Oxygen therapy, also known as supplemental oxygen therapy, is a medical treatment that helps increase blood oxygen levels. In many cases, this is a vital part of the medical procedure. Examples of acute symptoms for oxygen therapy include carbon monoxide toxicity, hypoxemia, cluster headache, and pulmonary embolism. Prophylactically, it is used to control blood oxygen levels during the start of anesthesia. This method is used to treat anaemia and hypertension.
Patients receive oxygen therapy when their oxygen levels are too low or too high. This is typically necessary in situations where there are complications. People with normal levels of oxygen should be screened and have other treatments. The most common way to monitor oxygen therapy is with an oximeter attached to a finger. An artery-based test will measure the amount of oxygen in the blood.During oxygen therapy, the patient wears a mask and nasal cannula. A cannula has two prongs and fits into the nostrils. If the blood pressure of a patient is too high, they may need to use a mask. If a patient has a high SaO2, they may qualify for supplemental oxygen. When the blood pressure is too low, the patient may want to stop the oxygen, and when the breathing is too fast, the patient may need more frequent sessions of supplemental oxygen.
Patients with COPD can benefit from oxygen therapy. It increases their lifespan and reduces their heart’s workload. Portable units are also available for long-term use. It is easy to move around while wearing a mask. A chronic lung infection can cause the alveoli to become very inflamed, blocking the passage of oxygen into the bloodstream. When the breathing of a patient is too fast, it can reduce the quality of life of the patient. With this treatment, one can breathe much easier and reduce the burden on the heart.
Some people may be allergic to the oxygen. It’s not safe for the body to receive the oxygen through the nose. There are many side effects associated with oxygen therapy. The body’s immune system may be compromised. A patient can experience morning headaches and a bloody nose. Most people can receive oxygen therapy in a multiperson oxygen room. This type of oxygen room looks like a large hospital room with several beds and a few seats. The patient can sit in a wheelchair, lie on a bed, or even lie down. In both cases, the benefits of the treatment are the same, although the treatment environment may be a bit more uncomfortable. A patient can receive oxygen therapy at home.
In some cases, supplemental oxygen may improve the bodily functions. It can be particularly beneficial in situations of emergency, such as heart attack or stroke, or it can be used as a way to improve sleep. Some patients may also require a portable oxygen unit for long-term therapy. In some cases, this is a viable option if a patient needs to move around during the day.
