If you have a condition such as chronic obstructive respiratory disease or pulmonary fibrosis, it is possible that you will eventually require supplemental oxygen therapy as a main treatment method if you do not already.

The nature of these respiratory diseases is that the conditions tend to get worse overtime due to environmental stress and your body’s natural aging process. Among the 16.4 million people who have reported that they have been diagnosed with COPD, approximately 800,000 for those people also receive long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT). 

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Long term oxygen therapy is an essential part of many people’s daily lives, and if you are one of the 800,000 people utilizing oxygen therapy everyday, it is important to understand all of your options when it comes to oxygen devices. Having the best device for your lifestyle will help you reach your goals so you can live a long and happy life. 

In this blog we want to explain to you all of the ways portable oxygen concentrators differ from traditional oxygen therapy methods like liquid and gas tanks. This will show you how important it is for your wellbeing to own an oxygen device that motivates you to do better rather than just helping you get by. 

Long Term Oxygen Therapy Benefits 

No matter what type of oxygen device you own it is important to first acknowledge the benefits of long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT). LTOT has been widely acknowledged by medical professionals and respiratory specialists as a tool or treatment to increase the life expectancy in patients with severe hypoxemia. 

Out of all of the treatments necessary for managing and living with respiratory conditions such as COPD, oxygen therapy is one of the treatments that can actually add years to a respiratory patient’s life. Of course taking medication, eating a healthy diet, and taking pulmonary rehabilitation courses are all great steps towards living a healthy life with a chronic respiratory disease, but LTOT is the most important on par with quitting smoking. 

If you have COPD and severe resting hypoxemia where your oxygen saturation levels are less than 88% you should be prescribed LTOT for at least 15 hours daily, and your doctor will need to prescribe you oxygen at a specified flow rate. 

Your flow rate will correspond to the severity of your condition in certain situations, for example while you rest or exercise, and you will need to adhere to the oxygen prescription that your doctor wrote in order to take full advantage of your oxygen therapy. 

These benefits include: 

• Reduced shortness of breath
• Increased energy 
• Helps improve quality of sleep 
• Helps to improve exercise tolerance 
• Fewer complications and hospitalizations 
• Increases survival 
• Ability to travel by air with a portable oxygen concentrator

Owning a Portable Oxygen Concentrator 

On the surface, LTOT offers respiratory patients a number of health benefits, but owning a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) gives oxygen patients benefits on a much deeper and a much more human level. Rather than just giving you the oxygen you need to survive, a POC is a tool that gives oxygen patients the ability and confidence to reach their goals, whether that is to start walking more or traveling to see their family and everything in between.

Ability to Exercise 

POCs like the Caire Freestyle Comfort and Inogen oxygen concentrators are very lightweight yet very powerful pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators. Because these devices are lightweight, it makes it easy for you to bring with you on walks, bike, ride, or to your pulmonary rehabilitation classes. 

These devices also have great battery life, meaning you can stay out longer and exercise with your device without anxiety that you will run low on oxygen. The Freestyle Comfort and the Inogen one series  all have the option to upgrade to a larger battery, one that lasts longer even if you have to increase your oxygen output while you are exercising. 

Exercise is critical, even if it is just a walk a day, as a respiratory patient you are benefited greatly from improving your physical strength and your endurance. That being said, physical activity does not always come naturally, and finding the motivation can be difficult. 

Having the right oxygen equipment that will help you to reach your goals makes it easier to find motivation to get up and do a little bit of exercise everyday. Rather than lugging around a heavy oxygen tank, a lightweight portable oxygen concentrator is the perfect accessory for the gym or a walk around the park!

Ability to Travel on an Airplane 

Liquid and gas oxygen tanks are never permitted on any airplane, not in your carry on or checked baggage. Clearly this is limiting oxygen patients everywhere from experiencing the joys of vacation or traveling for their business or career. 

If you have a POC you will be able to travel again with ease and comfort. Even in 2021, during the global pandemic, air travel has more risks associated with the transmission of COVID-19, but as a oxygen patient with a portable oxygen concentrator you will be able to travel again once it is safe with ease. 

Click here to read Everything you Need to Know About Traveling with Oxygen Equipment in 2021  

Saving Money 

Having a chronic illness is expensive, no matter what type of insurance you have, there are a lot of costs associated with hospital and doctor visits, medical equipment, medication, therapy, exercise classes, and so much more. These costs add up over time, and the recurring payments will break the bank overtime. 

Click here to read How to Budget and Afford a Portable Oxygen Concentrator 

One of the most important aspects of owning a portable oxygen concentrator besides the health benefits, are the financial savings. Many people shy away at the first sight of the upfront costs associated with POCs. For example Inogen costs much more than the initiative costs of the most basic oxygen tanks, however, overtime the costs of refilling your oxygen tanks and renting oxygen while you travel will greatly outweigh the upfront cost of a portable oxygen concentrator. 

 Every Time you have to get your tank refilled with oxygen, you have to spend valuable time and money. With a POC, all you have to do is remember to recharge the battery, and you will have oxygen everywhere you go for free!

With a POC you are never wasting oxygen, even if you forget to turn off your device when you aren't using it. There are plenty of times where your oxygen tank will continue to emit oxygen even when it doesn't need to, and every time this happens you are wasting money. 

Peace of Mind You Will Never Run Low on Oxygen 

Beyond the health benefits and the financial savings, you are also giving yourself peace of mind when you have your own portable oxygen concentrators.

Devices like the SeQual Eclipse 5 are known for their durability and reliability. The SeQual Eclipse 5 was actually designed for the U.S. military, and it is one of the most popular continuous flow oxygen devices today. 

When you purchase a new POC from LPT Medical, you will get a 3 year warranty, and even if you decide to buy a used device, you will still get a warranty! The warranty protects you from spending too much money on the rare malfunctions and other issues that may arise. This peace of mind alone gives you the freedom to enjoy life to the fullest and take advantage of all of the benefits oxygen therapy can provide you

Battery Life that Lasts 

Battery life is one of the most important aspects of owning a portable oxygen concentrator, it is essential that you are looking into the battery life of the device you are interested in before you buy one. 

If you need a high oxygen output, understand that the battery life will be affected by this, and it is probably a good idea for you to purchase a bigger battery for your device. For example, inogen systems all come with an inogen 8-cell battery but for an additional yet reasonable cost you can get the bigger Inogen 16-cell battery that will last longer. 

Having two batteries and an external battery charger is the best option for oxygen patients who travel a lot, or simply enjoy being on the go for long periods of time. With the external charger, you can charge one battery while using the other, and switching your batteries is very easy.   

Talk with your respiratory specialist about the battery life of all of the devices you are interested in, and also ask them about buying a larger battery if you are interested in going longer periods of time with your oxygen device. 

Getting a bigger battery is not essential, remember that you can use your oxygen device while you are charging it, so if you like to rest in the middle of the day, this is a perfect opportunity to plug on your POC. Also device like the Caire Freestyle Comfort come equipped with UltraSense Breath Detection Technology, which is a breath detection feature that makes this oxygen unit one of the most efficient and effective on the market. Rather than providing you with a constant stream of oxygen, the Freestyle Comfort delivers oxygen only when a breath is detected. This “bolus” of oxygen is precisely synced with your breathing ensuring no oxygen is wasted. 

This technology is perfect for while you rest in the middle of the day, because your oxygen device will not keep you up or wake you from a nap, it simply give you the oxygen you need and nothing more. 

Overview 

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The benefits of long term oxygen therapy are undeniable, and the lifestyle improvements you gain from owning a POC compared to alternative oxygen devices are also very evident. 

If you are still curious about the differences between owning a POC compared to an oxygen tank please take the time to read some of the blogs on our respiratory resource page, or simply call 1(800)-946-1201 to speak with a respiratory specialist. 

Happiness, an emotional state of being that humans are innately attracted to. Happiness overall embodies positivity and satisfaction, yet it is a subjective well-being that makes an individual truly happy. This means that everyone's happiness is rooted in something unique to them, and their journey through life is fueled by their own desires, and while society can inflict its bias on everyone and sway people into believing there is only one way to be happy, in reality happiness is limitless.

But how can you be happy if you are suffering? If you have COPD, it is fair to say that you are spending a lot of time in discomfort and even in pain, both physical and emotional, so seeking out happiness throughout you COPD diagnosis can seem like a daunting and even impossible task. 

In this blog, we look into your COPD symptoms and how you can ease some of these uncomfortable feelings associated with your disease. Beyond treating your disease there are a few ways that you can begin to feel happy again, and we hope that some of these concepts resonate with you so you can start implementing them into your life. 

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At LPT Medical, our goal is to help respiratory patients nationwide by giving them the oxygen equipment they need at the most affordable price. We offer the very best portable oxygen concentrator on the market that gives respiratory patients the freedom and independence many people crave in order to be happy! Again, happiness is subjective, and unique to every individual, which is why we supply many different brands, makes, and models on POCs, check out our inventory on our website LPTmedical.com, or reach a respiratory specialist based in Denver, CO by calling 1(800)-946-1201 

Happiness is Reliable and Easy Oxygen Equipment 

For many respiratory patients happiness is having oxygen equipment that is not only reliable but helpful. Studies have proven that oxygen therapy prolongs life in patients who are a certain level of hypoxic. So while the oxygen therapy is giving you a quantity of years back, remember that the type of oxygen equipment you are using can impact the quality of those years you are getting back.   

If you utilize oxygen therapy you are most likely using one of these three methods:

1. Portable oxygen concentrators 
2. Liquid oxygen tanks 
3. Gas oxygen tanks 

There are several reasons why POCs give oxygen patients a quality of life that tanks cannot. 

Portability  

First and foremost, is the portable aspect of a POC compared to the two alternative methods. POCs were designed with the active oxygen patient in mind. We wanted to give oxygen patients who were looking to be more active the opportunity to do so without being weighed down by heavy machinery.

POCs like the Caire Freestyle Comfort weight just under 5 pounds and have an ergonomic shape that makes this device easy to carry with you in a Caire Freestyle backpack, or its Caire Freestyle custom carrying case. Have the accessibility to move freely around your home is happiness in itself. But in addition to this you will have the capabilities to exercise more frequently which is known to increase happiness and promote healthy emotional responses, and for many people more exercise means more happiness.  

Battery powered

If you have an oxygen tank, you have to spend a lot of time and money waiting for your oxygen to be delivered to you weekly. Spending all of this cash and waiting around for a delivery service would weigh on anyone. There are often delivery delays that cause unnecessary stress, not to mention additional fees and price jumps for oxygen services that you have been using for years. 

With a POC you are cutting off all dependability you have on other aspects outside of your control. Instead you are responsible for charging your device, and that's it. The Respironics SImplyGo POC is a pulse flow and continuous flow device, and its battery can last up to 3.4 hours, and when it needs to be charged you can do so almost anywhere. With the AC and DC charging cable you will be able to plug in your device at home, in the car or RV, even a boat! 

Because POCs are not oxygen reservoirs, you can travel with your POC on an airplane. And it is no surprise that travel promotes happiness in so many people! If you love to travel, but are limited by your oxygen tanks, it could be very beneficial to you and your happiness to buy a portable oxygen concentrator.

Happiness is Treating your COPD with Care and Attention 

For many people happiness is keeping their COPD symptoms at ease and treating their disease diligently in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Since we already discussed oxygen therapy, there are 6 other main treatments for COPD that can make a very big difference in the quality of life and happiness you are experiencing throughout your diagnosis. All of these treatments can go a long way in easing some of your symptoms and supporting your mental health. 

1. Medication 
2. Quit smoking 
3. Eating a COPD healthy diet 
4. Taking supplements if you have deficiencies 
5. Pulmonary Rehabilitations
6. Therapy and/or support groups 

Happiness is Appreciating the Little Things 

Life is hard, and it's harder if you have COPD. The simplest thing in life, breathing, is being stripped away from you. It is uncomfortable and disheartening. Life seems unfair, and it is in the hardest and most painful moments you have to be strong enough to appreciate the small things in your life that are positive. 

This is so much easier said than done, and it takes effort and time to be able to accomplish this practice. Here are some steps into focusing on the positive things:

1. Start a journal and write down one thing a day that you are grateful for. This can be easy because you can write down something as small as being grateful for a cup of coffee, or the support of a loved one. Try to think of something different everyday. 

3. Connect with your family and friends.Even if you can only do this virtually, try to call and speak with someone that you love once a day, even if it's just for a small amount of time. Humans are very social creatures, and social interaction can promote happiness if you value togetherness. 

4. Try mediation. Mediation is the practice of being in the here and now, which is something everyone struggles with from time to time, and if you have COPD or another chronic illness it is even harder to be present. It is very possible that you are thinking about your next doctor's visit, or how you once love to do something that you are incapable of doing now that you are sick. Thinking about the past and future can cultivate a negative headspace. Mediation helps bring you back to this moment, so you can start to focus on your life right in front of you rather than the past and future moments that are out of your control. 

5. Treat yourself. Understanding that you are in a difficult position and giving yourself credit for going through the trials and tribulations of your disease is a useful way to promote a little bit of happiness in your life here and there. Think about what brings you joy whether it is scoop of ice cream or a new pair of shoes, and go out and get it!! Remember that these little gifts to yourself are sometimes a form of instant gratification, and the happiness you gain from these types of endeavors can be fleeting, but every so often we all need a little pick me up!

Happiness is Being Empathic 

Empathy is an interesting thing, and often confused with sympathy. As a person with COPD, it is easy to forget that the people around you are going through their own challenges, and as small as those hardships may seem to you compared to what you are going through, people’s challenges are relative to them and their experiences. 

If you can find the energy to be empathic to a loved one in your life, you will gain a sense of understanding and more importantly perspective. 

Perspective is the lens in which we see and react to certain situations, the broader and more complex your perspective is the more in control of your emotional state you will be. This means that by taking a step back from the issue or circumstance in front of you you will be able to see the bigger picture and deal with the issue reasonably rather than being intimidated and stressed out by your situation. 

Empathy helps you broaden your perspective by connecting with other people on a level deep enough where you understand that everyone has hardships and while you are suffering and COPD is a very invasive disease, you have the ability to get stronger and deal with your disease and life in general. 

Overview

COPD patients have to be some of the strongest and most willful people on the planet. They are constantly struggling to breathe and experiencing other symptoms on top of that daily. The mental and physical exhaustion is something that a healthy person would ever understand. Yet, here you are, alive!

Happiness is attainable, and as hard as it may seem, if you can find happiness in the simple things if you are able to change your perspective and focus on more positive things. You can also do a lot for your well-being by getting oxygen equipment that promotes a healthy lifestyle.  Lastly, being diligent and treating your COPD can make a huge difference not only for your physical wellbeing but your mental state of mind!

Supplemental oxygen is a type of medical therapy used to treat chronic lung conditions like cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and COPD. The aim of supplemental oxygen is to maintain a patient’s blood oxygen levels which are vital for systemic health. Every organ in the body requires oxygen in order to function properly, so using supplemental oxygen as it’s advised by your doctor can provide you with immense short- and long-term benefits.

Despite how important supplemental oxygen is for respiratory patients, receiving a prescription for oxygen therapy can be a scary experience. You likely have a lot of thoughts and concerns running through your mind and you’re likely overwhelmed by the prospect of being connected to an oxygen delivery device. While these concerns are certainly justified, it’s important to take a step back and begin to clarify your concerns with your doctor. Chances are, as you learn more about oxygen therapy and become more experienced with using it, many of your concerns will begin to disappear.

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To help you organize your thoughts, we’re going to be discussing 14 questions you should ask your pulmonologist about supplemental oxygen therapy. Feel free to either print out this article or take notes so that you know exactly what to ask your doctor during your next visit. If you enjoy this article and you’re looking for more information, be sure to read through our post titled “16 Questions You Should Ask Your Doctor About COPD.”

1.) Is Oxygen a Necessity or a Suggestion?

Chances are, you or someone that you know has fallen back on a prescription at some point. Either you never make it to the pharmacy to pick up your medication or you simply stop using the medication for one reason or another. This Harvard Medical report states that many people either forget to use their medication, or they never fill it due to high copayments. So, naturally, you might wonder whether or not your oxygen therapy prescription will follow a similar trend. As a general rule of thumb, you should take what your doctor says seriously, because it’s unlikely that he/she would make you go out of your way or spend extra money on something that isn’t necessary. However, it doesn’t hurt to address these concerns so that your doctor can clarify the rationale behind your oxygen prescription.

2.) What are the Benefits of Oxygen Therapy?

The second thing you should ask your pulmonary doctor about are the benefits you can expect to reap from using supplemental oxygen. The air around us contains about 21% oxygen, but for someone with impaired lung function, this is not always enough for them to sustain their blood oxygen levels. The goal of oxygen therapy is to provide the lungs with a higher concentration of oxygen in order to reduce the load on the lungs. You may experience additional benefits from using supplemental oxygen based on the severity of your disease. Be sure to ask your doctor about this. 

3.) What is My Flow Rate?

Your flow rate determines the amount of oxygen that you will be receiving when you put on the nasal cannula. It’s imperative that you know the exact amount of oxygen that you should be receiving because inhaling too much oxygen can lead to a condition called oxygen toxicity. This condition results in dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and eventual lung damage. Conversely, receiving too little oxygen will not provide you with the full benefits of supplemental oxygen. 

Oxygen flow is measured using one of two different measurements. Pulse dose oxygen devices are measured in milliliters per minute (ml/min) and continuous flow oxygen devices are measured in liters per minute (LPM). The amount of oxygen that you’re prescribed will be based on the severity of your respiratory impairment, but generally speaking, most people need less than 2 LPM of oxygen.

4.) How Many Hours a Day Should I Use Oxygen?

Knowing how long you should be using oxygen is just as important as knowing your oxygen flow setting. If you’re using oxygen inconsistently, you might see a lot of your respiratory symptoms start to return. Long-term oxygen therapy is usually done for at least several hours a day, and your doctor will work with you to determine the best time to use it. If your doctor prescribes you with 24/7 oxygen, then you should discuss with your doctor about using an oxygen concentrator which doesn’t need to be refilled constantly like oxygen tanks or liquid oxygen tanks.

5.) What Type of Oxygen Device Should I Buy?

You might be surprised to find out how many oxygen devices there are on the market. You’ll have a whole host of options to choose from including traditional oxygen tanks, liquid oxygen tanks, stationary oxygen concentrators, and portable oxygen concentrators. But as someone who’s new to supplemental oxygen, you likely don’t know where to even begin with choosing one of these. Your doctor will likely have some information for you regarding which oxygen devices you should avoid and which ones you should consider.

It’s important to be careful when you’re purchasing an oxygen device. You may encounter companies that try to sell you oxygen without a prescription or that boasts prices that are significantly lower than any other company. However, these are most likely scams. Before making any decisions, be sure to research the company that you’re buying from to make sure that their products are reliable and that they follow all laws and regulations. For more information about how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates oxygen, please visit this page. 

6.) Is it Okay to Adjust My Flow Rate Depending on How I’m Feeling?

If you have a chronic respiratory condition like COPD or pulmonary fibrosis, it’s not uncommon for symptoms to come and go. One day, you might be out of breath or lightheaded and the next you could feel perfectly fine. Because of this, you’re going to want to clarify with your doctor when it’s okay to adjust your oxygen flow and when you should not adjust your oxygen flow. The reason it’s important to ask this question is because your increase in symptoms may be due to something completely unrelated to your blood oxygen levels. In which case, increasing your oxygen flow would not benefit you.

7.) How Can I Track My Blood Oxygen Level?

A pulse oximeter, or pulse ox device, clips onto your finger and measures the saturation of oxygen in your blood (SpO2). They are noninvasive and they work by passing rays of light through your finger to measure the amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin. While they aren’t the most accurate method of measuring blood oxygen levels, they are very lightweight and portable meaning you can pack one in your purse or handbag for easy access. If your doctor hasn’t already provided you with one, it’s worth mentioning it so that you have a way of monitoring your oxygen levels. To learn more about blood oxygen levels, read this post.

8.) Is Oxygen Therapy Safe?

Since oxygen is a controlled substance in the United States and requires a prescription, you may be wondering if it’s even safe to use in the first place. The answer to this question is “yes,” however, there are some things you should be aware of. Firstly, as aforementioned, using more oxygen than you’re prescribed will put you at risk of experiencing oxygen toxicity. Secondly, the safety of oxygen therapy depends heavily on the type of oxygen device you’re using. 

Traditional oxygen tanks are the most dangerous because they contain compressed oxygen and they’re also heavy and bulky. Portable oxygen concentrators are the least dangerous oxygen device because they are lightweight and do not contain compressed oxygen. Oxygen is an “oxidizer” meaning it increases the flammability of anything it comes into contact with. So, you should never smoke near your oxygen device or use it near an open flame.

9.) Should I Be On Oxygen When I Sleep?

If your doctor prescribes you with 24/7 oxygen, you might be wondering how this will work when you’re sleeping. Your breathing rate and depth fluctuate a lot when you sleep so the amount of oxygen that you’re receiving could change throughout the night. This is why it might be worth it to invest in a portable oxygen concentrator like the Caire FreeStyle Comfort or the Inogen One G5. Unlike oxygen tanks, these devices closely monitor your breathing as you sleep and adjust your intake accordingly.

If you have a sleep disorder like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you may need to use your PAP device and your oxygen device at the same time while you sleep. PAP therapy is of critical importance for OSA patients because it keeps their airways open as they sleep allowing them to get restful sleep without interruptions. To use your CPAP device with your oxygen device, you need to be using a continuous flow oxygen unit and have a bleed in adapter that connects the tubing together. The Respironics SImplyGo is the perfect portable oxygen concentrator for CPAP compatibility.

10.) How Can I Eliminate Discomfort While on Supplemental Oxygen?

For the most part, oxygen therapy shouldn’t cause any discomfort. However, some people encounter issues with the nasal cannula such as irritation inside the nose due to dryness or some other reason. Humidifiers can actually be attached to your oxygen device to help ease the discomfort and there are a number of other accessories you can purchase that make the process more comfortable. We actually wrote a guide discussing some of the issues oxygen patients face and how to solve them. Check it out here. 

11.) Can I Exercise on Oxygen?

Consistent moderate exercise is crucial for pulmonary wellness. Not only does exercise improve the strength of your lungs but it also increases the efficiency that your heart pumps oxygen throughout your body. So, just because you’ve started oxygen therapy does not mean that you should stop exercising. Check out this post which has some tips for exercising with an oxygen device and be sure to ask your doctor for advice as well.

12.) What Do I Need to Know to Travel With Oxygen?

Traveling around the world with COPD is much easier than ever before thanks to portable oxygen concentrators. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the organization that oversees all commercial flights in the United States has approved most POCs for in-flight use. However, to make sure you have everything you need, you should contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight. Most airlines require that you have at least one and a half times as much battery life as the duration of the flight. This will make up for any delays that may occur before and after you land.

13.) How Do I Maintain My Oxygen Device?

With the advent of the novel coronavirus, cleaning has taken on a whole new meaning. No matter what type of oxygen device you decide to use, you should take the time to clean it regularly. What’s more, nasal cannulae and oxygen tubing should be replaced every two weeks to ensure it’s clean and ready for use. If you purchase a portable oxygen concentrator you should remove the particle filters each week and wash them off. This will ensure that the air you’re inhaling through the cannula is clean and free of dust and dirt.

14.) Will I Need to Get Retested For Supplemental Oxygen?

Doctors typically use arterial blood gas analysis, pulse oximetry, and various lung tests to determine your need for supplemental oxygen. However, you may need to take on-going tests to help your doctor determine whether or not you still need oxygen in the future. Ask your doctor what kind of tests you will need to take and how often you should come in for a checkup once you are using your oxygen device. Some patients find it helpful to get a certificate of medical necessity which can help you file insurance claims and apply for benefits.

Conclusion

Supplemental oxygen is a very important facet of your treatment regime if you have COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, or any other number of lung conditions. Unfortunately, it’s something that takes time to get used to and learn about if you’ve never done it before. Many people don’t even know what questions they should be asking their doctor so we hope that this guide will help with demystifying oxygen therapy.

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Here at LPT Medical, we take your search for an oxygen therapy device very seriously. We work with some of the top brands in the industry such as Inogen, Respironics, AirSep, and Caire in order to provide our patients with the best oxygen devices on the market for an affordable price. Our respiratory specialists will work with you one-on-one to determine what your medical needs are, then they will help you narrow down your options based on your lifestyle and preferences. We also have a number of buying options like new, refurbished, and used units so you can choose which one best fits your needs.

Feel free to reach out to us either by email or phone to get started finding an oxygen device for you.

Respiratory conditions are some of the most common illnesses in the world. According to HealthDay, about one in every seven people in the United States has some type of respiratory disorder such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and some people have more than one. While many people are aware of what kinds of lung diseases there are, there isn’t a lot of awareness surrounding the global burden of lung disease and how much harm they actually cause.

Although COPD is a disease that develops slowly over the course of many years, it puts the patient at risk for many other conditions such as recurring lung infections, pulmonary hypertension, and even cardiovascular disease. In this post, we’re going to take a look at one of the lesser-known side-effects of COPD called acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We’ll discuss exactly what this condition is, its symptoms, as well as how it’s linked to COPD and other chronic illnesses.

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As always, if you have any questions about what you read here, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. 

What is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome?

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a life-threatening condition that causes the tiny air sacs in the lungs called alveoli to fill with fluid. It’s referred to as an “acute” illness because it usually develops quickly and without much warning. Since the alveoli are responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the blood, patients with ARDS will experience a sharp decline in their blood oxygen levels. This is called hypoxemia, and over time, it can lead to tissue and organ damage because they rely on oxygen to function properly.

ARDS is considered a type of respiratory failure. This is an umbrella term that includes a wide range of chronic and acute conditions like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and asthma. There are fewer than 200,000 cases of acute respiratory distress syndrome each year making it a fairly uncommon condition. The survival rate of ARDS is between 50% and 70%. Symptoms of ARDS vary from patient to patient, but severe shortness of breath, low blood pressure, and confusion or dizziness are the most common. 

In ARDS, the lungs go through several different phases. These phases vary from patient-to-patient but we’ve outlined the basics of each for your convenience.

Exudative

“Exudate” is a term that refers to the buildup of fluid due to cellular damage or inflammation. In the case of an ARDS patient, water, protein, and inflammatory and red blood cells leak from surrounding blood vessels into the alveoli, preventing the transfer of oxygen into the blood. What also occurs during this phase is reduced lung compliance. In other words, the lungs become stiff, losing a lot of the elasticity that allows you to fill them with air fully. This is why mechanical ventilation is often the first step in solving ARDS because it reduces the physical burden of breathing for the patient.

Proliferative

Cell proliferation is when a cell grows and divides into two daughter cells. The type of proliferation that occurs in ARDS is called fibroproliferation and it’s when the alveolar structure begins to repair itself and re-establish the barrier function. This is also when fibroblasts begin to proliferate. Fibroblasts are the most common cell found in connective tissue. They secrete the protein collagen which creates a structural framework for many tissues in your body. Typically, the proliferative phase of ARDS lasts around 7 to 14 days after the incident.  

Fibrotic

The final stage of ARDS is known as the fibrotic stage. Pulmonary fibrosis refers to the development of scar tissue in the lungs. If inflammation and fluid buildup continue in the lungs it can lead to the formation of scar tissue which puts you at a high risk of pneumothorax. This is when one or both of the lungs deflate. Check out this article we wrote that discusses pneumothorax in detail.  

What Causes Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome?

Acute respiratory distress syndrome causes are divided into two different categories: direct (pulmonary or primary) lung injury or indirect (extrapulmonary or secondary) lung injury. Direct lung injury occurs within the lung epithelium and indirect lung injury is a systemic disorder that diffusely damages the lung epithelium.

Primary Lung Injuries that Cause ARDS

Pneumonia

Pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome are very similar. They both result in the buildup of fluid in the alveoli of the lungs. However, pneumonia is caused by either a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, whereas ARDS has a number of direct and indirect causes. Pneumonia is very common with over 3 million cases in the United States each year. Pneumonia can be a life-threatening condition for infants, people over the age of 65, and people with serious underlying health conditions.

Certain types of pneumonia can be prevented with vaccinations and bacterial infections can be treated effectively with the use of antibiotics. Pneumonia progresses to ARDS when the fluid buildup does not improve and the patient experiences worsening breathlessness and inability to breathe without the use of a ventilator. According to an article published in the Oxford Medical Journal, pneumonia is responsible for 31% of all patients who develop ARDS.

Thoracic Trauma

Thoracic trauma is another way of saying physical trauma that’s done to the chest. According to Science Direct, trauma patients account for 10% to 30% of all patients who develop ARDS. If you experience a chest injury, no matter the severity, be sure to speak with your doctor about the potential risk of developing ARDS.

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Smoke or Gas Inhalation

Airborne particles like smoke and gas are a risk factor or direct cause of many chronic lung conditions like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and more. People who work in industrial settings are highly susceptible to respiratory complications because they’re often exposed to high levels of air pollution for prolonged periods of time. However, everyone is at risk of the negative effects of air pollution. Visit AirNow.gov to learn more about the air quality in your area.

Secondary Lung Injuries that Cause ARDS

Severe Sepsis

Sepsis is a blood condition that results when you have an unusual reaction to an infection. In a normal immune response, your body sends immune cells and various chemicals to fight off the threat. However, sepsis occurs when the immune response spreads throughout your body causing inflammation. If sepsis is severe enough, it can begin to damage organs throughout your body including the lungs. Any type of infection can cause sepsis, so it’s important to keep an eye out for the warning signs.

The group of people most likely to experience sepsis are people over the age of 65 and people with weakened immune systems, so people with diabetes or an autoimmune disease are at high risk The symptoms of sepsis include confusion, body aches, shortness of breath, a fever, and a high heart rate. Sepsis typically develops pretty quickly after an infection, but the longer it prolongs without being treated, the higher the risk there is of the patient developing severe sepsis. Antibiotics are the primary treatment method for sepsis, but if damage has already been done, the patient may require surgery in order to remove damaged tissue.

Pancreatitis

The pancreas is an organ that sits just behind the lower part of the stomach. It’s part of the endocrine system and it’s responsible for secreting hormones and fluids that assist with the digestion of sugars, fats, and starches. Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed and it’s unable to perform its job correctly. Pancreatitis is usually caused by collateral damage from abdominal surgery, alcoholism, certain medications, or gallstones. It can also be acute, coming on quickly, or chronic, developing slowly over the course of many years. Similar to sepsis patients, pancreatitis patients may experience inflammation in other parts of the body due to the release of chemicals into the bloodstream.

Drug Overdose

According to PubMed, alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, benzodiazepines, and opiates can all cause acute respiratory distress syndrome. Studies have shown that about 10% of all ARDS cases are drug induced.  

How are ARDS and COPD Linked?

ARDS and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are commonly confused, but they are not the same condition. Whereas ARDS is a condition that develops quickly and can often be life-threatening if it’s not treated quickly, COPD is a condition that develops over the course of many years. About 85 to 90% of COPD cases are caused by cigarette smoking, whereas ARDS has a number of different causes, some of which we have listed above. Although COPD doesn’t directly cause ARDS, it is a risk factor.

COPD is very uncommon in people under the age of 40, so the demographic of COPD patients alone puts them at a higher risk of ARDS. Secondly, the vast majority of COPD patients are either current smokers or have smoked in the past. It’s estimated that around 30% of COPD patients are current smokers. Smoking is known to have a number of adverse effects on the immune system including increased susceptibility to influenza and pneumonia. 

What’s more, smokers experience more severe and longer-lasting illness due to a lack of protective antioxidants in the blood. Current or previous smokers are at a higher risk of contracting and experiencing severe symptoms from sepsis, pneumonia, and pancreatitis, all of which are causes of ARDS.  

How is ARDS Treated?

Mechanical Ventilation

A ventilator is a device that assists a patient with the physical act of breathing. Since ARDS causes the lungs to fill with fluid, breathing becomes very labored meaning the patient will struggle to catch a breath and they may even struggle to expel air from the lungs. The ventilator will ensure that the patient is able to completely fill their lungs.

Supplemental Oxygen

Oxygen therapy differs from ventilation in that the air is not forced into the patient’s lungs. Rather, a high concentration of oxygen is released into either a nasal cannula or an oxygen mask and then it’s inhaled by the patient. Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may put you on both a ventilator and supplemental oxygen. Maintaining healthy blood oxygen levels is imperative because it promotes the proper function of all organs in your body, thus reducing the risk of complications due to ARDS.

Fluid Management

In order to get ARDS patients off of ventilation and supplemental oxygen the fluid that has built up in the lungs needs to be drained. This is a very difficult task because consuming too many fluids can exacerbate this issue and consuming none could lead to heart and kidney problems. Many doctors will prescribe a medication called a diuretic which helps them gradually release fluids from their system. 

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)

ECMO is an extremely complex process that involves removing blood from the body, removing carbon dioxide, then re-oxygenating it and putting it back in the body. Essentially, this process allows medical specialists to bypass the heart and lungs allowing them to heal. ECMO is only done in medical emergencies because there are a lot of risks involved.

How Can ARDS be Prevented?

Smoking Cessation

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable illness in the world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smokers have a life expectancy that is 10 years less than that of nonsmokers. Smoking not only damages and inflames the lungs, but it also suppresses your immune system which is needed to fight off infections that can cause ARDS.

Get Vaccinated

If you’re someone who’s at high risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome, getting vaccinated for pneumonia, influenza, and other diseases could be life-saving. However, before getting any vaccines you should speak with your doctor who will examine your medical history and help you determine which vaccines you should get and which ones to avoid. It’s estimated that about 5% of critical coronavirus (COVID-19) cases lead to ARDS so if you’re concerned about this, address them with your doctor.

Visit a Doctor if You’re Sick

Most healthy people simply stay home if they’re sick. However, if you’re at high risk for ARDS, you should keep in touch with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. Since ARDS develops quickly and it can be life-threatening, it’s best to know ahead of time what the warning signs are so that you can visit the emergency room.   

Conclusion

COPD and ARDS are two separate conditions, but they are linked in a number of ways. Firstly, the damage to the alveoli in ARDS patients is similar to that found in emphysema patients. What’s more, COPD patients are more likely to experience severe ARDS in relation to the general population. Many COPD patients are smokers which also puts them at a high risk of experiencing ARDS. If you want to reduce your risk of severe respiratory events like this, your best bet is to follow your treatment plan and quit smoking immediately. It’s also important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience a traumatic injury or develop a lung infection.

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One of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself if you have COPD is to follow your daily treatment plan. This includes maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet, sticking to a moderate and consistent exercise routine, and keeping your blood oxygen levels normal. At LPT Medical, we aim to simplify your oxygen therapy routine by offering low-cost and convenient oxygen devices called portable oxygen concentrators. Devices like the Caire FreeStyle Comfort and Inogen One G5 weigh under 5 pounds and they’re small enough to carry under your shoulder without discomfort. Since portable oxygen concentrators are electronic devices, you simply need to keep them charged.

Give us a call or send us an email today to speak with an oxygen concentrator specialist.

If you’ve been prescribed supplemental oxygen, you’ve likely taken some time to research what options are available to you in the way of oxygen machines. On one hand, you could go with a standard oxygen tank which is heavy, bulky, and difficult to move around. Or on the other, you could go with a portable oxygen concentrator which is light and easy to maneuver.

Unfortunately, many people are quick to turn down portable oxygen machines because they believe they will be too expensive. This is understandable, as just a quick Google search will bring up a whole variety of options, many of which can be as much as $3,000 or more. However, this is oftentimes misleading as many oxygen retailers are required to advertise the MSRP of a device, rather than the price that they’re actually selling it for which could be much less.

Another thing these price listings don’t show you are the many different conditions you can buy a POC in, as well as the financing options that make it much easier to pay for. We wanted to take the time to clarify the difference between used, refurbished, and new oxygen concentrators as well as different payment options such as financing. Read on to learn more and be sure to contact our respiratory specialists at 1-888-416-3855 if you have any questions.

New Portable Oxygen Concentrators

When you purchase a new portable oxygen concentrator, you are purchasing a unit that has never been opened or used. While the manufacturer might test the device before it is packaged and sent out to retailers, once the seal is broken on the packaging, it’s no longer considered a “new” portable oxygen device.

One of the biggest benefits of buying a new portable oxygen concentrator is that all of the components will be in pristine condition and it will be protected under a “manufacturer’s warranty.” What this means is that if the device stops working for whatever reason during an allotted period of time, you’ll be able to send it in for free repairs or a full replacement.

Manufacturer’s warranties vary based on the company that made the oxygen machine and the specific unit you’re looking to buy. However, the standard warranty for POCs tends to be around 3 years. What’s more, these warranties can often be extended to 5-year or even lifetime warranties which protect the device forever as long as you’re the original owner.

Another benefit of purchasing a new portable oxygen concentrator is that all the accessories that come along with it will be new. This includes things like the carrying case, shoulder strap, batteries, oxygen tubing, filter, and charging cables.

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Used Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Just like it sounds, a used or pre-owned portable oxygen concentrator is one that has been previously owned by another oxygen patient. Contrary to popular belief, “used” is not synonymous with “untested.” Here at LPT Medical, we don’t accept any portable oxygen concentrator return and immediately ship it out to another buyer. Every returned POC we receive is sent through a rigorous testing procedure to make sure everything is in good working condition before being sent out to another buyer.

Of course, the benefit of buying a secondhand portable oxygen concentrator rather than a new one is that you will be able to get a better deal. Depending on the unit that you’re looking at, you might be able to find a used POC that’s marked down several hundred to a thousand dollars less than what it retailed at leaving you with some great savings.

Refurbished Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Many people are confused about how a refurbished portable oxygen concentrator differs from a new or used one. Just like a used POC, refurbished ones have been previously owned by another oxygen patient. However, whereas used machines may have had minor repairs and cleaning done to them, a refurbished one has had more major repairs done to it that could significantly improve its lifespan.

For example, one of the most important parts of a POC is the sieve beds. These are special filters that remove nitrogen, argon, and other impurities from the air that make it possible for you to receive medical-grade oxygen. If we receive a unit that has faulty or worn-out sieve beds, they will be replaced and the unit will be sold as “refurbished.” This same process will be done with any other component that is worn out or not working properly.

Usually, refurbished portable oxygen concentrators cost a bit more than used ones because they are either sent back to the manufacturer or to a verified service center where they can be looked at by an expert. But they also won’t run you as much as a new portable oxygen concentrator. 

Renting a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Portable oxygen concentrator rental is a lesser-known option, but it’s still something to consider. Renting is usually best for people who typically use oxygen tanks or home oxygen concentrators but they’re planning a trip and want something more portable to take along. In this situation, renting would be a cost-effective option because you won’t have to pay for the whole unit.

Renting is usually not advised if you’re planning on using the portable oxygen concentrator for more than a couple of weeks. There are a lot of factors to consider before renting a portable oxygen concentrator, so be sure to consult with your respiratory specialist to help you work out the math and ensure that you’re saving as much money as possible.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator Financing

For some people, paying for a portable oxygen concentrator over several months or years is much more convenient or manageable than paying for it upfront. Just like a car, portable oxygen concentrators can be financed, allowing you to make low monthly payments assuming you qualify based on your credit history. But don’t fret if you don’t qualify, because you can have a friend or a family member qualify for you, then you can simply pay them back. Be sure to consult with your respiratory specialist if you have any questions about POC financing.

Trading in an Oxygen Device

Another way to save some money on a new portable oxygen machine is to trade in an old oxygen device that you no longer need. Many people don’t realize that this is an option, so they leave their outdated oxygen machine sitting around the house gathering dust. Trading it to an oxygen retailer not only means making a little money, but it’s nice to know that you could be helping another oxygen patient too.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator Sales

Last but certainly not least, you’ll have the option of buying a portable oxygen concentrator while it’s on sale. We’re always looking for new ways to offer our customers great deals and promotions on our most popular units. Currently, we are offering a free Thrive ePulmonary Advanced Workshop with the purchase of any new portable oxygen concentrator. This is a $497 value!

With this course, you’ll receive step-by-step disease management and breathing technique routines, access to private support, e-books, guides, and much more. While this isn’t designed to replace pulmonary rehab or any other treatment plan that your doctor created for you, it does make it easier to learn about your disease and how to better manage it.

Tips For Choosing a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Final Thoughts

Unfortunately, finding the right portable oxygen concentrator for the right price is not always easy. You’ve likely already done some research and discovered that there are many factors to take into consideration such as the specifications of the unit itself, the condition of the unit, and payment methods like financing.

If you’re overwhelmed with all of the options available to you, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our respiratory specialists here at LPT Medical. We’ll start by understanding your medical needs as an oxygen patient, then we’ll zero in on the concentrator that’s right for you based on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. 

Anyone who reads our articles regularly should be pretty well-acquainted with the term chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It’s one of the leading causes of death in the United States and it’s largely caused by preventable risk factors like cigarette smoke and air pollution. But there’s another common lung disease that’s often overlooked due to its many similarities with COPD. This disease is called bronchiectasis (brong-kee-EK-ta-sis).

Bronchiectasis is a condition that leads to permanent damage in the bronchial tubes, the main passageway leading to the lungs. As the airways widen and thicken, bacteria and mucus begin to build up leading to frequent infections and blockages. While there is no cure for bronchiectasis, it can be managed effectively and further damage can be prevented with a proper treatment plan.

While bronchiectasis has a lot in common with COPD, asthma, and cystic fibrosis (CF), these are all different conditions. In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about bronchiectasis including symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and more. We’ll also help you clarify these conditions so that you don’t get them confused. If you have any questions, be sure to fill out the contact form at the side of the page so that one of our respiratory specialists can reach out to you.

What is Bronchiectasis?

The respiratory system is much more complicated than it appears on the surface. While its primary function is to bring oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide, the lungs rely on a whole host of other factors in order for this process to work as it should.

One of the most important functions is the production and use of secretions like mucus, phlegm, and sputum. While you may know these as the annoying substances you cough up when you’re sick, they also play a vital role in the respiratory process. 

Mucus — a sticky and slimy substance — is part of your innate immune system, your body’s natural defense against foreign invaders. It’s produced by the mucous membranes in the nose and sinuses. Phlegm is a similar substance but it’s produced in the lungs and the lower respiratory tract airways.

In a healthy person, mucus lines the throat, lungs, and nasal passages keeping it from drying out or becoming inflamed. It also acts as a sort of filter by trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles that could damage your lungs. It even has antibodies in it that work to locate and neutralize bacteria that enter your body.

Normally, mucus is able to flow freely throughout the respiratory system, but in a patient with bronchiectasis, it becomes stuck in the lungs due to abnormal dilation of the bronchi. This results in what the American Thoracic Society refers to as the “vicious cycle hypothesis” of bronchiectasis. Here’s an overview of what this looks like:

1. Abnormal mucus clearance
2. Bacterial colonization
3. Neutrophil inflammation (proteases)
4. Airway destruction (bronchiectasis)
5. Repeat

Let’s take an in-depth look at each one of these steps.

Abnormal mucus clearance

Mucociliary clearance is one of the most essential innate defense mechanisms of the lungs. During this process, the protective mucus layer, cilia, and the airway surface liquid layer work to remove mucus and potentially harmful foreign substances from the lungs.

The cilia are specialized organelles found in the respiratory tract. They move in a rhythmic pattern that keeps mucus and harmful substances from getting trapped. However, a condition known as primary cilia dyskinesia (PCD) results in abnormal cilia and an inability of the body to clear mucus properly — as a result, this is often the first step in the development of bronchiectasis.

Asthma and Cystic Fibrosis (CF) are two other conditions associated with the pathogenesis of abnormal mucociliary clearance. Studies have found that asthma patients who have a difficult time managing their disease are more likely to experience complications that can lead to bronchiectasis. 

Another factor that impacts the clearance of mucus is the contents and viscosity of the mucus itself. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). This gene is responsible for providing instructions for creating a channel that transports particles into and out of the cells. This often impairs the flow of water in tissues, leading to viscous mucus that doesn’t flow freely.  

Oftentimes, medical experts will categorize bronchiectasis into one of two groups: cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (CFB) or non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB). CFB patients will likely need to be treated for their underlying cystic fibrosis symptoms in order to see notable improvements whereas NCFB patients may require any number of treatments depending on what is causing the abnormal mucus clearance. 

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Bacterial colonization

The term “colonization” simply refers to the gathering of bacteria on a surface such as the airways, skin, mouth, or intestines. In the case of bronchiectasis, bacteria begin to colonize in the bronchial tubes, the airways that lead to the lungs. If the immune system isn’t able to neutralize the bacteria, it could lead to an infection.  

Neutrophil inflammation (proteases)

A neutrophil is a white blood cell that fights infections and heals damaged tissue in the body. A low neutrophil count in the body (neutropenia) is associated with an increased risk of infection, whereas a high neutrophil count (neutrophilia) is typically caused by infection or injury. 

Airway destruction (bronchiectasis)

The final part of the cycle is airway destruction. Repeated instances of infection and airway inflammation eventually lead to permanent and irreversible damage to the airways. Normally, the bronchial tubes narrow smoothly towards each lung allowing for air to easily transfer into and out of the body. However, inflammation caused by bronchiectasis will eventually cause the bronchial tubes to become scarred and ineffective. The cilia which help to move mucus will also be damaged.  

Symptoms of Bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis symptoms can take months or years to develop making it a difficult condition to detect. Like many lung conditions, bronchiectasis is often shrugged off as natural signs of aging or it’s confused with other conditions like asthma or COPD. Regardless, there are a number of symptoms you should look out for if you think you have bronchiectasis:

• A persistent, chronic cough
• Frequent production of sputum
• Chest pain
• Recurring chest infections
• shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Coughing and wheezing
  
  

Since bronchiectasis is a progressive disease, you may notice symptoms becoming worse over time. For example, after getting sick, you may notice more chest pain, tightness or breathlessness. Severe bronchiectasis may lead to more serious conditions such as low oxygen levels, collapsed lung, respiratory failure, or even heart failure. 

Common Causes of Bronchiectasis

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that can occur in one or both lungs. It causes inflammation in the alveoli, tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchial tubes that are responsible for transferring oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from the blood. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. 

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is another common cause of bronchiectasis. This is a highly contagious infection that typically attacks the lungs, but it can spread to other parts of the body too including the spine and the brain. In the early 1900s, it was a leading cause of death, but it has a much better survival rate now because of the widespread use of antibiotics to treat it. 

Aspiration

The term “aspiration” refers to a substance such as saliva, food, or medicine entering the lungs. Sometimes, this can be harmless, but other times it can lead to choking or even a serious infection known as aspiration pneumonia. This is typically not contagious and is usually treated with antibiotics.

Obstructive airway disease

Obstructive airway diseases like asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis can all be significant contributors to the onset of bronchiectasis because they impair a person’s ability to clear mucus and may even contribute to compromised immunity. Your doctor will closely monitor your condition to ensure that all underlying conditions are accounted for.

Risk Factors of Bronchiectasis

Risk factors of bronchiectasis include the following:

• Age — bronchiectasis can be contracted at all ages, but it’s much more common in people over the age of 65.
• Gender — bronchiectasis is more common in women due to hormone types and hormonal events such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause.
• Cystic fibrosis — while only about half of bronchiectasis cases are caused by CF, 50 to 70 percent of children with CF have bronchiectasis by 3 to 5 years of age.
• Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
• Cilia function disorders
• Autoimmune disease
• Immunodeficiency
  
  

How is Bronchiectasis Diagnosed?

Unfortunately, bronchiectasis is commonly underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to the fact that it has so many similar symptoms to conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD. In these situations, it may go months or years without being treated effectively. To avoid this, your doctor may perform any number of tests that can rule out other conditions.

First and foremost, your doctor will take a look at your medical history. The following may indicate that you’re at a higher risk of contracting bronchiectasis:

• Family history of bronchiectasis
• A history of childhood respiratory symptoms or infection
• Smoking history
• Evidence of an inflammatory disorder (muscle pain, skin rashes, or joint problems)
• Frequent infective exacerbations

Next, your doctor will perform a clinical examination. This includes the following:

• Pulmonary function tests (PFT) such as spirometry or peak flow
• Testing for the presence of sputum
• Tests for a systemic inflammatory disorder
• Stethoscope testing to check for irregular noises in the lungs
• Blood or sweat tests can be used to rule out different types of bronchiectasis (CF bronchiectasis or non-bronchiectasis)
  
  

Last but not least, your doctor may use high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) to check for bronchiectasis symptoms. He/she will look for the following:

• Bronchial wall dilation
• Lack of bronchial tapering
• Lobar collapse
• Mycetoma formation
• Aspergillus fumigatus
  
  

HRCT tends to be the most conclusive diagnostic tool for determining the type and severity of bronchiectasis. However, your doctor will likely use many of the methods above in order to more accurately diagnose your condition.  

How is Bronchiectasis Treated?

Bronchiectasis treatment is varied and depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In general, it can be treated with physical therapy, hydration, and medicines. However, if the bronchiectasis is isolated, your doctor may recommend surgery. Conversely, if the bronchiectasis is widespread and you risk respiratory failure, he/she may recommend oxygen therapy.

The objective of bronchiectasis treatment is to remove mucus from the lungs, treat infections quickly, treat underlying conditions that could be causing bronchiectasis, and to prevent any life-threatening complications. While bronchiectasis is a progressive disease, breaking the “vicious cycle” we discussed earlier can prove extremely effective in slowing the progression of the disease. 

Antibiotics

An antibiotic is a type of medicine that helps prevent and stop infections that are caused by bacteria. If you’re suffering from a viral infection, your doctor will not prescribe antibiotics because they will not be effective.

Mucus Thinners

Because bronchiectasis patients have poor mucociliary clearance, they usually need to take medication that can assist with removing mucus from the lungs. Expectorants are a type of medication that loosens mucus so that it can be coughed up. Mucus thinners like acetylcysteine can also help with this process. 

Hydration

Hydration is important for everyone, but for bronchiectasis patients, it could be a matter of life and death. Your doctor will likely put you on a strict diet requiring you to drink a certain amount of water each day. You might need to avoid alcohol and food that’s high in sodium as well. 

Physical Therapy

Chest physical therapy (CPT) or physiotherapy is a chest percussion technique that’s used to loosen and dislodge mucus that gets stuck in the lungs. More often than not, this procedure is done by your doctor or a trained professional but self-treatment is sometimes advised with the use of tools like inflatable therapy vests. These use high-frequency airwaves to force mucus into your upper chest making it easier to clear.   

Other Treatments

The above treatments are commonly used to treat bronchiectasis but in rare cases, other treatment options may be advised. These include bronchodilators that relax muscles in the airways; corticosteroids used to reduce inflammation; and oxygen therapy to raise blood oxygen levels. In very rare cases, surgery may be advised.

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Bronchiectasis Prevention Methods

While bronchiectasis is largely brought on by genetics, there are several lifestyle changes that you can make to reduce your chances of contracting it. 

• Maintain proper hygiene, i.e. wash your hands, sanitize your home and workplace.
• Ensure you are up-to-date on annual influenza and pneumonia vaccines.
• Seek immediate treatment for lung symptoms like a chronic cough, chest pain, and chest tightness.
• Avoid harmful airborne irritants like car exhaust, fumes, and cigarette smoke.

As with most chronic lung conditions, early prevention and diagnosis are key. The sooner you can implement these prevention techniques, the better your outcome will be.

Bronchiectasis Versus COPD

While bronchiectasis and COPD may produce some similar symptoms, they’re very different diseases. COPD is one of the most common morbidities, affecting about 16 million people in the United States alone. It’s primarily caused by preventable means such as the inhalation of cigarette smoke and other harmful airborne contaminants — about 85 to 90 percent of COPD patients have smoked. 

Bronchiectasis, on the other hand, is far less common than COPD. It’s estimated that 110,000 people have bronchiectasis in the United States and it affects people of all ages. Unlike COPD, lung damage from bronchiectasis is the result of severe and recurrent lung infections that damage the bronchial tubes, and in turn, lead to more infections. Studies have shown that comorbidities of COPD and bronchiectasis are common, but researches don’t yet know all the details about their correlation. 

Conclusion

Bronchiectasis receives far less media attention than conditions like COPD, asthma, and lung cancer, but it’s one that everyone should be aware of regardless of your age. The good news is that, with early diagnosis and proper lifestyle changes, bronchiectasis patients will see a huge improvement in their quality of life and life expectancy.

Ultimately, your best course of action is to make healthy lifestyle choices like exercising frequently, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding cigarettes or other drugs. If you experience chest pain, frequent lung infections, or any of the symptoms listed above, be sure to visit your doctor or pulmonologist immediately.