For every living organism on this planet, with the exception of a few, oxygen is a basic necessity. Once inhaled, this oxygen gets into the lungs, seeps into the bloodstream, and enters the cellular entities where it reacts with food particles to generate loads of energy-imparting molecules called ATP. Being this important, its constant supply is needed every second by every one of us. However, in patients with breathing difficulties associated with respiratory disorders, this simple process of taking in oxygen is hindered. In these cases, the conventional as well as novel methods of oxygen transfer, including the use of an oxygen concentrator, come in handy. Let us touch on this discussion in detail.
Frequency of Respiratory Disorders in the US
According to the American Lung Association, approximately 34 million people among the US population are presently living with some kind of chronic respiratory disease such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and COPD, among others. These patients are frequently in need of oxygen supplementation as extracting it naturally from the air is a tough job for them. If their oxygen levels fall below a certain point, medical issues like fatigue, headache, rapid heart rate, as well as bluish skin. Moreover, if this state of hypoxemia i.e. low oxygen level continues, more severe complications can also occur.
Conventional Methods of Oxygen Supplementation
Among the traditional oxygen delivery systems, oxygen tanks or cylinders are usually given preference. They deliver oxygen at a pre-set rate.
However, oxygen tanks have also been associated with limitations like the periodic need for refills as well as oxygen transfer at a lesser rate than that of an oxygen concentrator.
Moreover, these tanks, due to being heavy, are not portable. Keeping these issues in mind, newer options ought to be considered.
What is an Oxygen Concentrator?
An oxygen concentrator is an instrument that is used to supply oxygen to patients who require oxygen supplementation by artificial means.
The device works by pulling the air and filtering it to separate nitrogen from oxygen. This purified oxygen is then supplied to the patient via a thin tube connected to the nostrils.
Oxygen concentrators are both available in portable as well as stationary forms.
Advantages of Oxygen Concentrators
The following advantages can be gained from the use of oxygen concentrators:
• Oxygen concentrators provide a continuous supply of oxygen without the need for refills.
• The equipment, due to being portable, is designed to offer mobility and independence to the patients.
• Oxygen concentrators are known to reduce the risks associated with high-pressure oxygen tanks.
• The delivery of a tailored oxygen concentration is also possible based on a patient’s specific needs.
Characteristic Features of Oxygen Concentrators
Usually, all portable oxygen concentrators are affixed with lithium-ion batteries which are rechargeable. These are light in weight and come with features and technological advancements that have made these devices more efficient, user-friendly, and safe for patients. Some of these include the following options:
· EverFlo Oxygen Concentrators
EverFlo oxygen concentrators by Philips. It has an oxygen flow ranging between 0.5 to 5 liters. Moreover, the sound level is approximately 45 decibels along with an oxygen concentration capacity of 93%. It has a weight of 14 kg and average power consumption of 350 W. The product has a 3-year warranty period.
· Zen-O Portable Oxygen Concentrator by GCE
Zen-O oxygen concentrator is a product of GCE. It is portable and lightweight i.e. only 4.55 kg in weight with an oxygen delivery rate of 2 liters per minute. Its notable features include breath sensitivity which detects the patient’s oxygen demand and adjusts the supply accordingly.
· Rhythm Home Oxygen Concentrator
Rhythm home oxygen concentrator is a lightweight instrument, i.e. 33 lbs, with a continuous flow rate ranging from 0.5 to 5 liters per minute. The device is affixed with wheels which makes it easy to transport from one room to another.
It is high in efficiency, safe to use, and reliable in performance. The noise level is 39 decibels which makes it nearly inaudible. The range of oxygen concentration is between 91 to 96%.
The instrument has a 3-year warranty if used in an ideal operating environment i.e. between 41 to 104°F temperature and 0 to 95% humidity.
· Portable Home Oxygen Generator
This portable home oxygen generator has a concentration capacity of 30 to 90% along with a flow rate equal to 1 to 6 liters per minute. The system is equipped with a touch screen and LCD display to indicate the flow rate as well as other parameters.
With a 24-hour continuous charging capacity, this home generator and concentrator also has a feeble noise i.e. less than 45 decibels which makes it preferable in home settings. The device, being portable, can be used in a car for the purpose of air purification.
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Conclusion
Breathing is the most essential process for our survival. Every one of us takes our required quantity of it by extracting it from the air around us.
However, in patients with impaired respiratory systems, this practice becomes extremely difficult. As a management tool, oxygen delivery aids such as oxygen concentrators are employed. The device works by concentrating the oxygen from the air and supplying it to the patient’s body.
Being a convenient, safe, as well as economical option, these oxygen concentrators are the preferred choice in healthcare settings. Trusted suppliers like Health Supply 770 should be considered for making a purchase and enjoying the best buying experience.
Click to order: Portable Home Oxygen Generator
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.
