One of the most commonly expressed worries from people who have just been prescribed oxygen therapy is the concern that they will have to significantly change their lifestyle. Patients worry they will no longer be able to participate in their regular activities and social life.
However, when you are able to use a portable oxygen concentrator that need not be the case. In fact, in some cases, the opposite is true! Find out how portable oxygen concentrators can help you stay healthy and continue the activities you love, without holding you back.
How Can Portable Oxygen Concentrators Help You Lead a Normal Life?
Many people think that oxygen therapy will slow them down or keep them from living an active lifestyle. While this could be true if you have to use an oxygen tank delivery system or the old style of stationary oxygen concentrator, but new portable oxygen concentrator models are different.
With the new smaller, lightweight portable oxygen concentrators, you can easily carry your portable oxygen concentrator with you, allowing you to breathe easier while staying active. You can golf, go on a cruise, go to your book club, take a walk and even exercise, all while receiving your oxygen treatments.
Actually, doing these things might be easier for you after getting your portable oxygen concentrator because you will not struggle for breath the way you did before. Instead, you can enjoy increased oxygen intake, which will give you more energy and stamina for the activities you enjoy.
Adjusting to Your Healthy Life On the Go with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
It is true that you will have to make some minor adjustments to participate in your normal activities. However, you can go out just about anywhere—including trains, planes and cars. You will simply need to make sure that you have adequate charged battery life for any outings, or access to a DC or AC power source to recharge your battery as needed. Make sure you are clear on how long your battery typically lasts on your regular flow rate and plan accordingly.
You will also need to make sure that you have the appropriate carrying accessories for your portable oxygen concentrator so that you can do whatever you need as comfortably as possible. Some patients prefer a backpack for activities like horseback riding, walking or certain sports, while others prefer a carrying bag that slings over your shoulder or a hip bag around your waist.
Many portable oxygen concentrators can also be used with a simple strap. You might also consider how you could adjust your nasal cannula to be as comfortable as possible for the activity you want to participate in. In some situations, like having lunch with a friend or going shopping, very few adjustments will need to be made. But if you will be doing something like golfing or exercising at the gym, make sure everything is adjusted to keep you comfortable and breathing well.
How Do Portable Oxygen Concentrators Improve Your Health Overall?
Supplemental oxygen provides numerous health benefits, but portable oxygen concentrators mean you can reap those benefits on the go.
Here are the kinds of improvements you can enjoy in your life once you begin using a portable oxygen concentrator.
- A more restful night’s sleep
- Improved mental alertness and cognition
- Improved mood and self-esteem
- Improved ability to travel
- Increased exercise tolerance, so you can exercise longer and with greater intensity
- Increased stamina to complete tasks
- Increased energy throughout the day
It is clear that oxygen therapy offers incredible health advantages, including increased life expectancy. Factor in the ability to enjoy those advantages at home, as well as when you are out and about, and it is not hard to see why doctors and patients opt for portable oxygen concentrators to help provide supplemental oxygen whenever it is needed.
Ask your doctor whether a portable oxygen concentrator can help improve your breathing and your health. Then, contact us to find out how the innovation of small portable oxygen concentrators can help you live your life to the fullest.
Get out there and live the way you want, and get the oxygen you need to breathe better!
Source: Inogen