LIVING WELL WITH COPD
Using Oxygen
Over time, some people with COPD
need to use supplemental oxygen.
This:
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Can make your breathing easier
Enhances your quality of life
• Compressed gas oxygen,
which comes in steel or aluminum
containers in different sizes for
home use and traveling.
• Liquid oxygen, which changes
liquid into a breathable gas. (not
readily available)
• Oxygen concentrators, electrical
devices that remove nitrogen from
the air, concentrating the oxygen.
May help you live longer
Oxygen should be used
24 hours a day at rest
Oxygen can also be used with
physical activities and/or during
sleep
Oxygen is not addictive. Increased
use won’t make you need it more.
However, it is considered a medication.
Not all patients with COPD will need or
benefit from oxygen. For people with
COPD who don’t get enough oxygen
naturally, oxygen therapy can:
• Improve sleep, mood, and mental
alertness
• Better allow the body to conduct its
everyday functions
• Improve survival
Traveling With Oxygen
Air travel has restrictions
related to oxygen. You
cannot travel on an airplane
with an oxygen canister. You
must use either an airline-
supplied oxygen canister or
an FAA-certified portable
oxygen concentrator. Other
requirements may apply.
Check with your airline and/
or oxygen supplier at least
2 weeks before you travel.
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There are three types of oxygen:
If your doctor prescribes oxygen,
ask about:
• The oxygen flow rate or setting,
so you receive the right amount of
oxygen per minute of use
• When you should wear your
oxygen, such as:
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During activities
While sleeping
Continuously
Which type of oxygen equipment
best suits your lifestyle
You should NEVER SMOKE when you
are getting oxygen therapy. There is
increased fire hazard. You may harm
yourself or your surroundings.