Healthy lungs have elasticized air sacs that deflate and inflate to make the process go smoothly.
If they’re not getting enough oxygen to cells in their body, they may need supplemental oxygen.
What Does Breathing With COPD Feel Like?
Illustration by Danie Drankwalter for Verywell Health
Breathing with COPD is more difficult because of the inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Many people say having COPD feels like breathing through a straw.
Coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and increased secretions are common.
Exertion tends to make breathing harder.Fatigueand muscle loss also can occur.
Oxygen Therapy Benefits
Oxygen therapy is supplemental oxygen introduced into the body.
Types of O2 Therapy for COPD
There are many forms of oxygen therapy designed for different uses.
A concentrator requires continuous power, for example, with cylinders used as a backup.
Stationary units can be used only at home or in a care facility.
Your healthcare provider will consider your O2 therapy needs as part of a treatment plan.
Using O2 Equipment
Experts recommend specific steps to ensure proper use of your equipment.
Oxygen is flammable and can introduce a fire risk.
Never smoke, use a gas stove, or be around flammable materials like grease when using oxygen.
Cleaning Your Equipment
Avoiding infection is important for people using oxygen therapy for COPD.
Costs also will depend on the pop in of oxygen therapy used.
Some people purchase equipment.
you’re free to buy a portable concentrator for $2,000 to $4,000.
People with COPD typically require the use of oxygen therapy when they reach a state known ashypoxia.
However, oxygen levels should not go above 100 mmHg (millimeters of mercury).
The chronic nature of the disease means that people with COPD often face an increased mortality rate.
Oxygen therapy can help tomanage their conditionand improve their quality of life.
Your healthcare provider can prescribe oxygen and the specific devices, levels, and times when it’s needed.
Keep in mind that additional medications and treatments often are needed.
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