The 12 things every home oxygen user should know

People with low blood oxygen levels may benefit from home oxygen therapy to help them to feel more energetic, making everyday life easier.

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It is important to have an oxygen prescription from your health professional to make sure you are using the correct amount of oxygen for maximum benefit.

If you have been prescribed home oxygen here are 12 tips which every home oxygen user should know:

1. Oxygen therapy can help. Some people with lung diseases do not get enough oxygen into their blood. Low levels of blood oxygen mean that vital organs are being deprived of oxygen and this can cause damage over time. Blood tests are used to confirm if this is the case. Home oxygen therapy can help those with confirmed low blood oxygen by ensuring enough oxygen gets to vital organs. In some cases, home oxygen therapy can also make everyday life easier and more enjoyable.
2. Regular medical reviews are vital. It is important to have your oxygen prescription checked by a respiratory specialist at least once a year. Or, if you feel your condition has changed, make an appointment to see your doctor earlier. Do not adjust your oxygen flow rate on your own.
3. Oxygen does not always relieve breathlessness. There are many reasons why people have trouble breathing. Home oxygen therapy may relieve shortness of breath for some people, but for many it does not. Sometimes you need a combination of therapies to help relieve breathlessness. Ask your doctor, respiratory nurse or physiotherapist to fully explain the benefits you can expect from oxygen.
4. Oxygen is not addictive. Home oxygen therapy is not addictive and it will not weaken your lungs. You will get maximum benefit by using oxygen for the amount of time prescribed by your doctor.
5. There is a range of oxygen equipment available. There are two main types of oxygen equipment used in Australia. The most common is the oxygen concentrator which filters nitrogen out of the air to deliver almost pure oxygen. Gas cylinders filled with oxygen are also widely used and come in a range of different sizes. The smaller cylinders are light enough to take with you when leaving the house and often go by the name portable oxygen cylinders.
6. Some oxygen equipment is funded. Many home oxygen users will qualify for government funded equipment. However, qualifying rules are different in every state. If you need extra equipment, you can purchase or hire it direct from an oxygen supplier. Ask your doctor or a member of your healthcare team for help in working out the equipment that is best for you. A series of helpful practical support tools have been developed to support this booklet. They include equipment checklists and can be found online at: https://lungfoundation.com.au/patient-support/living-with-a-lung-condition/oxygen/
7. Oxygen is safe to use but can make things burn more intensely. Do not put yourself or your oxygen equipment near any sources of extreme heat, flames, or devices which could cause a spark, including a lit cigarette or e-cigarette. A study in the US has shown that smoking is by far the largest cause of serious burns in people using home oxygen.
8. Continue on with everyday life. Although it may take a while to get used to your oxygen equipment, try to continue with your normal routines as much as possible. Many people do not need to use their oxygen during trips outside the home. For those who do, feelings of self-consciousness about using oxygen equipment in public are usually short lived. Once your confidence improves, the benefits should start to outweigh any downsides.
9. Avoid smoking and being around smokers. Cigarette smoke is very damaging to the lungs. Quitting smoking is the single most effective thing you can do to help your condition. It is also important to avoid other people’s cigarette smoke.
10. Keeping active is good for your health. Regular physical activity is very important for those with lung disease to help you perform activities of daily living more easily. Activity does not need to be strenuous. Good activities include walking the dog, an outing, or even just doing jobs around the house. A pulmonary rehabilitation program can also teach you how to exercise more easily. For information on a program near you, visit https://lungfoundation.com.au/pulmonary-rehabilitation-programs-2/ or our freecall Information and Support Centre on 654 301.
11. Travelling with oxygen equipment is possible and requires planning. Some of the things to check before booking a trip are: how to correctly transport your equipment; whether you can use your portable oxygen during the journey; and how to arrange an oxygen supply at your destination. You may also need a letter from your doctor stating that you are fit to travel.
12. Plan what to do in an emergency, such as a power blackout. The most important thing to remember is to try to remain calm and not panic. Although losing power will be annoying, most oxygen users (even those on oxygen for 18 hours a day or more) are safe without their oxygen supply for many hours, if they rest. Call an ambulance if you are in need of urgent assistance.

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Your Frequently Asked Questions About Oxygen Concentrators, Answered

Wondering how often to change the water in an oxygen concentrator? Need a refresher on how your concentrator works? If you’re curious to learn more about oxygen concentrators, this FAQ holds answers to some of your most common questions.

Does an oxygen concentrator produce pure oxygen?

Oxygen concentrators work by taking in the surrounding air and delivering oxygen that is made up of 90-95% pure oxygen and 5-10% nitrogen.

How long do portable oxygen concentrators last?

Oxygen machines generally last around five years. The lifespan is dependent on how often they are used, care and maintenance, and the concentrator model.

Do oxygen concentrators run out of oxygen?

No. Unlike oxygen cylinders, concentrators do not have a finite amount of oxygen. As long as the concentrator has power, it will continue to provide oxygen.

How much does an oxygen concentrator cost?

That depends on the type and model of the concentrator. Personal portable models often cost thousands of dollars, while used concentrators often have a reduced price. While this may seem a lot to pay upfront, remember that liquid oxygen and even compressed oxygen tank refills and maintenance will quickly add up.

Do I need a prescription to buy an oxygen concentrator?

Yes. You must have a valid prescription from a doctor or specialist for oxygen therapy to buy a device that produces medical-grade oxygen.

Are oxygen concentrators flammable?

No. Oxygen itself is not flammable but it can cause other items or materials to ignite. Always use your oxygen concentrator safely and follow the proper handling procedures, including keeping your concentrator away from open flames and other heat sources.

Can oxygen concentrators run on inverters?

Yes. However, you must choose the right one, as not all inverters are compatible with or provide the power necessary to safely use an oxygen concentrator.

Do oxygen concentrators use a lot of electricity?

Yes. Most oxygen concentrators use roughly the same amount of electricity as a refrigerator. The average annual cost of running your oxygen concentrator is around $400 per year, though this varies with different models, flow rates, and other factors.

Do oxygen concentrators have battery backup?

Oxygen concentrators must have access to electricity to work. Keep your concentrator plugged into an outlet but have a generator or backup battery handy in the event of a power outage.

Can I take my oxygen concentrator on a plane?

Portable oxygen concentrators are generally allowed on planes as long as it is FAA-approved, though you need to let the airline know that you require oxygen before your flight.

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Can I use my home oxygen concentrator in my car?

While most oxygen concentrators require a high amount of energy and cannot be used in a vehicle, you may be able to use a portable oxygen concentrator instead for car rides. Be sure to take any necessary safety precautions when travelling with oxygen.

Can you sleep with a portable oxygen concentrator?

Yes. Like CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators are set up to allow for continual use.

Can I use an oxygen concentrator continuously?

Yes. Patients who require oxygen use throughout the day and night can safely use high-quality concentrators for all of their activities.

Do you need a humidifier with an oxygen concentrator?

No. You can use an oxygen concentrator without water. However, while oxygen humidifier bottles are not required, they will make oxygen delivery more comfortable.

Does insurance cover portable oxygen concentrators?

That depends on your health insurance. Insurance does cover portable oxygen concentrators but that doesn’t guarantee coverage. For example, Medicare covers oxygen equipment but may require extra fees for portable concentrators. Be sure to talk to your insurance provider for more information before purchasing a concentrator.

What is the quietest home oxygen concentrator?

Everflo concentrators are among the quietest concentrators on the market. Several other brands and models are equally silent.

What is the lightest portable oxygen concentrator?

If weight is an issue for you, there are plenty of light oxygen concentrators available on the market. Inogen currently makes one of the smallest models available, a portable concentrator that weighs only 1.5kg.

How do I take care of my oxygen concentrator?

Concentrators require proper care and maintenance. To provide this, always unplug the concentrator when not in use and keep the concentrator clean. Replace things like cannula and tubing regularly.

How often to change a filter on an oxygen concentrator

Filters should be changed one to two times a year. If you live in a particularly dusty area, you may need to change your filter more regularly.

When to change the water in the reservoir

Change the water in your humidifier bottle every day, being sure to use only distilled water.

How to reset an oxygen concentrator

If you need to reset your oxygen concentrator, first turn the equipment off and unplug it from its power source. Take the battery pack out and allow the concentrator to sit for at least half an hour. Then, reassemble the concentrator and turn it back on.

What does a red light mean on an oxygen concentrator?

A red light means that your concentrator is experiencing power problems, such as an unplugged or damaged cord.

What does an orange light mean on an oxygen concentrator?

An orange light can indicate that your concentrator needs service.

What does a yellow light mean on an oxygen concentrator?

A yellow light means that there is a problem with the oxygen flow or oxygen purity. You may continue to use the device but should ensure there is a backup oxygen source ready for use nearby.

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