in the connections between the cylinders used for oxygen and the oxygen source.
Although the oxygen device is working correctly, if there are situations such as headache, difficulty in breathing, and confusion, it is of great importance to consult a physician without wasting time.