Oxygen therapy has evolved to the point where the oxygen user should not only be getting the oxygen they need to breathe, but the freedom and independence to do more activities, travel, and find happiness in everyday comforts. The demand for oxygen to be user friendly, portable, and noninvasive is hugely due to the fact that every year, about 1.5 million patients in the United States utilize long term oxygen therapy.

However, not every oxygen device can give patients the freedom they deserve. In fact, many oxygen devices tether its user to their home, making travel impossible and exercise unbearable. We are lucky enough to live in an age of innovation and growth, oxygen therapy is no exception. The technology that is used to design and manufacture modern oxygen devices has improved drastically and has come a long way from the heavy and bulky oxygen reservoirs used in the past.

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Shopping for oxygen

It is important to note, that with the growth and demand for new forms of oxygen technology, came a lot of cheaply made replicas and non-licensed distributors selling malfunctioning oxygen machines. It is important for people shopping for oxygen therapy devices to speak with their doctors and find the most trusted oxygen brands and suppliers that they can work with.

If you are looking into buying your first or a new oxygen device, it is not only important to do your research, but you also should not go with the cheapest option you find on Google. Your oxygen device is going to be your trusty companion all day and all night for the rest of your life, so making sure you get the right device for your oxygen needs that also fits into your lifestyle is essential for your wellbeing.

In this article we talk about a number of aspects surrounding oxygen therapy:

• We look at the evolution of oxygen
• Understanding flow rates
• We will go over your oxygen therapy options
• We will give you a list of the most trusted names in oxygen manufacturing companies
• We will discuss our best selling portable oxygen concentrators
• How to make the most of your oxygen therapy

Evolution of Oxygen Devices

Long term oxygen therapy (LTOT) is prescribed to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other chronic lung diseases. LTOT increases survival and improves the quality of life of users with hypoxia, it can be very dangerous if used incorrectly, which is why oxygen is prescribed to patients by their doctors after taking a series of pulmonary function tests.

In the beginning, pressurized cylinders were the only available option for long term oxygen therapy. Then in 1965, the first home based liquid oxygen system was invented which gave the oxygen user both an immobile and portable oxygen system. This presented a great advantage, where the oxygen user finally had the ability to refill their portable liquid oxygen system and their smaller portable system whenever needed.

In 1973 home oxygen concentrators became readily available, these devices operated by filtering nitrogen from the air and producing medical grade oxygen. Oxygen concentrators provided an unlimited supply of oxygen, and it ran off of electricity. While this oxygen system was safe and efficient it was stationary, and tethered its users to their home where there was electricity.

Today, there are combinations of oxygen devices:

1. Compressed gas canisters
2. Liquid oxygen tanks
3. Concentrators
4. Liquid oxygen portable canisters
5. Battery operated portable oxygen concentrator

Every home oxygen system has a different performance characteristic, with its own set of capabilities and applications. Your doctor should be aware of product variability in performance when identifying specific systems that would work for you.

Your Oxygen Therapy Options

There are so many home oxygen therapy options to choose from that to the point where it is notoriously difficult to know what equipment is right for you, what is available and the capabilities and drawbacks of each device.

So while your doctor will typically prescribe you a flow rate and frequency for home oxygen therapy based on the results of your pulmonary function, the oxygen provider is expected to supply the necessary equipment based on your prescription and recommendations from your doctor. Therefore, it should be evident that it is important to work with the most trustworthy oxygen providers that supply the most trusted names in oxygen manufacturing.

Flow rates

At one point in time, there were only continuous flow oxygen devices, until intermittent-flow devices were introduced in 1983. The continuous flow devices distribute the oxygen at a consistent rate, even while you exhale. Intermitted-flow devices were created to conserve the oxygen that is wasted while exhaling. Intermittent-flow devices only admit oxygen when the user inhales, and it will pause during the exhale.

Both continuous flow devices and intermittent-flow also known as pulse flow devices, are still used today and the flow rate you use will depend on your oxygen requirements that will be established by your doctor. From there it will be the responsibility of your oxygen supplier to adhere to your oxygen requirements and match you with a device that will meet these needs.

There are three main forms of home oxygen therapy that offer both continuous and pulse flow operations listed in the following sections.

Oxygen gas

Oxygen gas can be stored in a portable tank also known as compressed gas systems. You would use a larger stationary concentrator while you are at home, and you would have a smaller oxygen tank that can be taken with you outside the home.

The portable oxygen tanks are very small and only deliver oxygen in pulses, not continuously in order to save oxygen, so you will not run out. This is of course not an option for everyone, because many people do need the continuous flow of oxygen in order to reap the benefits of oxygen therapy.

Liquid oxygen

Liquid oxygen can be stored in a portable tank, but the difference between the gas and liquid oxygen is how the liquid form is more highly concentrated, and more oxygen can fit in a smaller tank. Active people would prefer this method because it is much more portable, but it will still need to be refilled often.

Most people with liquid oxygen and oxygen gas systems are able to get their oxygen delivered to their home, and this will depend on your location.

Portable oxygen concentrators

Portable oxygen concentrators are the most portable option. An oxygen concentrator is a device that takes oxygen from the room, filters out impurities, and concentrates the air into medical-grade oxygen. The most obvious advantages of portable oxygen concentrators is that they are less expensive and don’t require refilling.

So while there are only 3 main forms of oxygen therapy, the diversification between each method is vast, and you may want to read more about the comparison between oxygen device systems, you can do so by clicking here to read Oxygen Concentrators vs. Oxygen Tanks: A Simple Comparison Guide.

A lot like buying a car, the next step, is deciding which brand of POC you will choose and then deciding on the model you want, luckily your choice are limited by your oxygen prescription, but for most people they will have more than one option, and picking the right device can be overwhelming.

Here are a few of the most trusted names in oxygen manufacturing.

Oxygen Manufacturing Companies

Of all of the oxygen manufacturers out there there are a few that continuously outperform their competitors, bringing oxygen users the most efficient, cost effective, overall best oxygen equipment to the market every year, for more reasons than one.

1. Inogen
2. ResMed
3. Philips Respironics
4. Drive Medical

At LPT Medical, quality is the only option. Which is why, LPT Medical offers products from all of the most reputable manufacturers in the industry. These are the companies that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for patients suffering with a debilitating respiratory condition. And by offering these brands, we ensure that more people around the country have access to the most state-of-the-art oxygen therapy equipment in the world.

Best Selling Portable Oxygen Concentrators

The make and model of your device will be narrowed down based on your oxygen requirements. From there, one of our knowledgeable respiratory specialists at LPT Medical reviews your needs and matches you with a variety of devices that vary in weight, battery life, and other factors. Our customers have reviews our specialists ability to pick out the best device, and we are thrilled with our performance.

Our selective and integrated process working with every customer on a personal level has given us worldwide recognition as one of the most trusted names in the world of oxygen therapy products offering home oxygen concentrators, portable oxygen concentrators, CPAP and BiPAP machines, and all the accessories you need to make the most of them.

That being said, we know which devices work for many people and for those who do qualify for the following portable oxygen concentrators, are always our happiest customers!

Inogen One G5 and the Inogen One G3

The Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator in the best selling pulse flow oxygen device there is because it meets mostly every oxygen patient’s needs. It is powerful enough to cover a user’s oxygen prescription, by going up to a level 6 which is 1260 ml or oxygen per minute.

The battery life of the Inogen One G5 is unbeatable, the Inogen One G5 Double Battery provides the same reliability as the G5 Single Battery but adds up to 13 hours of additional battery life on a single charge.

So this device can go with you anywhere, and last for hours, but it is also very lightweight. You can carry the One G5 with you in the One G5 backpack or the custom carrying case, but with either method you will barely notice the 4.7 pounds.

The Inogen One G3 goes up to a level 5 in pulse flow output, and weighs the same as the One G5. it is a great option for people who don’t mind having older generations that are still high quality and reliable. The One G3 is still rated the number one pulse flow oxygen concentrator because of its long-standing record and dependable results. Not to mention the carrying case is designed in a classic and sleek style, so it doesn't look like a medical device

The 8-cell battery that comes with the One G3 is very powerful, but you can also get the Inogen One G3 16-Cell Battery if you value that extra long lasting battery life.

The G3 is also one of the quietest portable oxygen concentrators available, but it also help you pay attention with audible alerts in case of a power outage, no breath detected alarms, and oxygen purity checks. If your oxygen level ever falls below required levels, the One G3 will let you know immediately.

Caire Freestyle Comfort

The Caire Freestyle Comfort portable oxygen concentrator has been compared to the Inogen One G5 in similar respects to its long lasting battery life and lightweight design. The Freestyle Comfort is even lighter than the One G5 but the battery doest last quite as long.

Similarly to the One G5 and One G3, the Freestyle comfort has two battery options, the Caire Freestyle small battery, and the Caire Freestyle large battery.

Respironics SimplyGo

The Respironics SimplyGo is the most lightweight portable oxygen concentrator that offers both pulse flow and continuous flow, making this device a hot commodity for people who switch between flow settings.

The long lasting battery life is another huge selling point because people can go longer without having to plug in their oxygen to the car or outlet. When the machine does need to be recharged it is as easy as changing your cell phone, and you can continue to use it as it charges.

Making the Most Out of Your Oxygen Device

In order to take advantage of all of our devices, including the ones not listed above, you can purchase extra batteries, external chargers, backpacks and carrying cases, and more. Oxygen accessories are designed to make using oxygen therapy easier and more comfortable, and you will quickly learn what aspects of oxygen therapy you want to make more comfortable. 

For example, if you notice that the oxygen tubing is putting a lot of pressure on your ears, there are ear pads available to accommodate that pain.

If you notice that your battery is dying too quickly, you can upgrade to the larger battery for extended use.

Devices like the the Inogen one G3 have backpacks and rolling backpacks available, to make carrying the 5 pound device even easier, you can find those items by following the links below:

Inogen One G3 Rolling Backpack by Portablez

Inogen One G3 Backpack

GO2 Carryall Inogen One G3 Carrying Bag

If you notice that your tubing tends to get tangled there are Tidy Tubs Oxygen Supply Tubs available to stop this from happening

Here are 4 other ways to take advantage of your oxygen concentrator

1. Consider buying additional oxygen concentrator batteries.
Having an additional oxygen concentrator battery is extremely important for people who enjoy spending extended time away from their home or car. An extra battery can be the difference between having to worry about leaving an event early versus living stress free knowing you have plenty of time with pure medical grade oxygen. This particularly applies to patients who do not get as much battery life, either due to their high-flow rate, or their device just doesn't have that long lasting battery that some do.

2. Keep your spare batteries fully charged and do not forget to rotate them.
Keeping an extra battery without a charge for extended periods of time can actually damage the battery. Oxygen users should always store spare batteries that are fully charged. this is not only better for the battery life overall, but keeping batteries fully charged and ready, allows you to switch batteries at any time without having to worry about damaging them or your POC. You should also rotate batteries if you have more than two and always switch to a fully charged battery.

Tip: If you aren't going to use your spare batteries, store them at a 50% charge to ensure you don't damage any battery cells.

3. Utilize the accessory bag that comes with the package

Most units will come with a custom carrying case, few do not. Theses accessory bag vary in size and color based on the type of concentrator you have has. The accessory bag is an excellent organizational tool that helps you arrange the unit accessories in one particular location without having trouble finding them or risk losing them. Accessory bags usually have padding, zipper or velcro, and easy access to keep the contents safe. 

4. Utilize the DC Power Supply.
All POCs come with a DC power supply that can be plugged into the cigarette lighter of a car. Small pulse flow units are totally functional on the DC power supply, which means you can use your device on any flow rate settings, and recharge the battery at the same time. However, the constant flow units carry a few limitations when using the DC power supply. Generally, uninterrupted flow units will continue to work and charge on pulse flow settings 1-4 as well as continuous flow settings as much as 2 LPM.

Overview 

Oxygen can be a life saving therapy if you are adhering to your oxygen prescription correctly. If you start to take advantage of you oxygen device, you can find even more independence and more freedom than you had before you needed oxygen. All this requires in knowledge and trust in the process that this life saving therapy, can make a huge difference in the quality of you life. 

There are three main types of respiratory disease: airway diseases, lung tissue diseases, and circulatory diseases. The first type, airway diseases, affect the tubes called bronchioles, usually causing them to narrow, swell, or become filled with a slimy substance called mucus. Airway diseases include asthma, a specific type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) called chronic bronchitis, and bronchiectasis, a condition that results from recurrent lung infections.

The second type of respiratory disease, lung tissue disease, specifically affects the tissue within the lungs. Oftentimes, these diseases cause the lungs to become inflamed and lose their elasticity which is why they’re usually categorized as “restrictive” lung diseases because they prevent the lungs from expanding fully. Pulmonary fibrosis is one common type of lung tissue disease and it results from the formation of irreversible scar tissue in the lungs.

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The final type of respiratory disease is lung circulation disease. This type is a little more complicated in that it affects the complex interactions between your lungs and the rest of your circulatory system. These diseases prevent the lungs from processing oxygen from the air you breathe and releasing carbon dioxide, resulting in an imbalance of gases in the body. As you can imagine, these diseases are closely linked with cardiovascular issues.    

Believe it or not, COPD has elements of all three of these categories, so it’s more complicated than most people think. In the following sections, we’ll take a look at 7 interesting facts that you may not know about COPD. After reading this, we hope that you are more aware of the global burden of COPD and that you’ll feel inclined to share this information with friends and family members who may be at risk of contracting COPD.

It’s One of the Most Preventable Chronic Illnesses

When we say a disease is “preventable,” we mean that personal lifestyle choices most often cause the disease to take hold. For example, acute illnesses like the flu or the common cold can be prevented with vaccinations and proper hygiene. But when it comes to COPD, this is not quite so simple. According to lung.org, 85 to 90 percent of all COPD cases are caused by cigarette smoking, but there are also other risk factors at play such as environmental pollution and genetics which makes COPD a difficult disease to prevent.

When you compare COPD to some of the other leading preventable illnesses in the world, it’s not hard to see why COPD is so difficult to prevent. Heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are some of the most discussed diseases and more often than not, this results in a high level of funding while other prominent diseases like COPD are left behind. According to a survey published in ScienceDaily, 38 percent of people with COPD were unaware of the disease before being diagnosed. This often leads to people referring to COPD as a “silent disease,” because it can feel like patients don’t have much of a voice in the community at large.   

Perhaps, one of the reasons that COPD has such a lack of awareness is because of how slowly the disease develops. Typically, COPD takes many decades to progress from its early stages to its later stages. This is in stark contrast to diseases like lung cancer which tend to come on more quickly. Unfortunately, this leads to people underestimating the risk of COPD and not taking it as seriously as it should be. Another thing that can overshadow COPD is the fact that lung cancer shares the same awareness month, November. Since lung cancer has more funding in the first place, many people overlook COPD funding and support.

COPD Cannot Be Reversed

COPD is what’s known as a “progressive disease.” What this means is that symptoms related to this respiratory condition get worse over time. While symptoms may subside after a flare-up or exacerbation, these events usually result in a permanent drop in lung function. This is in contrast to conditions like asthma which exhibits similar symptoms, but after experiencing an asthma attack, most people fully recover and don’t maintain any permanent damage to their lungs.

As a result, the most important thing you can do to prevent your disease from progressing, or at the very least, slow its progression is to avoid common COPD triggers. We discuss in detail in this post how you can avoid COPD exacerbations, but we’ll summarize the points here for your convenience. First and foremost, infections are the cause of around 51% of all COPD exacerbations, so preventing them should be your top priority.

When you were young and didn’t have any chronic conditions, you probably weren’t too concerned about the flu or the common cold. These are infections that our body has adapted immunity towards allowing us to fight them off quickly, with or without the use of medications. However, the older we get older, these seemingly harmless things become a lot more serious, especially for people with chronic respiratory illness. It’s estimated that bacterial infections are the cause of 40 to 50 percent of all COPD exacerbations and a significant portion of hospitalizations as well.

Another major cause of COPD flare-ups and exacerbation is air pollution. No matter where you are and what the time of year is, there is air pollution. And if you want to slow the progression of COPD, you should be careful to check the quality of air wherever you go. AirNow.gov is a great resource for anyone who wants an accurate and up-to-date description of the air quality in their area. It’s recommended that COPD patients avoid going outside if the AQI (air quality index) is over 100.

Smoking Cessation is Still Important

There’s a strong belief among many people who have been diagnosed with COPD that “the damage has been done” and that “smoking cessation won’t help.” However, this could not be farther from the truth. While there is no cure for COPD, smoking will most certainly make your symptoms worse. In fact, cigarettes are an immunosuppressant drug meaning they inhibit the body’s innate and adaptive immune system. This puts you at a higher risk of infection and hampers your body’s ability to heal.

According to reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 38 percent of Americans who have COPD are current smokers. This is pretty astonishing considering that smoking is entirely counterproductive to a COPD treatment plan. Unfortunately, everyone is different so there’s no set smoking cessation plan you should follow. Your best bet will be to speak with your doctor who can help you find something that will work for you.

Another thing that will help is being away from a household where people have smoked or currently smoke. Secondhand smoke can be equally as dangerous as smoking yourself and experts estimate that the harmful chemicals in cigarettes can linger in a room for as long as five hours. In other words, if you smell cigarettes, you’re probably inhaling harmful chemicals that could lead to a COPD exacerbation. If you live with someone who smokes, try asking them to do it outside.

Every Case of COPD is Different

While around 16 million Americans have COPD, every case is unique. COPD is an umbrella term that’s used to denote two different chronic illnesses: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. And while these conditions might exhibit similar symptoms such as a chronic cough, breathlessness, and fatigue, they’re very different in terms of their causes, risk factors, and prognosis. These conditions can also occur in different parts of the respiratory system and work in tandem with co-morbidities which further complicates treatment and outlook.

Emphysema is what many people think of as the “smoker’s disease.” It’s a condition that affects the alveoli, the tiny air sacs that scatter the lungs. These air sacs are responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the bloodstream, so they play a key role in our systemic health. In someone with emphysema, the alveoli begin to lose their shape and fill with fluid meaning the transfer of gases is less efficient. 

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In many cases, doctors will prescribe supplemental oxygen therapy which can help reduce the burden on the lungs. But it’s important to understand exactly how much you should be receiving because too much oxygen can lead to oxygen toxicity. This can result in symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases even death. Make sure you’re clear on when to use oxygen and how much to use and don’t assume that increasing your oxygen intake will help you feel better.

The treatment options for emphysema also vary based on where the emphysema is located. For example, if the emphysema is located in one specific area of the lung, you may be a candidate for lung volume reduction surgery. This is a procedure that involves removing the damaged tissue in the lungs which prevents air from getting trapped and causing difficulty breathing. While it may sound counterintuitive to remove part of your lungs in order to help you breathe better, sometimes the benefits outweigh the negatives.

In other cases, emphysema patients may be a candidate for something called endobronchial valves. This is a less intrusive alternative to lung volume reduction surgery and involves inserting one-way valves into certain airways. The end result is that air won’t get trapped in areas of the lungs with emphysema and you’ll be able to breathe easier.

Lastly, COPD can be complicated when co-morbidities such as sleep apnea are involved. Sleep apnea is a condition where the airways close up as you sleep resulting in disruptions in your sleep and more serious long-term effects such as an increased risk of high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart attack. When COPD and sleep apnea occur together it is referred to as overlap syndrome, and studies have found that this phenomenon is common, especially as COPD progresses.

There is a Genetic Component to COPD

There is a small group of COPD patients that are often excluded from larger discussions about COPD and its causes. These are people who contracted COPD without ever picking up a cigarette or spending time around smokers. While alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD) is rare, it is the number one cause of COPD in non-smokers and people who live otherwise healthy lives.

A1AD occurs when the liver does not produce the correct amount of the alpha-1 protein. This protein is responsible for protecting the lungs from damage due to inflammation and it also prevents damage due to scar tissue in the liver. In these people, even something as simple as exposure to poor air quality or higher than normal levels of air pollution can lead to permanent lung damage and even COPD. 

While there is no cure for alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, there are treatment options available. It’s also very important to recognize it at an early age so awareness is key. One possible treatment option is called augmentation therapy (replacement therapy). This is where the patient receives replacement alpha-1 from a donor once a week through an IV treatment. While this is not a cure-all, it can play an important role in delaying damage to the lungs. This is another reason it’s important to start as soon as possible.   

COPD is More Common in Women

For many decades, COPD was primarily a disease that affected men. This is largely due to the fact that women did not smoke very frequently before the 1950s. However, since then, the gap between men who smoke and women who smoke has narrowed significantly. With that being said, the number of smokers, in general, has decreased from 40 percent in the 1970s to around 14 percent in 2017.

Another reason COPD is more common among women is that women are proven to have a faster rate of decline in FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) than men despite smoking less heavily. Studies have also shown that women have higher hospitalization rates and deaths due to respiratory failure or comorbidities.  

COPD Patients Can Live a Long and Healthy Life

It’s so easy to fall into a line of thinking where being diagnosed with a chronic condition means it’s the end, but this couldn’t be farther from the truth. While receiving a COPD diagnosis should act as a wake-up call for heavy smokers, it is far from “the end.” Many COPD patients are able to live long, happy lives as long as they make a serious effort to change their lifestyle for the better.

According to Medicinenet.com, the five-year life expectancy for newly diagnosed COPD patients is 40% to 70%. This is despite the fact that as many as 38% of people diagnosed with COPD continue to smoke and many don’t follow through with the treatment plan that their doctor set forth for them. On the other hand, people who immediately quit smoking and implement healthy choices like supplemental oxygen therapy, a healthy diet, and a consistent exercise routine see much better results. Some people with COPD have lived well into their 70s and 80s.

Conclusion

COPD is a leading cause of death in the United States and it’s also one of the most preventable illnesses in the world. Despite this fact, many people are woefully unaware of what exactly it is and how it affects the body. In comparison to other chronic illnesses like lung cancer or heart disease, COPD receives a lack of funding. This has led to many people referring to it as an “invisible illness.” — many people are affected, yet many suffer in silence.

The good news is that everyone can play a role in the treatment and prevention of COPD. if you have COPD, you can take part in clinical trials which helps to pave the way for researchers and doctors. If you have a friend or loved one with COPD, you can take time out of your day to help them manage their disease. And if you don’t have any connection to COPD, you can still get involved by donating or volunteering with organizations like the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation.

If this is your first time looking for a portable oxygen concentrator, you probably have a lot of questions that you need answers to. Maybe you’re wondering if your new concentrator will meet your oxygen needs, how long the battery will last, or how reliable it will be. It’s important to learn about these things before purchasing an oxygen machine so that there aren’t any surprises once it arrives at your door.

Quite possibly the most common question we get here at LPT Medical is, “what is the quietest portable oxygen concentrator?” This is a perfectly valid question considering the fact that other oxygen therapy devices like compressed oxygen and liquid oxygen are virtually silent. Since oxygen concentrators work entirely differently than these two devices, many people don’t know what to expect when they purchase one for the first time.  

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In this post, we’ll be taking a closer look at the portable oxygen concentrators with the lowest sound output in 2021. Keep in mind that these are not necessarily the “best” portable oxygen concentrators and they may not be adequate for your specific oxygen needs. Be sure to call us at 1-(800) 946-1201 to speak with a respiratory specialist who can help you out.

Why is it Important to Have a Quiet Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Portable oxygen concentrators work by taking in ambient air, removing gases like argon and nitrogen, then putting out medical grade oxygen. Because POCs don’t simply hold and release oxygen like oxygen tanks or liquid oxygen tanks, they have a lot more components, and thus, a higher potential to create noise. Below are just a few of the reasons you might want a quiet portable oxygen concentrator:

Reduced Anxiety

Noise anxiety is a very real thing for many people. Whether it’s a dog barking next door or a noisy construction project on your street, being exposed to persistent loud sounds can be a major distraction. The type of noise can also make a difference. For example, high pitched noises tend to cause more anxiety than low pitched noises. 

More Restful Sleep

If you have COPD, you will likely be prescribed 24/7 long-term oxygen therapy. In other words, you will need to use your portable oxygen concentrator all day and all night, even when you’re sleeping. If you’re a light sleeper, a noisy machine can make it really difficult to get to sleep and stay asleep. And, according to the Sleep Foundation, even if a noise doesn’t wake you up, it can still contribute to sleep restlessness and result in feelings of sleepiness and mood changes once you wake up.

Go More Places

Last but certainly not least, you’ll be able to go more places and do more things with a quiet portable oxygen concentrator. A noisy concentrator could easily cause a disturbance in a library or during a church service, and you may feel self-conscious about bringing a noisy concentrator to spend time with friends. Either way, a concentrator with a low sound output will allow you to have more freedom in how you go about your daily activities. 

1.) The Inogen One G5 (37 decibels)

Inogen, Inc. is a medical oxygen company that’s been around since 2001. They are one of the most respected and trusted brands in the industry and they are primarily known for producing powerful, lightweight pulse dose portable oxygen concentrators. What many people don’t realize, however, is that their latest POC, the Inogen One G5, is also the quietest portable oxygen concentrator ever produced. 

The Inogen One G5 was released in 2019, and still to this day, it offers the highest oxygen output of any pulse flow oxygen concentrator and it’s also one of the lightest, weighing in at only 4.7 pounds. Whether you’re someone who has a need for a high flow of oxygen or you just use oxygen intermittently throughout the day, the Inogen One G5 is a great choice for many oxygen patients. 

On a flow setting of 2, the Inogen One G5 is only 37 dBA (decibels). This is comparable to a quiet conversation or a gentle stream meaning it won’t be hugely disruptive in your daily life. You’ll be able to go out to a movie, church service, or library without worrying about people getting annoyed by the sound, and if your treatment plan allows it, you can even drop down to a flow setting of 1 if you want it to be extra quiet. 

Inogen One G5 Specs

Inogen One G5 Battery Life

Inogen One G5 Oxygen Output

2.) The GCE Zen-O Lite (37 decibels)

GCE is a world-leader in medical oxygen device manufacturing. They have production facilities in China, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, and more. GCE Medical is a subsidiary of Gas Control Equipment Ltd, Europe’s leading gas equipment company. GCE is mainly known for its Zen-O continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator and its Zen-O Lite pulse dose portable oxygen concentrator, but they also offer two stationary oxygen concentrators: the M50 and OC-E80.

Much like the Inogen One G5, the GCE Zen-O Lite is perfect for those who want to live life without limits. Weighing in at only 5.5 pounds, you’ll be able to sling it over your shoulder without it causing pain or soreness. While this unit offers significantly less battery life than the G5, you’ll still have up to 8 hours of freedom on one battery charge if you’re on a setting of 2.

The sound output of the GCE Zen-O Lite is the same as the G5 at 37 dBA, so you will have no problems going to public areas and enjoying your day without worrying about the sound of your portable oxygen concentrator. The Zen-O Lite is also a great nighttime concentrator. If you need oxygen while you sleep, you can keep this concentrator next to your bed without disturbing your sleep. 

GCE Zen-O Lite Specs

GCE Zen-O Lite Oxygen Output

GCE Zen-O Lite Battery Life

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3.) The Inogen One G3 (39 decibels)

Despite being released in 2012, the Inogen One G3 is still a popular choice for oxygen patients who want a lightweight, reliable, and quiet portable oxygen concentrator. While the G3 is 2 dBA louder than the Inogen One G5 and the GCE Zen-O Lite, this difference is negligible and you likely wouldn’t even notice if you put it side-by-side with the other two devices.

The G3 is not too far behind the G5 as far as other specs are concerned. It weighs in at just 4.8 pounds with flow settings 1 through 5, and it has an expected battery life of 8 hours on a flow setting of 2. Since the G3 is a little bit older than the G5, you might find that it’s a little bit easier to get a good deal on it. 

One of the biggest selling points of the G3 is its accessories. There are a wide range of carrying options for the G3 including the custom carrying case, G3 backpack, G3 rolling backpack, and GO2 Carryall, a stylish handbag that can match with just about any outfit. No matter what way you look at it, the G3 offers a lot more options for customization than other portable oxygen concentrators out there.

Inogen One G3 Specs

Inogen One G3 Battery Life

Supplemental oxygen therapy or long term oxygen therapy (LTOT), is an at home therapy process 1.5 million Americans utilize everyday in order to improve their quantity and quality of living with chronic lung diseases.

Many people despise physical therapy for the discomfort, pain, and slow rehabilitation periods. The same goes for oxygen therapy, it can be uncomfortable and a pain to get used to. With that being said, if you are an oxygen patient, LTOT is now a part of you daily life, so if you want to make it as easy and as comfortable as possible, follow the information laid out in this article.

Supplemental oxygen therapy is a necessary treatment for lung patients in accordance with strict health criteria. Respiratory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, asthma, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, lung cancer, and pneumonia are all possible contributing factors that would require someone to need long term supplemental oxygen therapy (LTOT). 

LTOT is prescribed to patients with low blood oxygen levels and corresponding symptoms, and only when LTOT would work to reduce the number of hospitalizations, increase lung capacity, and improve health-related quality of life. 

Many lung patients do not qualify for long term oxygen therapy, and by taking oxygen therapy without the proper instructions to do so can be very harmful. 

If an individual is using their LTOT at the most optimal dosage, and adheres to their prescription daily, the therapy has the capacity to add years to their life that they would have lost without the therapy.

Getting the Optimal Amount of Oxygen 

It is critical to get a healthy amount of oxygen. A healthy person will have a normal oxygen saturation level between 95% and 100%, and typically, patients with lung disease tend to have a lower than normal oxygen level. Once oxygen saturation levels drop consistently to 88% and below at rest, a patient should be analyzed for supplemental oxygen therapy to help improve their overall oxygen levels and better manage symptoms.. 

So how do you know you are getting enough and not too much oxygen when you are using an oxygen device? Here are 8 ways to make sure your supplemental oxygen therapy is done correctly:

1. Understand the oxygen prescription your doctor gives you
2. Check for hypoxemia at regular intervals using a pulse oximetry monitor
3. Keep a respiratory health diary so you can track the progression of your disease and better treat your condition 
4. Take you medication in accordance with your oxygen therapy 
5. When you travel, be sure you can travel with your oxygen device or you have a oxygen rental set up before you get to your destination 
6. Have a back-up portable oxygen concentrator battery in the case of a power outage, or extra canisters for other emergencies
7.  If you experience a COPD exacerbation, have the knowledge and capabilities to adjust your oxygen device to fit your needs.
8. Buy a portable oxygen concentrator that can increase its oxygen output from your baseline dosage, so that if you ever need to increase your dosage your oxygen needs will be covered  

Chronic lung diseases are progressive, so your condition will change over time, and depending on your lifestyle, deterioration can happen swiftly, or, ideally, it will progress slowly. 

You have to be in tune with your body when you are an oxygen patient. You have to be capable of determining on your own and with the help of a pulse oximeter monitor when you feel low on oxygen, and if you should seek medical attention, or simply take care of the issue on your own. 

This is how a health journal can help you and your doctor explain your symptoms, and it is also a great way to show you what is happening in your body in certain situations. 

One of the most obvious ways to make sure you are getting the most optimal amount of oxygen is knowing how to work your oxygen device. Whether you have a portable oxygen concentrator or liquid or gas oxygen tank, you have to adjust to the device and use it properly. 

This is why the Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator comes with a free Thrive eLearning Course, that offers:

• Direct access to a private support group (patients, caretakers, and experts) 
• Years of COPD and respiratory illness knowledge
• Step-by-step disease management regimen
• Best selling e-books and guides
• Step-by-step breathing exercises
• Learn about exacerbations and how to prevent them
• Speak with a nutritionist about refining and improving your diet

So learning about your disease is one thing, but on top of that you must be equipped to work your oxygen device, this will take time, practice, and education, but with the help of resources, like the LPT Medical blog, the thrive eLearning Course, and pulmonary rehabilitation groups, or online support groups, you can learn rather quickly. 

There are a lot of ways to make supplemental oxygen therapy easy, and once you get in the rhythm of using your device, you can start to reap the many benefits of LTOT such as reduced symptoms, improved quality of life, less hospitalizations, and even living longer. 

Buying a Portable Oxygen Concentrator 

The first step to making supplemental oxygen therapy easier, is buying yourself a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) if you do not already have one. 

POCs make life easier for oxygen patients everywhere for a few obvious and other less obvious reasons. First of all, they are portable and designed to help oxygen patients get out and experience life the way they want to

Portability  

Finding an oxygen device that helps you move around rather than an oxygen tank that holds you back is an essential quality that can help make LTOT easier. 

Many oxygen patients are still very mobile and eager to travel, exercise, and improve their lives through physical activity, daily chorus, and projects. Having a lightweight oxygen device that you can bring with you to the grocery store, on an airplane, and everywhere in between is a luxury that once you experience having one, you will wonder how you got by without one. 

The Inogen One G5 is a 4.7 pound oxygen concentrator that exerts pulse flow oxygen 1-6, and can last for up to 10 hrs on setting 2 with the One G5 double battery accessory. With this trusted device, an oxygen patient could carry the One G5 out to dinner, to a movie or a play, for a long walk on the beach without having to worry about running low on oxygen or battery life, and it is also easily transported along any adventure. 

Convenience 

LTOT does not have to be an invasive therapy that gets in the way of your daily routine. If you have an oxygen tank, you will be obligated to get your oxygen filled, traveling will be difficult, and maneuvering your device can be challenging for many. 

POCs run on batteries, therefore, you are not tethered to a wall, nor do you have to worry about coordinating your oxygen delivery every week. 

The Caire Freestyle Comfort can last for 8 hours with the double battery on a setting 2, and it only weighs 5 pounds. It is user friendly.

On top of being portable and convenient, POCs are also less expensive than oxygen tanks. 

Portable oxygen concentrator costs

There are two kinds of POCs, pulse flow and continuous flow. Continuous flow oxygen devices require more power and bigger batteries, therefore, they are more expensive than pulse flow oxygen devices. 

If you have an oxygen tank, you will forever be at the will of your oxygen supply company that comes to your home to fill your tanks. Every time this costs time and money. The costs of refilling your tanks over time will outnumber the upfront costs of a POC for a device that never has to be refilled, and is even more reliable and functional. 

Easing Nasal Cannula discomfort 

When your oxygen therapy makes you feel uncomfortable, easing these side effects can help make your LTOT easier and more manageable. Oxygen masks and nasal cannula can cause a lot of discomforts for some oxygen patines. Because you have to wear these oxygen accessories all day long and maybe at night as well, this can cause some irritation.

Here are some of the most common problems that oxygen patients have with nasal cannula and oxygen masks:

• Nasal dryness and nosebleeds
• Ear pressure and pain
• Skin irritation
• Soreness
• Tubing getting snagged, twisted, and pulled
• Excess moisture and condensation

Here is an blog you can read that will help you deal with the discomforts LTOT can impose: How to Make Supplemental Oxygen More Comfortable

Maintenance 

As with anything, oxygen devices require maintenance from time to time. Portable oxygen concentrates extra air from the surrounding area, and filters the air so you breath in to medical-grade oxygen with less impurities and excess particles.

Regular maintenance you will have to perform on your portable oxygen concentrator is cleaning the filter, as you would with any filtration system. 

You should clean your oxygen filter depending on how much you use your POC, normally oxygen users clean or at least inspect their oxygen filter once a week. When you are inspecting the filter make sure there are no holes or tears, and if there is any damage buy a new filter. 

You can clean the filter with a vacuum cleaner attachment, and work to remove dust or debris.

If you vacuum the filter, and there is still some dirt or dust remaining, you can get the filter wet just enough to wash away any remaining dirt and use mild dish soap, just be sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove the soap. Allow it to air dry completely in a dust free environment before you put it back into place. Depending on the model and the supplier’s instructions, you might need to clean the filter more often than once a week.

There are oxygen devices like the Respironics SimplyGo that are designed to be durable and reliable and require very little regular maintenance.

Staying Clean and Organized 

Cleaning your portable oxygen concentrator is an important task in taking care of your oxygen device. The better care you can take of your equipment the longer it will last, and the less maintenance you will have to perform on the device.

Everytime you need maintenance on your device, you have to send the device to your distributor, and wait for it to be repaired and sent back to you, this is obviously a huge inconvenience.

To clean your portable oxygen concentrator follow these simple steps:

1. Always unplug your device before cleaning it 
2. Wipe down the outside with a rag of warm water and a little bit of soap
3. Rinse the device with another damp rag
4. Use a cotton swab to get the dust and dirt out of vents and cracks 
5. Dry completely 

To clean your nasal tubing:

1. Soak the tubs in a pool of soapy warm water 
2. Rinse the nasal cannula with a solution of water 90% and 10% white vinegar 
3. Dry completely 

You can also wipe your device and the nasal tubing with alcohol wipes to remove germs daily. It is a good practice to replace nasal cannulas and tubing every month if you use the device often. Keep your concentrator in an area with less dust, and if you can, try to dust your home often or use an air filter that can extract dust and particles from the surrounding air thereby limiting the amount of dust that is filtered out through your concentrator. 

To clean the filter

First, closely follow the manufacturer's instructions for removing the filter from the device. Then follow these instructions:

1. Dip the filter into a pool of light dish soap mixed with warm water 
2. Use a damp cloth to thoroughly clean off any lingering dirt or dust 
3. Rinse the filter to get off all of the soap
4. Completely dry the filter before putting it back into your concentrator

Organization is key to making life easier while using LTOT. 

Things that you should have organized and capable of finding at all times:

1. The contact of you doctor or physician 
2. The contact of your oxygen equipment sales company 1(800)-946-1201
3.  The maintenance receipts of your oxygen device 
4. Your oxygen prescription written by your doctor
5. A health journal explaining any and all of your experiences with exacerbated symptoms, oxygen equipment issues, and oxygen levels 
6. The location of extra batteries, tubing, and other oxygen accessories 
7. The location of your emergency oxygen supply 

Having all of this information organized can create a sense of peace and comfort in your daily life. Without organization, especially if you have a chronic illness, stress and anxiety can play a huge part in your well-being.

Sleeping and Resting with Oxygen Therapy 

Getting enough sleep and rest is imperative for respiratory patients. If you do not get enough sleep either due to a secondary sleeping disorder or you find it hard to sleep while using oxygen equipment you should focus on a strict bedtime routine, finding time to exercise during the day, and using the best oxygen equipment for sleep. 

If you have sleep apnea, of if you are experiencing any signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, like snoring a lot, you should talk to your doctor getting tested. Sleep apnea and COPD often occur together and in this case, treating sleep apnea is the best way for you to get more sleep.

Beyond treating sleep apnea, you can also follow these suggestions:

Get into a strict bedtime routine, this will help you get into a rhythm, so that falling asleep and staying asleep becomes a natural process. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day — even on weekends, this can help sync your body and mind so that sleeping becomes a natural part of your day. 

If your oxygen saturation levels are low while you sleep, talk to your doctor, they may prescribe oxygen for you to use at night. If you do use oxygen at night but it is keeping you up, understand that is can take some time to get used to.

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The Respironics SimplyGo portable oxygen concentrator is CPAP/BiPAP compatible and it is equipped with both pulse flow and continuous flow oxygen delivery modes to cover you 24/7 so if you need continuous oxygen at night and pulse flow during the day, this device can do it all. 

One amazing feature the SimplyGo offers is the sleep mode technology, this is ideal for oxygen patients that have a hard time falling asleep. All you have to do is turn the "sleep mode" on when you feel yourself dozing off to ensure your oxygen gets delivered while you are sleeping.

When you turn "sleep mode" on your SimplyGo increases its sensitivity to detect your breath, and it softens the pulse flow delivery so it doesn’t wake you up. If you breath is too shallow and your SimplyGo doesn’t detect a breath or if you breathe through your mouth, it will automatically switch back over to continuous flow to ensure you get your required oxygen.

Here are some other ways that can help you fall asleep: 

• Avoid electronics before bed
• Exercise during the day 
• Analyze your medication and check out if any side effects include losing sleep 
• Try to avoid long naps during the day
• No caffeine after 4pm  

Overview

Just like physical therapy, oxygen therapy can be tiring and uncomfortable, but the more that you do it the better you will feel. 

Allow yourself the time to adjust to LTOT is you are just getting started, and if you have been a long time oxygen patient and you are still experience discomfort, we hope that some of the ideas in this article can help you adjust to a more comfortable oxygen therapy regimen. 

According to Philip Tierno, director of clinical microbiology at NYU, humans come into contact with around 60,000 germs every day. However, only about one to two percent of these are potentially harmful. Our body also has innate and adaptive immunity which helps to protect us from these dangerous bacteria. Innate immunity is the defense system that’s in place when we’re born, and adaptive immunity is our body’s defense which develops over time as we’re exposed to more and more bacteria.

With the advent of the novel coronavirus, people have been much more conscious about their exposure to bacteria and viruses. The World Health Organization (WHO) has put forth a list of best practices for avoiding exposure to COVID-19 such as social distancing practices, mask-wearing, and other hygiene measures. And at the end of last year, we saw the first COVID-19 vaccine being tested on high-risk patients.

Despite the urgency of the COVID-19 vaccine, many people still have doubts about getting vaccinated due to the perceived risks. Older adults with chronic illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other respiratory diseases are proven to be at the highest risk of both contracting and experiencing severe reactions to the virus, yet many of these people choose not to get the vaccine. 

In this post, we’re going to go over everything you need to know about getting vaccinated as a COPD patient, why it’s important, and settle any doubts or fears that you may have about the process. 

What is a Vaccine?

Aside from safe hygiene practices, vaccines are the best tool that we have to fight bacterial and viral infections. Vaccinations are made from the same germs that cause the disease, but they are either weakened or killed so they don’t actually make you sick. What this does is causes your immune system to produce antibodies that can be used to fight off the disease if you come into contact with it. In other words, you’re developing immunity to the disease without actually contracting it.

Vaccines are not a new concept by any means, but the practice of vaccinology has evolved over time. According to healthaffairs.org, the first successful vaccine is credited to Edward Jenner, an English physician. In 1796, he administered a vaccine to a small child which prevented smallpox. While this vaccine was effective in the general population, there were limitations when it came to administering the vaccine to large groups of high-risk people.

With modern technology, however, administering vaccines has become much easier and more effective. While the first COVID-19 vaccine was administered this past December, there are already over 39 million people worldwide who have been fully vaccinated and over 120 million who have received at least one dose. What’s more, the vaccine is being administered to high-risk patients and front-line healthcare workers before everyone else which will increase its effectiveness in the long term.    

Why Do COPD Patients Need Vaccines?

Most COPD patients are considered “high risk” when it comes to transmittable diseases like COVID-19 and influenza. According to Healthline, COPD is most common in people over the age of 40, and studies have shown that the average age of death for COPD patients is around 77.4 years of age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seniors over the age of 65 are at the highest risk of COVID-19, making up about 80% of the total deaths. They also report similar trends with influenza and other infectious diseases. 

Another factor that contributes to COPD patients being “high risk” is that many of them are smokers. According to Very Well Health, 38% of adults with COPD continue to smoke. Nicotine, one of the most harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke, alters the immune response in your body putting you at a higher risk of contracting an infection. According to news-medical.net, carcinogens are the main immunosuppressive agents in cigarette smoke. One of the worst effects of nicotine is that it inhibits the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which weakens the ability of neutrophils to kill pathogens (a microorganism that causes disease).

Infection is the Most Common Cause of Exacerbation

A COPD exacerbation is a period of time where your respiratory symptoms suddenly worsen. For example, if you normally experience mild breathlessness and chest pain throughout your day, an exacerbation could cause you to experience more severe symptoms that prevent you from going about your day. Exacerbations can range in severity from mild to severe. They can also have varying time frames from several hours to several days depending on what caused it. 

While many things can cause an exacerbation such as air pollution, over exercising, or allergies, lung infections are by far the most common cause. Although infections like pneumonia can be mostly harmless in younger people with healthy lungs, they can be much more serious in COPD patients. COPD, especially chronic bronchitis, is associated with swelling and increased mucus production in the airways. Infections like influenza can contribute to this issue making it even harder to catch a breath.  

Infection Can Cause Hospitalization

Not only does infection result in COPD exacerbations, but it’s also the most common cause of hospitalization in COPD patients. Hospitalization is something that you want to avoid at all costs, not only because it’s an indication you’re suffering from something severe, but also because it’s a very heavy financial burden. In 2016, the average cost of a hospital stay was $11,700 meaning it’s the most costly healthcare spending in the country. For more information on avoiding hospitalization due to COPD, read through this post. 

Another reason it’s important to avoid hospitals is because they’re not a safe place for you to be during a pandemic. While doctors want anyone and everyone who’s experiencing a medical emergency to feel safe going to a hospital, there’s no reason to risk it if you don’t have to. Not every hospital has the same policies or safety practices when it comes to COVID-19 prevention, so it’s important to research hospitals and do what you can to prevent being hospitalized.

It Protects Other People

Last but certainly not least, getting vaccinated plays an important role in protecting people around you. Infectious diseases are often passed from person-to-person via physical contact or simply breathing the same air. While getting vaccinated is not a surefire sign that you won’t carry a disease or pass it onto someone else, it can help. Even if you are vaccinated for COVID-19, however, you’ll still need to wear a mask and maintain safe social distancing.  

Are There Risks to Getting a Vaccine?

Unfortunately, the risks of getting vaccinated are often blown out of proportion. People hear of friends or family members experiencing symptoms of the disease they’re being vaccinated for and this turns them off of receiving the vaccination themselves. But this is a perfectly natural reaction to the vaccination and it’s actually a good sign that the vaccine is working as it should. This is because your body is creating an immune response that leads to the creation of antibodies which inevitably prevents you from getting sick.

Which Vaccines Should COPD Patients Receive?

Influenza Vaccine

The influenza vaccine is possibly one of the most important vaccines you can receive because hundreds of thousands of people are hospitalized due to the flu every year. Flu symptoms include.

• Headache
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Fever
  
  

It’s recommended that you receive a flu vaccine every year because your body’s defenses will diminish over time. Another reason to keep up to date with your flu vaccines is that there are different strains of this virus. The vaccines may be updated from year-to-year in order to ensure that people have immunity to all of these changing strains. 

Pneumococcal Vaccine

Pneumococcal disease is the name for infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. You might have never heard of this type of vaccine and that’s because it’s not recommended for everyone. However, the reason it’s often recommended for COPD patients is to prevent pneumonia. This is a respiratory infection that attacks the alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs that are responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the blood. COPD patients are more susceptible because they often struggle to clear mucus from the lungs which can carry bacteria.

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Tdap Vaccine

Pertussis, or whooping cough as it’s more commonly known, can lead to pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs), brain damage, seizures, and even pneumonia. Even the mildest cases of whooping cough can exacerbate COPD symptoms, potentially leading to hospitalization. It’s recommended that adults receive one dose of the Tdap vaccine and they also have the option of getting a booster shot every 10 years which strengthens its effects.

Zoster Vaccine

Chickenpox is a highly contagious infection that’s characterized by rashes on the skin. If you’ve had this condition earlier in life you might experience a recurrence called shingles. This is because, after you recover from chickenpox, the virus moves to your nerve tissue where it can emerge later in your life. Fortunately, if you have never contracted chickenpox during your life, you are not at high risk for shingles.

Studies have shown that COPD patients who have had chickenpox are twice as likely to contract shingles as healthy individuals who have had chickenpox. This is most likely due to the widespread inflammation and immune system disruptions caused by the disease. Be sure to speak with your doctor about getting a zoster vaccine if you believe you’re at risk of contracting shingles. 

COVID-19 Vaccine

The coronavirus is at the top of everyone’s minds at the moment, and rightfully so. Since early last year, people have been scrambling to find ways to live normal lives without putting themselves and others at risk of contracting this virus. Miraculously, healthcare professionals were able to test out the first-ever COVID-19 vaccine at the end of the year and now it’s being mass-administered all over the world.

As we’ve learned, the people who are at the highest risk of contracting and experiencing severe symptoms from COVID are older adults with chronic conditions, especially pulmonary disease, heart disease, and diabetes. If you fit any of these descriptions, it’s time to reach out to your doctor and ask about receiving a COVID vaccine. 

Speak With Your Doctor First

Before going out to get a vaccine, it’s important to first speak with your doctor. Since vaccines are such an important part of COPD management, you’ll want to have a plan to follow before taking any action. Your doctor will recommend vaccinations based on your age, medical history, as well as the expected prognosis of COPD or any other chronic condition you have. In rare cases, your doctor may advise you to not receive a vaccine due to the perceived risks.

Other Safe Practices to Prevent Infection

Social Distancing

Social distancing, also known as physical distancing, is the practice of maintaining distance between yourself and others. While it’s debated exactly how much space you need in order to prevent the spread of illness, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends six feet. However, it’s also important to consider the type of environment that you’re in. If you’re indoors where ventilation is poor, you may need to maintain more physical distance in order to be safe. Another thing you should do is be sure to cover your coughs and sneezes in your shoulder.   

Wearing a Mask

Surgical masks and cloth face coverings are not designed to filter out viruses, but this doesn’t mean they aren’t helpful when it comes to preventing the spread of disease. Face coverings are effective at preventing large droplets of saliva or mucus from exiting or entering the mouth as well as helping to prevent germs from escaping when you cough or sneeze. It’s important to make sure you’re wearing your mask correctly by ensuring that it covers both your mouth and your nose. Also, make sure the ear straps are tight enough that you don’t have to constantly adjust the mask with your hands which can increase your risk of getting sick.

Practicing Good Hygiene

Hygiene is something that you can always work at to improve and it’s especially important during a pandemic. You should be washing your hands with soap and water periodically throughout the day especially before eating, drinking, and going to bed at night. Cleaning surfaces in your home such as door handles, tables, chairs, keyboards, and countertops will also help to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Follow Your COPD Treatment Plan

At the end of the day, following your COPD treatment plan is just as important as getting vaccinated. Smoking cessation, supplemental oxygen therapy, a consistent exercise routine, and a well-balanced diet will all promote a healthy immune system which is essential for warding off disease, including the novel coronavirus. It will also keep your symptoms in check so that if you do end up getting sick it will be less severe and easier to cope with.

While COPD is not a disease that can be stopped or reversed, a carefully planned treatment regime will significantly reduce adverse symptoms and slow the rate of respiratory decline. It can be overwhelming trying to completely overhaul your lifestyle so you should take things day-by-day and don’t be afraid to reach out to your doctor when you have any questions. Family and friends are also the best people to rely on when you’re facing challenges caused by your disease. 

Conclusion

Like anything healthcare-related, vaccinology is a field that continues to grow and evolve. As new infectious diseases are discovered and others mutate, we need new technology and inventions in order to cope with them. Since the advent of the novel coronavirus in 2019, there’s been an increased emphasis on protecting high-risk individuals such as those with COPD and other chronic conditions as well as people over the age of 65 who have a less-active immune system.

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While there are occasionally risks associated with vaccines, for the most part, they play a crucial role in keeping people safe and healthy, especially those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Fortunately, COVID-19 vaccines are being distributed all across the world for high-risk individuals, so it’s the perfect time to get one if you haven’t already. 

Lastly, you should continue to follow your COPD treatment plan and speak with your doctor regarding your concerns. Supplemental oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation, and a balanced diet all play a crucial role in maintaining your health so it’s important to take a holistic approach to your health.   

It is a lifelong challenge to live with a respiratory disease, whether it is COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, sleep apnea, or any other chronic illness that makes even the most simple activities harder than it once was.

There is no cure, but there are ways to treat your disease, and live with it rather than against it. It sounds like an impossible concept at first, and it is not an easy course of action. It takes dedication, hard work, patience, and the help of loved ones or caregivers. 

You have to maintain a healthy lifestyle, or change your unhealthy lifestyle, quit nasty habits and build new ones. You have to attend your doctors appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation classes,  and keep up with your medication, and oxygen therapy. 

Balancing family becomes increasingly difficult when your respiratory disease becomes more prevalent, so we wrote this blog to help you manage your disease and your family in the healthiest ways possible. 

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In this blog we will go over:

1. How to better manage your medication 
2. How to take advantage of oxygen therapy 
3. How to make time for your family
4. Things you can do with your family
5. Maintaining a healthy relationship with your family through your disease treatment 

Medication 

Taking your medication as a respiratory patient is essential for your health, and knowing how and when to use your medication properly is beneficial for many reasons.

• Peace of mind
• Better mood
• Less symptoms
• More time to spend with family if you are feeling well

Bronchodilator

Most bronchodilators are delivered through an inhaler or through a nebulizer so you breathe the medicine straight into your lungs. Knowing how to operate your inhaler is important because they can be used in different ways. The key is to make sure you are getting a full dose of medicine with each breath, so talk to your doctor about the correct way to use your particular inhaler and when.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are usually prescribed to you in special circumstances when your symptoms are more severe and these can be taken as a pill. These steroids can have major side effects and it is important that while you are taking corticosteroids, you are monitored carefully by a family member or caregiver. It is not uncommon to experience weight gain, diabetes, osteoporosis, cataracts and increased risk of infection.

Antibiotics

It is important to avoid bacterial or viral infections, but when they do occur, this may cause exacerbations where you will experience more coughing, more mucus production and more shortness of breath. In these situations your doctor may prescribe you an antibiotic to keep on hand and to take when you have an infection.

Make sure you take all of the antibiotics exactly as prescribed.

Vaccinations

If you have respiratory disease, contracting illness such as influenza (flu), pneumonia, or the coronavirus causing COVID-19 puts you at an increased risk of infection. Flu vaccines are available to protect you against the seasonal flu so you should be getting immunized every year. You need a flu shot every year because the influenza virus changes slightly every year and the newest vaccine will protect you better from the particular flu strain that year.

There are two vaccines that will protect you against pneumococcal pneumonia, which is a bacterial infection in your lungs that often follows an influenza infection. For this, you only need to get the two vaccines once. 

To read about respiratory disease and vaccines you can read this article: COPD and Vaccinations: Everything You Need to Know.

Medication and your Family 

It is important to take your medication as it is prescribed to you and to get vaccinated. If you go on living without taking the necessary steps to minimize your symptoms and treat your disease, your family will inevitably bear that burden with you.

While your medication will not reverse the damage done by your respiratory disease, taking your medication can open up airways, reduce airway inflammation, and fight bacterial infections making your life easier and more enjoyable. 

How to Take Advantage of Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen therapy is one of the utmost important treatments for lung disease if you have low blood oxygen levels. Using oxygen therapy can reserve hypoxia by increasing your oxygen intake, which can help you live longer, and a higher quality life. 

Traveling with Oxygen 

Traveling to see family members is out of the question for some respiratory patients, but it does not have to be. Visiting family is hugely important for staying in touch and fostering healthy relationships, but if you use a liquid oxygen tank or compressed gas tank traveling by plane is not an option.

If you have a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), you can take your device with you on just about every airline because POCs are FAA approved. 

While we are not advising any respiratory patient to travel far distances during the global COVID-19 pandemic, planning for the future can help cultivate a sense of hope and optimism. Having the correct tools to travel as an oxygen patient is essential for anyone that has to travel by plane to reach loved ones.

If you are going for a road trip, you can charge your battery in the car with the DC adapter that can be plugged into the cigarette lighter of your car, and they are small and compact oxygen devices that are easy to fit in the space by your feet. 

Oxygen and Independence

It is a natural process to begin depending on your family and loved ones once your respiratory disease starts progressing. This relationship can add obvious stress within a family, so finding a sense of independence can ease the tension if there is any.

Portable oxygen concentrators like the Caire Freestyle Comfort have a battery that can last 8 hours on a flow setting of 2 with the 16-cell battery allowing you to be out almost all day long with a sufficient supply of oxygen. 

This peace of mind alone can give you the freedom and independence to run errands on your own, do your own chorus, and help out with other daily activities. Not to mention, that the Caire Freestyle Comfort is only 5 pounds, so you can easily carry it on your own either in its custom carrying case, or inside your own bag.

How to Make Time for your Family

In the midst of a global pandemic spending time with family has never been more complicated.  if you have a respiratory disease it is advisable to not spend time with other people outside of your quarantine bubble.  

If you cannot see your family in person safely, communicating virtually is a great option. 

You can easily learn how to operate systems like Zoom, Google Hangouts, and FaceTime to communicate with family and friends. 

Staying in touch with loved ones can help boost your mood, and give you more energy and ideas for staying busy.

Safe Activities you Can do With your Family

As a respiratory patient, doing certain activities that you once enjoyed might not be as accessible. Your respiratory symptoms will make it harder to do the physical activities you once enjoyed, and your disease can also take a toll on your mental health, mood, and energy. 

We wrote a helpful blog that can help you understand the connection between respiratory disease and mood swings, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues: A Resource Guide for COPD Patients who Struggle with Mental Health.

After addressing your physical and mental limitations, you can start to find activities that you can enjoy doing and spending time with your family. Do not overexert yourself, and find activities that are more suited to your new lifestyle. 

Ideas include:

• Gardening
• Puzzles 
• Board games
• Walking 
• Golf 
• Going to museums 
• Fishing 
• Yoga 
• Tai chi 

Maintaining Healthy Relationships with your Family 

Patience is key when dealing with any illness as a patient and as a caregiver, secondly having a lot of empathy. 

It is easy to forget what others are going through, especially when your respiratory disease is impacting your health in such a strong way. Remembering that your caregiver and/or family members are going through their own trials and tribulations is important for maintaining a healthy relationship with that person. 

Having empathy means having the ability to perceive other people's emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. This idea is crucial for any relationship and especially with family, but it is not always easy.

Understanding the way respiratory disease feels if you are a healthy person is essentially impossible. It is also extremely challenging to convey all of the ways having a respiratory disease feels, because sometimes the symptoms are internal and not obvious to any outsider.

If you have a respiratory disease, it can be helpful to talk to others who are going through similar things as you, and relating to their struggles can help you feel less alone in your disease. You can meet people through pulmonary rehabilitation courses and online respiratory support groups. 

Overview 

Living with a respiratory disease is not easy, and maintaining healthy relationships at the same time is also challenging. 

Not to mention, the pandemic has created a rather secluding environment for people especially if you have a respiratory disease, and connecting with family is harder than ever. We urge you to reach out to your family and friends virtually, and connecting socially can help you improve your energy and overall mood. 

While traveling by plane is not currently the safest option, having an oxygen device that is capable of coming with you on an airplane is a great motivating factor that will encourage you to travel and see your family more often once it is safe. 

It can be defeating to not be capable of doing physical activities you once loved to do, but it is also an opportunity to find new hobbies and activities that you have never tried before, like Tai Chi, golf, or gardening.

Learning new things is a great way to improve your energy and your overall mood as well, and you never know until you try!