oxygen therapy treatment
Breathing problems can seriously impact your quality of life, making even the simplest tasks feel exhausting. Whether caused by chronic conditions like COPD or acute issues such as pneumonia, oxygen therapy treatment is a proven and effective way to restore proper oxygen levels in the blood. If you’re starting this treatment, you might be wondering: what happens during oxygen therapy?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from the initial consultation to the day-to-day experience—so you know exactly what to expect during oxygen therapy for breathing problems.
Understanding Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy is a medical treatment that provides extra oxygen to people who can’t get enough through normal breathing. It is commonly used for those with conditions that affect lung function and oxygen absorption, including:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Pneumonia
- Severe asthma
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Heart failure
- COVID-19-related respiratory complications
- Sleep apnea (with supplemental oxygen)
The goal of oxygen therapy is to maintain healthy blood oxygen levels (SpO2), typically between 95% and 100%.
When Is Oxygen Therapy Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend oxygen therapy after evaluating your symptoms and oxygen levels. The process usually includes:
- Pulse oximetry: A simple test that measures the oxygen saturation of your blood using a clip on your finger.
- Arterial blood gas (ABG) test: A more precise method that measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels directly from your blood.
- Lung function tests: These evaluate how well your lungs move air in and out.
If your blood oxygen levels are consistently low (often below 88–90%), you may be prescribed oxygen therapy either temporarily or long-term.
Preparing for Oxygen Therapy
Before beginning treatment, your healthcare provider will:
- Discuss your medical history and current symptoms.
- Determine the correct oxygen flow rate, usually measured in liters per minute (LPM).
- Select the best delivery device, such as a nasal cannula or face mask.
- Explain how and when to use your equipment—whether continuously, during activity, or while sleeping.
You may also be introduced to portable oxygen systems if you need oxygen therapy on the go.
What Happens During Oxygen Therapy?
The experience of oxygen therapy depends on whether you are receiving it in a hospital, clinic, or at home. Here’s what to expect in each setting:
1. Hospital-Based Oxygen Therapy
If you’re hospitalized for an acute respiratory issue, you may receive oxygen therapy immediately. Here’s how it works:
- Nasal cannulas or oxygen masks are applied.
- Oxygen is administered through a wall unit or portable tank.
- Your oxygen levels are continuously monitored using a pulse oximeter.
- Nurses and respiratory therapists adjust flow rates as needed.
This treatment is typically part of a broader care plan and may continue until your oxygen saturation stabilizes.
2. Home Oxygen Therapy
If you have a chronic condition, your doctor may prescribe long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) for home use. Here’s what to expect:
Equipment You’ll Use:
- Oxygen concentrator – pulls oxygen from the air and delivers it through tubing.
- Compressed gas cylinder – pre-filled with oxygen.
- Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) – battery-operated for mobility.
- Liquid oxygen tanks – compact and ideal for those with high flow needs.
How It Works at Home:
- A nasal cannula is inserted into your nostrils and connected to the oxygen source.
- You’ll breathe normally while receiving supplemental oxygen.
- Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend continuous or intermittent use.
3. Sleep Oxygen Therapy
Some individuals require oxygen therapy during sleep due to nighttime drops in oxygen levels or conditions like obstructive sleep apnea. This is often administered using:
- CPAP or BiPAP machines with oxygen integration
- A low-flow oxygen concentrator running overnight
Patients report improved sleep quality, reduced morning headaches, and more energy during the day.
What Does Oxygen Therapy Feel Like?
Oxygen therapy is non-invasive and painless. Most patients adapt quickly to breathing with a nasal cannula or face mask. Here’s how it typically feels:
- Normal breathing with a cool airflow sensation through the nostrils.
- A slight tickle or dryness in the nose (a humidifier can help).
- A feeling of improved energy and less shortness of breath within hours or days.
Monitoring and Adjustments
Your doctor will provide regular checkups to:
- Monitor your oxygen saturation
- Adjust your flow rate if needed
- Inspect your lungs via imaging or function tests
- Evaluate your symptoms and response to therapy
Most home oxygen equipment includes built-in oxygen monitors or flow meters so you can track your usage.
Possible Side Effects of Oxygen Therapy
While generally safe, oxygen therapy can come with mild side effects if not properly managed:
- Dry or bloody nose
- Skin irritation around the nostrils or ears
- Fatigue if oxygen flow is too low or too high
- Oxygen toxicity (rare, but possible at high concentrations)
To minimize issues, use saline nasal spray, adjust cannula placement, and follow your prescription closely.
Oxygen Therapy Safety Tips
Oxygen supports life—but it also supports fire. Keep these safety precautions in mind:
- No smoking around oxygen equipment
- Keep devices at least 5 feet away from heat sources
- Avoid flammable products, such as petroleum-based lotions
- Secure tanks properly to avoid tipping or damage
- Turn off devices when not in use (unless prescribed for continuous use)
Lifestyle Tips While on Oxygen Therapy
Adapting to life with oxygen therapy may take time, but it’s manageable with the right habits:
- Stay active with a portable oxygen tank if approved by your doctor.
- Eat a healthy diet to maintain energy.
- Practice breathing exercises to strengthen your lungs.
- Join a support group for emotional support and lifestyle tips.
- Travel smart by notifying your airline or destination ahead of time.
How Long Will You Need Oxygen Therapy?
The duration of oxygen therapy varies:
- Short-term use: For recovery from illness or surgery.
- Long-term use: For chronic diseases like COPD or pulmonary fibrosis.
- Your doctor will determine the timeline based on your oxygen levels, lung function, and overall progress.
Conclusion
Oxygen therapy is a powerful tool in the fight against breathing problems. By delivering life-sustaining oxygen directly to your lungs, it helps restore energy, reduce symptoms, and improve your quality of life. Knowing what to expect during oxygen therapy helps you feel confident and prepared every step of the way.
Whether at home, during sleep, or while recovering in a hospital, this treatment can be a game-changer for those struggling with respiratory challenges. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and maintain your equipment properly to get the best results from your oxygen therapy journey.
