Answers To Common Questions About Oxygen Therapy

Many people need oxygen treatment to stay healthy. Oxygen therapy is fairly normal and can be a great way to restore your health and to get your body to where it needs to be. If you suspect that you might need oxygen therapy you might be wondering what that entails. Here are some common questions about the use of oxygen therapy.

Why Do People Need Oxygen Therapy?

It is no secret that oxygen is a vital part of life. If your body is deprived of oxygen you may need to supplement to be sure that you can function normally. Usually the reason you need oxygen therapy is if you have some sort of abnormality in your heart or lungs. Both the heart and the lungs are responsible for taking in oxygen and sending it throughout the body, so if you have failure of either of these organs, it is likely you will be on oxygen therapy.

What Are The Signs That I Need More Oxygen?

The signs that you should be looking for are easily fatigued, shortness of breath, and even memory loss or troubled thinking. A lack of oxygen will deprive the brain and you may find yourself forgetting periods of time or even blacking out.

These are the symptoms you should be looking for, however, the doctor will do a more conclusive test to determine if you need oxygen. The doctor can test your blood and measure the oxygen in the blood. This will determine if you need supplemental treatment.

If I Have To Do Oxygen Therapy, Will It Be Permanent?

The length of your treatment will completely depend on you. Someone who has terminal failure of their organs might need to use oxygen for the rest of their life. However, if the problem is caused from an illness that can be treated, you will probably only need it until the organs return to their normal function. The important thing is to never go off oxygen therapy unless your doctor advises it.

Are There Any Dangers With Oxygen Therapy?

Oxygen therapy is very safe, there are generally no risks involved. However, you should be careful with your tank. You shouldn't cook next to open flames, smoke, or be in the presence of electrical sparks during your treatment. This could case the tank to malfunction, or even worse, an explosion.

By understanding oxygen therapy you can determine if it is right for you.  

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