Supplemental oxygen therapy is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions that cause low blood oxygen levels. Oxygen therapy helps improve oxygen saturation, reduce symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, and prevent complications related to hypoxia. Whether required short-term or long-term, the therapy must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Our portable oxygen concentrators are designed to support patients across multiple health conditions with safe, efficient oxygen delivery.
Chronic Lung Diseases
Many long-term respiratory conditions require consistent oxygen therapy to maintain proper oxygen levels in the blood:
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease): A progressive condition that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Oxygen therapy reduces breathlessness and improves energy levels.
- Pulmonary Fibrosis: Causes scarring of lung tissue, making it difficult to transfer oxygen to the blood. Supplemental oxygen can improve activity tolerance and sleep quality.
- Cystic Fibrosis: Leads to mucus buildup in the lungs and chronic infections. Oxygen therapy can be used during exacerbations or in later stages to maintain oxygenation.
- Severe Asthma: During asthma attacks, airflow is restricted, and blood oxygen levels may fall. Oxygen therapy helps stabilize the patient until the airway opens up again.
Acute and Infectious Conditions
Short-term oxygen therapy is often prescribed for acute illnesses that interfere with lung function:
- Pneumonia: This lung infection can cause inflammation and fluid buildup, impairing oxygen exchange. Oxygen therapy helps relieve respiratory distress and support recovery.
- COVID-19: Many patients with moderate to severe COVID-19 experience hypoxia. Supplemental oxygen has been a standard component of treatment both in hospitals and at home.
- Pulmonary Embolism: A blood clot in the lungs can limit oxygen flow and lead to hypoxia. Oxygen is used to stabilize oxygen levels while treating the underlying clot.
- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): A critical condition causing widespread inflammation in the lungs. High-concentration oxygen or ventilator support may be required.
Cardiovascular and Sleep Disorders
Oxygen therapy is not limited to lung disease. It also supports patients with certain heart and sleep-related disorders:
- Late-Stage Heart Failure: In advanced cases, poor circulation and fluid buildup can lead to low oxygen levels. Supplemental oxygen improves comfort and reduces the heart’s workload.
- Sleep Apnea: Oxygen therapy may be combined with CPAP in some patients to prevent drops in oxygen during sleep. It is especially useful when oxygen desaturation is a concern.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Some heart conditions can reduce the oxygen content of blood. Oxygen therapy helps increase arterial oxygen saturation in these cases.
Situational and Postoperative Use
There are additional scenarios where oxygen therapy may be prescribed temporarily:
- Post-Surgical Recovery: After anesthesia and surgery, patients may experience decreased lung function. Oxygen is often given until normal breathing is restored.
- Anemia-Related Hypoxia: In severe anemia, oxygen therapy can help maintain tissue oxygenation while treating the underlying cause.
- Altitude Sickness: High altitudes can reduce oxygen availability in the air. Oxygen concentrators are sometimes used during travel to prevent or manage altitude-related symptoms.
- Cluster Headaches: Some headache specialists prescribe high-flow oxygen as an abortive treatment for these extremely painful attacks.
Experience The Fullness Of Life Again
Supplemental oxygen therapy is used to manage a wide range of medical conditions—from chronic lung diseases to acute infections and cardiovascular issues. The goal is always to maintain adequate oxygen levels, reduce symptoms, and prevent long-term complications. At Belluscura, we offer portable oxygen concentrators designed to support patients across all these conditions. Contact us to learn more about how our oxygen therapy solutions can help you or your patients breathe easier every day.
