It wasn’t that long ago that patients who required regular oxygen therapy had to use big and bulky tanks that were heavy and hard to move around with. But nowadays you can purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, a device that creates your very own stable and a practically limitless supply of oxygen. These machines take oxygen out of the air, pass it through special filters, and then store it for later use.
If you feel bogged down by traditional oxygen therapy and tanks, then a lightweight and easy to carry portable oxygen concentration is just what you need. Here are some of the biggest benefits of using such a machine.
An Excellent Treatment for COPD
While COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is an incurable and progressive disease, patients can manage their symptoms successfully. Around 30 million Americans have COPD, according to the COPD Foundation. [1] Over time, patients with this illness tend to experience shortness of breath and oxygen. When it comes to that, they usually start oxygen therapy, and feel tied to their house because of the bulky tanks. Fortunately, portable oxygen concentrators are compact and don’t need refills while sometimes weighing only 5 lbs. They work on batteries and can be recharged with adapters.
Increased Mobility, Less Complicated Travel
If you require an oxygen tank to travel, you already know how hard it can be – and using planes is virtually impossible. On one hand, the changes in pressure can make breathing difficult for people with lung disease, but you also cannot bring oxygen tanks on board.
Relief comes from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) which now lets you use certain portable oxygen concentrators on flights, [2] but check with airlines first. Those that aren’t tied to a concentrator can check it with luggage or a carry-on, and those that need to use it all the time might be checked by the TSA.
Some Benefits Aren’t Obvious at First
A portable oxygen concentrator will greatly increase your mobility and let you enjoy all sorts of recreational and social outings. But using one of these devices is likely to offer other benefits that can reveal themselves only after you used them a few times. Namely, it can improve your sleep and help you wake up rested by giving you a steady supply of oxygen during the night. And when you wake up feeling refreshed, you can be more active which in itself will benefit your health and overall disposition.
How Much Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Cost?
The price of a portable oxygen concentrator depends on several factors, including its weight and how much oxygen it can store. With that said, you can expect to spend between $2,000 and $6,000 according to CostHelper. [3] Other than buying one outright, you can also rent a portable oxygen concentrator on a monthly basis.
Costs can be lower, or you might even get a portable oxygen concentrator for free if you need oxygen therapy or a steady supply of oxygen. You should check with your insurance company before purchase and make sure to do your own research to find the best deal available.