Oxygen concentrators are one of the primary treatments for those suffering from a chronic lack of oxygen. They are used to remove nitrogen from the air, effectively increasing the oxygen concentration in a patient’s breathing environment. These types of devices are essential for those who have COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and a variety of other pulmonary diseases.
There are two common types of oxygen concentrators available – stationary and portable. Both types are highly efficient and reduce the cost of oxygen therapy by eliminating the need for expensive liquid or gas supplemental oxygen.
Stationary oxygen concentrators are stationary devices that are usually placed in a single location. They are typically heavier than portable models and must be plugged into an electrical outlet to operate. These machines are excellent for providing constant therapeutic levels of oxygen and can serve multiple users in the same household.
The portable version of the oxygen concentrator is a self-contained machine that uses a battery. It is lighter in weight and can be moved from room-to-room or even taken with you when traveling. For individuals who are constantly on the go, a portable oxygen concentrator is the ideal choice. This type of device is also perfect for those who lack easy access to an electrical plug, such as when taking a road trip or camping.
Aside from being efficient and cost-effective, oxygen concentrators are designed for patient use in mind. All oxygen concentrators are designed with safety in mind, from built-in alarms that alert the user of potential problems to certification from Underwriters Laboratory (UL). Both stationary and portable oxygen concentrators come with user-friendly, intuitive features and provide an alternative to traditional oxygen tanks.
If you have been diagnosed with a chronic lung condition and believe you may benefit from an oxygen concentrator, please consult with your physician to find the best option for you.
