4 Myths About Oxygen Therapy

Myths a widely held ideas but are untrue.  Unfortunately, oxygen therapy and relating topics are not resistant to these myths.  Many people have misconceptions about oxygen therapy. It’s hard to separate fact from fiction sometimes when crazy ideas are perpetuated.  But we’re here to walk you through it.  

We’ve busted 4 common myths about oxygen therapy.

Myth #1: Shortness of Breath is Always Relieved by Oxygen

Fact: It is true, that in some and many instances, oxygen therapy can relieve shortness of breath.  However, this is untrue for all cases.  Especially in cases of COPD patients with sedentary lifestyles.  Continued lack of activity will lead to atrophied muscles and will impair the body’s utilization of oxygen.  Shortness of breath can worsen when weak and tired muscles are put to use.  Supplemental oxygen cannot always relieve that. The incorporation of regular exercise can help break the cycle and is important in managing COPD.

Myth #2: Oxygen is Flammable

Fact: This myth is one of the most common misconceptions about oxygen therapy.  Oxygen is not flammable, it is combustible. Meaning things will burn more willingly in the presence of oxygen.  Precautions must be taken when using supplemental oxygen since it is combustible. Be sure to talk to your doctor and oxygen supplier for more information on oxygen safety prior to using oxygen therapy and an oxygen concentrator.

Myth #3: Oxygen Can Be Addictive

Fact:  Oxygen levels lessen in the blood and oxygen is not carried to cells and tissue when the lungs are not able to meet oxygen demand.  Using supplemental oxygen will increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and will meet the body’s demand for it.  Many believe that the more you incorporate supplemental oxygen, the sooner you will become addicted.  This is not true. Compulsive use, uncontrollable craving, loss of control, continued use, and withdrawals when not in use are what characterize addiction to substances (such as opioids and/or alcohol).  Participating in oxygen therapy does not create an increased need for supplemental oxygen. Of course, oxygen saturation will most likely drop when supplemental oxygen is not in use, but it doesn’t mean you are hooked or dependent on it.  All it means is that because of your condition, you are unable to get enough oxygen from breathing the air around you.  It takes a higher oxygen concentration level to get your body the oxygen it needs to be healthy and prevent future problems.

Myth #4: Oxygen Concentrators are Big, Bulky, Heavy, and Inconvenient

Fact:  Thankfully, with the advancements made with the oxygen concentrators of today, the hassle of large, inconvenient, and heavy concentrators are gone!  The Inogen One G4 portable oxygen concentrator is a mere 2.8 pounds. It is easily carried in a carrying case on your shoulder or in your hand. By doubling the weight, you more than double the battery life with the Inogen One G3.  Another option is the Zen-O Lite at just 5.5 pounds. There are many more options to choose from at O2 Assist. With these lightweight options, you’ll feel more like yourself than ever.