If you tuned into our blog last month, you probably saw our unboxing and review video for the GCE Zen-O Lite. This machine is one of the top-selling pulse dose portable oxygen concentrators on the market weighing in at under 6 pounds and providing oxygen patients with up to 1,050 milliliters of oxygen per minute (ml/min of O2). The Zen-O Lite is ideal for people who want to be able to get out of the house and enjoy their freedom while still receiving the medical oxygen they need to stay healthy.

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On the other hand, if your doctor has prescribed you continuous flow oxygen, you’re going to need either a stationary oxygen concentrator or a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator. In the video above, you’ll see us unbox the GCE Zen-O continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator and you’ll learn about its specs. If the Zen-O Lite caught your eye but doesn’t provide you with enough oxygen, read on as we take a look at some of the benefits of the GCE Zen-O. In the meantime, if you have any questions about supplemental oxygen therapy or oxygen devices, please reach out to our specialists either by phone or email.

More Freedom for More Oxygen Patients

One of the struggles that most oxygen patients have faced is maintaining their freedom and independence while they are on oxygen. While oxygen tanks have provided them with a reliable source of oxygen for many decades, they’re simply too heavy and bulky to be practical in day-to-day life. Even if you use a rolling cart to alleviate some of the weight, you still have to deal with the tank potentially getting caught on something or bumping into someone as you’re navigating crowded areas.

Liquid oxygen tanks were a huge improvement over traditional oxygen tanks in that they were much lighter and smaller. It was now possible to carry an oxygen device on your shoulder that was reliable. However, these tanks still had several glaring issues with them. The units themselves were costly to buy and they were even more expensive to refill week after week. As a result, many people had to rule out liquid oxygen tanks as an option.  

The thing that’s unique about continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators like the GCE Zen-O is that it provides oxygen patients with the versatility of traditional oxygen tanks and liquid oxygen tanks but it rules out many of the downsides that they have. For example, the GCE Zen-O does not need to be refilled like an oxygen tank, you simply need to have access to either a wall outlet or a car outlet where you can recharge the batteries. This eliminates the hassle of having to stop what you’re doing and run home or to your nearest oxygen company to have your device refilled.

Another benefit of the GCE Zen-O is that it provides both continuous flow and pulse dose oxygen delivery in one unit. This differs from oxygen tanks which require something called an oxygen conserving device (oxygen conserver) which helps you extend the duration of your oxygen supply. As an oxygen patient, this just adds one more thing that you have to worry about when you should be out enjoying your life.

One of the Lightest Concentrators of its Kind

Weight is a major factor to consider when it comes to choosing an oxygen device. Generally speaking, most people are not satisfied with the weight of their oxygen device, because the more you carry, the more energy you exert, and thus, you’ll need more oxygen in order to compensate. This is a vicious cycle and it’s one of the main reasons many people choose to simply stay home to avoid the hassle of using medical oxygen on the go.

Fortunately, the experts at GCE have worked hard to ensure their concentrators are both lightweight and provide patients with the oxygen they need to stay healthy. The GCE Zen-O weighs in at just 10 pounds making it the lightest continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator on the market (alongside the Respironics SimplyGo). Despite the low weight, this concentrator provides users with between 0.5 and 2.0 liters of oxygen per minute (LPM) and pulse dose settings 1 through 6.

The GCE Zen-O is one of the few continuous flow concentrators that can be carried on your shoulder comfortably. However, many people still prefer to wheel their Zen-O rather than carry it. This is why every package sold comes with both a custom carrying case with a padded shoulder strap, in addition to a travel cart that does all the heavy lifting for you. Be sure to assess the situation and choose whichever method is best for you. 

A Breeze to Operate

In this day and age, ease of use is a must-have for any electronic device. You likely already have a cell phone, computer, and other electronic devices, so trying to keep them all in order and remember how each one works can be really challenging. Luckily, GCE designed the Zen-O to be as simple and streamlined as possible. There are only six buttons on the interface and they are each clearly marked with a symbol so that you know what each one does.

With the six buttons on the interface, you’ll be able to turn the device on and off, display the battery life, mute or unmute alarms, switch between continuous flow and pulse dose, and adjust your flow setting up or down. The battery is installed via the top of the unit so you won’t have to stop and flip your oxygen machine over just to get the battery out. Finally, the oxygen output is located on the top of the unit. This is where you will insert the oxygen tubing.

It’s not just the oxygen machine itself that’s easy to use, the accessories it comes with also provide the same ease of use. The custom carrying case which comes with the device, for example, is designed so that you can fully operate your concentrator without removing it from the case. This means you’ll have access to the user interface, the oxygen output port, and the charging port. It also has an extendable handle so that you can either roll your concentrator around or wear it on your shoulder or back.

Conclusion

Whether you have COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or another respiratory condition, your oxygen device is your lifeline. As such, you need an oxygen machine that both matches your lifestyle and meets your oxygen needs as prescribed by your doctor. While the GCE Zen-O is a great choice if you need a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator, we highly recommend speaking with one of our oxygen concentrator specialists before making any decisions.

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When you reach out to us here at LPT Medical, we’ll take the time to understand your situation and answer any questions you may have. Then, we’ll apply our knowledge of oxygen therapy to find you the right oxygen concentrator for your needs. But that’s not all. We will also walk you through your buying options like new, used, or refurbished concentrators, and financing options to make your payments more manageable. If you don’t have the necessary paperwork to purchase an oxygen concentrator, we’ll reach out to your doctor and handle it for you. Give us a call or send us an email today to get started.

GCE Zen-O Specs

If you’ve already read our blog on treating and overcoming sleep apnea, you know that sleep apnea is a common disorder with potentially serious implications. While sleep apnea symptoms may seem mild at first, over time, obstructive sleep apnea may eventually lead to increased blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, depression, and more. 

But when sleep apnea is combined with other conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , it’s often a two-way road. According to a new study called Canadian Cohort Obstructive Lung Disease (CanCOLD), sleep disruptions — like those experienced in sleep apnea — could lead to a greater risk of long-term COPD exacerbations. 

Led by researchers at Montreal’s McGill University, this ongoing study aims to analyze over 2,000 Canadians with mild to severe COPD. Whereas previous trials have shown that COPD symptoms may lead to sleep disturbances, this study will help medical professionals better understand the characteristics of COPD and how they’re affected by a poor night’s sleep. 

Using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and negative binomial regression, the team observed data from 480 participants over an 18-month assessment period. During this time, 185 of the participants experienced at least one exacerbation and 203 had a baseline PSQI score over five, indicating that the participant had a poor night’s sleep. The study also concluded that both symptom- and event-based exacerbation risks were associated with a higher PSQI score.

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What We Can Take Away From The Study

When it comes to other major causes of death like cancer and heart disease, COPD awareness remains low both in the United States and around the world. Studies on COPD are often overshadowed by discussions about lung cancer and other respiratory conditions. However, this study may help bring some much-needed awareness to a condition that so many people suffer with.

Unlike acute illnesses, chronic conditions like COPD progress slowly and oftentimes without any cause for concern. You may have started to develop COPD years ago but brushed off your symptoms as “getting old” or “being out of shape.” This study reaffirms the importance of getting checked regularly for both healthy lung function and sleep quality.

Sleep Quality Matters

It’s easy to dismiss a bad night’s sleep as unimportant or insignificant, but when this issue persists, it’s almost always linked to an underlying condition. And even when it isn’t, feelings of restlessness and chronic fatigue can have an impact on the severity and frequency of your COPD symptoms and exacerbations. What’s more, if you’re sleepy frequently, it will make it significantly more difficult to deal with the daily struggles of managing COPD. 

As such, it’s important to take all necessary precautions to ensure that you sleep well and aren’t disturbed. First and foremost, you should make sure that you get an adequate amount of sleep each night. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults between the ages of 24 and 64 should get between 7 to 9 hours of sleep and anyone older than 65 should get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep. Let’s take a look at some tips for getting a better night’s sleep.

Sleep-Wake-Time Consistency

Researchers have studied sleep extensively and one of the most common rules they stress is creating a sleep routine and sticking with it. Many people will tell you that you need to get up as early as possible and that staying up late is a problem. But in reality, you simply want to pick a schedule and follow it every day of the week.

Avoiding Screens Before Bed

Technology helps us all lead more productive lives and has allowed us to learn more about the world than any other time in human history. But staring at a screen right before bed may have the opposite effect. According to the National Sleep Foundation, using electronics before bed delays the circadian rhythm in your body and slows the release of melatonin (the sleep-inducing hormone in the brain) making it harder to fall asleep when you need to. 

Calcium and Magnesium Levels

Magnesium is an essential mineral that’s responsible for 300 biochemical reactions in the body. It’s one of the most important minerals in the body, helping to maintain a healthy immune system, strong bones, and muscle function. And if there isn’t enough magnesium in the body to absorb calcium, it can lead to weak bones and digestion problems. Additionally, calcium is responsible for tightening and tensing muscles and nerves while magnesium calms and relaxes them. So, having this balance is essential for deep and restful sleep.

Some foods high in magnesium include:

• Whole wheat
• Spinach
• Quinoa
• Peanuts, cashews, and almonds
• Dark chocolate
• Black beans
• And avocado

Functioning Adrenal System

A well-functioning adrenal system is essential to good sleep and overall well-being. The adrenal glands are located on top of each kidney and produce hormones that your body needs. In a healthy body, these hormones help manage stress, regulate metabolism, control blood pressure, and more. However, there are a variety of disorders that can negatively affect the adrenal glands resulting in an adrenal deficiency. Junk food, sugar, and caffeine are known to reduce adrenal function making you feel groggy and restless after waking up.

Blood Sugar Levels

In what is often a vicious cycle, blood sugar levels affect your sleep, and poor sleep affects your blood sugar as well. Blood sugar is regulated by what you eat and when you eat it. While it’s not a good idea to eat a heavy meal late in the day, eating too early and then not eating all evening can cause a dip in blood sugar in the middle of the night. Low blood sugar can cause you to wake with a headache or feel out of sorts, making it difficult to go back to sleep. 

On the other hand, if your blood sugar is too high, your body is likely to try to rid itself of excess sugar through the kidneys causing you to wake up to use the bathroom. Many people who are trying to lose weight feel that bedtime snacks add unnecessary calories but weight loss isn’t just about calorie counting. In order to maintain a healthy metabolism, good sleep, hormone regulation, and stable blood sugar are essential.

Awareness Is Key

Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, eating right, and avoiding sugar and caffeine before bed are all great habits to get into, but without being tested, it’s difficult to diagnose and treat any sleep disorder you may be struggling with. If you have COPD, you should speak with your doctor about having both a sleep study and an exercise test.

Sleep Studies

The easiest way to detect sleep apnea and other sleeping disorders early on is through a sleep study. Also known as a polysomnogram, a sleep study is a non-invasive procedure doctors use to analyze sleep patterns, heart rate, and brain activity in order to diagnose sleep disorders. Aside from sleep apnea, these disorders include narcolepsy, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and more.

No matter whether you have bronchitis, emphysema, or any other lung condition, a sleep test will provide both you and your doctor with critically important information about your body, mind, and overall health. Using the test results and your medical history, your doctor will be able to narrow down the source of your sleep disruptions and determine if any actions need to be taken on your part to get a better night’s sleep.

Exercise Tests

Similar to how a sleep study will reveal crucial information about your breathing patterns while you sleep, an exercise test is useful for monitoring how your lungs function while undergoing physical exertion. If you have COPD, an exercise test will reveal the condition's effects on your physical abilities and help your doctor set up an exercise routine that’s right for you. 

There are two main types of exercise test: laboratory tests and field walking tests. Patients who already have a chronic pulmonary condition may opt for a field walking test because they are able to stop and take a break, whereas laboratory tests are usually better for someone who still retains most of their physical abilities. Some exercise tests include the 6-minute walk test, the incremental shuttle walk test, the endurance shuttle walk test, and the cardio-pulmonary test. Your doctor will help you determine which one is best for you.

When used in tandem with a sleep study and your medical history, an exercise test will provide your doctor with a wide range of information about your overall health. For example, if your doctor discovers disruptions in your sleep pattern, he/she may be able to link it to an issue you experience while exercising or vise versa. This will make it easier to create a treatment plan that’s best for you.

Sleep Affects Your Overall Health

One of the major mistakes people make when approaching an issue like sleep apnea or sleep deprivation is that they treat it as an isolated issue. These people assume that the fatigue or restlessness that they feel is the extent of the effect it’s having on their bodies. Unfortunately, as the study suggests, this is not the case.

Aside from short-term symptoms like decreased performance and alertness, long-term sleep deprivation can put you at a higher risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, and more. Chronic sleep deprivation can also significantly reduce your quality of life and put a strain on your relationships.

You’re at a Higher Risk With COPD

Above all, this study shows us that you’re at a higher risk of experiencing and being hospitalized for COPD exacerbations when you get poor sleep. Whether you’re suffering from chronic sleep apnea or you’re experiencing poor sleep due to anxiety or depression, you should take these issues seriously in order to avoid respiratory complications.

Most people tend to think of COPD exacerbation triggers as air pollutants and irritants or sicknesses like the flu or the common cold. However, according to the study, the quality of sleep you get also has an impact on when exacerbations occur and how severe they are. While COPD is manageable on its own, frequent exacerbations can take a serious toll on your health and can even be fatal. 

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Sleeping Disorders That Can Cause Exacerbations

Unfortunately, it’s not just poor sleep quality that increases your risk of exacerbations; sleeping disorders like sleep apnea and insomnia can also play a role while simultaneously contributing to poor sleep. Many people who have a sleeping disorder are never diagnosed because they either don’t realize they have a problem or they believe nothing can be done.

Like maintaining healthy sleep habits, diagnosing and treating sleep disorders starts with awareness. Sleep constitutes a third of our lives. And during this time, many important processes occur that are necessary for us to lead happy and healthy lives. Sure, preventing that grogginess and sleepiness when you wake up is part of it, but sleep is vital for the rest of the body as well.

According to the Mayo Clinic, your immune system is affected by lack of sleep. Proteins called cytokines are released by the immune system when your body is experiencing inflammation, stress, or infection. However, less cytokines are produced when you’re deprived of sleep. What’s more, cells and antibodies that fight infection are reduced when you don’t get enough sleep. 

As a COPD patient, getting sick could lead to a serious flare up in your symptoms and even result in exacerbations due to increased mucus production and difficulty breathing. We’re going to take a look at just a few of the most common sleep disorders so that you know when to seek help.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by disrupted breathing while sleeping. There are three main types of sleep apnea that you should be aware of. 

• Obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most common forms of the condition and it results when throat muscles relax and block your airways.
• Central sleep apnea is the result of the muscles that control breathing not receiving proper signals from your brain.
• Complex sleep apnea is the result of having both these conditions simultaneously.

As you can imagine, these two disorders are treated in very different ways. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are one of the most common treatment methods for obstructive sleep apnea. Unlike a normal in-home oxygen therapy device, a CPAP machine is designed to blow at a pressure that will keep your airways open and free of obstruction while you sleep. When the device is on, it creates a cushion along the upper airway preventing the tongue, uvula, and soft palate from interfering with the airway.  

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When it comes to central sleep apnea, medication is often the only effective solution. Medication like theophylline or acetazolamide are used to stimulate breathing while you sleep. And if you’re on any opioid medications, your doctor may take you off these to prevent any complications.

Insomnia

Insomnia is another common sleep disorder affecting around 60 million Americans. Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling asleep or feeling dissatisfied with the quality of sleep that you do get. Many people who have insomnia are unable to fall asleep even when they’re tired and often wake up feeling groggy, fatigued, and unable to concentrate.

Depending on what is causing the insomnia, both medical and non-medical treatment methods may be used. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), counseling, and group therapy may be beneficial non-pharmacological treatments while relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and changes to your sleep schedule may help as well. Medication for insomnia includes both benzodiazepine sedatives and non-benzodiazepine sedatives. 

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that results in an irregular regulation of sleep and wakefulness. Someone with narcolepsy may fall asleep frequently during the day and may feel sudden muscle weakness as well during any type of activity. People who experience narcolepsy may also have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night due to their circadian rhythm being disrupted during the day. Although this disorder usually starts at a young age, it often goes undiagnosed in many people. 

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

RLS results in unpleasant feelings in the legs such as aches, tingling, burning, or general discomfort. It’s considered a neurological movement disorder and is commonly associated with periodic limb movements of sleep (PLMS), which is a similar condition that occurs while the person is asleep. For some people, this condition doesn’t have a significant impact on their ability to get a restful night’s sleep. However, restless leg syndrome almost always does.

Circadian Rhythm Disorders

We’ve talked before about the importance of the circadian rhythm in managing your sleep-wake cycle and getting a good night’s sleep. And in a circadian rhythm disorder, a person’s biological clock is out of sync, especially when it comes to external time cues like the natural dark-light cycle.

Although your sleep cycle will never be completely in sync with external cues, someone with these disorders may feel completely restless and sleepy in the middle of the day and wide awake at night making it difficult to find a sleep schedule that works for them. These disorders may eventually lead to insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness).

What You Can Do To Avoid COPD Exacerbations

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Now that you understand how poor sleep quality and sleep disorders can lead to COPD exacerbations, you need to know exactly what steps you should take to avoid complications. While chronic sleep disorders and general sleepiness are dangerous on their own, for someone with COPD, they could lead to a life-threatening exacerbation. Fortunately, you don’t have to leave anything up to chance when it comes to your health and you can get started right away improving your sleep quality. Simply follow the steps below.

1.) Make A List of Your Symptoms

As you’re probably well aware, living with COPD or any chronic illness can be challenging. You may be following a strict diet, exercise routine, sleep schedule, and work schedule. And it’s easy to get confused as to what you should be doing and when. As such, the more you can write down on paper, the better.

One reason to make a physical list is because you may forget when it comes time to see your doctor. COPD has a long list of symptoms and most people with the condition experience them all at one point or another. The more information you have about what symptoms you’re experiencing and when, the better you and your doctor will be able to pinpoint what’s causing the exacerbation. On your list, be sure to thoroughly describe what symptoms you experienced, the date, the time, as well as details about your sleep schedule and sleep quality.

2.) Visit A Doctor

The second step in this process is to visit a doctor. As aforementioned, awareness is key when it comes to being able to effectively treat sleep disorders and COPD symptoms. If there’s any information about your symptoms that your doctor isn’t aware of, he/she may not be able to treat them effectively. Since COPD exacerbations are linked to your diet, sleep patterns, and overall health, you should try to provide a thorough overview of your symptoms.

3.) Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions   

Chances are, you’re going to have a few questions about your symptoms and how your sleep quality may be affecting them — don’t hesitate to ask them. Although doctors have your best interest in mind, they aren’t infallible. There’s a chance they may have overlooked something when coming up with your treatment plan. And it’s important for you to understand your condition as well as possible after leaving the exam room.

For example, if you’re curious about sleep studies, exercise tests, or medication that you heard about online, it never hurts to ask your doctor if they might be a viable option. The worst that can happen is they suggest a better option and you become more educated about the condition you’re coping with.

Conclusion

For better or for worse, the quality of sleep you get at night affects the frequency and severity of COPD exacerbations you experience. Conversely, COPD symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing may prevent you from achieving a good night’s sleep. Understanding this two-way relationship is the first step in learning how to overcome it and live a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Although you will likely always experience some COPD symptoms, you can avoid exacerbations by making some simple lifestyle changes and being open and honest with your doctor. Additionally, taking the time to educate yourself on what triggers exacerbations will make it easier to manage the condition on a daily basis. 

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For many decades, being prescribed oxygen has meant sacrificing your freedom and independence. Oxygen tanks were the only way for respiratory patients to receive reliable medical-grade oxygen, but they were heavy, bulky, and a pain to refill. Fortunately, oxygen manufacturers like O2 Concepts came around and came up with unique innovations in order to solve the issues that oxygen patients were facing. Most notably, we saw the advent of lightweight portable oxygen concentrators in the early 2000s.  

Unlike oxygen tanks which hold oxygen within the unit, portable oxygen concentrators are electronic devices that derive oxygen from the surrounding air while removing unnecessary gases like nitrogen and argon. Oxygen manufacturers are able to make these devices much smaller and compact than oxygen tanks, and as a result, oxygen patients are able to go more places and do more things without being held back by their oxygen device.

Watch the video above as we unbox and review one of the top-rated portable oxygen concentrators on the market: the Oxlife Freedom. Then continue reading below for more specific details about this revolutionary oxygen device. Once you’re ready to start your search for a portable oxygen concentrator that meets your needs, reach out to our oxygen concentrator specialists here at LPT Medical. We’ll answer any questions you have and get you the best deal on a new, used or refurbished unit.

Pulse Dose Oxygen Delivery on the Go

One of the first things you’ll notice about Oxlife Freedom is that it has pulse dose oxygen delivery as opposed to continuous flow oxygen. So, instead of putting out oxygen in a constant stream it carefully monitors your breathing rate through the nasal cannula and delivers oxygen at the optimal moment. This has a number of advantages including extending the battery life and helping to keep the device lightweight and manageable.

To put this into perspective, the Oxlife Freedom weighs just 6 pounds. On the other hand, a typical continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator weighs over 10 pounds and sometimes even as much as 20 pounds. Generally speaking, most people are able to carry a portable oxygen concentrator on their shoulder if it’s under 10 pounds. Anything over that, however, and you’ll likely need to resort to a rolling cart which only adds more weight and bulk to your device.

Another great benefit the Oxlife Freedom has going for it is its small form factor. The dimensions of the Oxlife Freedom are as follows: 9.4 inches tall, 3.4 inches deep, and 9 inches wide. Whether you’re relaxing at home or out for a walk, you’ll find that the Oxlife Freedom is small enough that it won’t obstruct your movement, and if you’re going for a drive, you can easily put the device in the seat next to you without it getting in the way. Just make sure your Oxlife Freedom is secure before you start driving.

If you’re worried about using your POC while you sleep, don’t be! The Oxlife Freedom intelligent delivery system will closely monitor your breathing while you sleep. This technology even has the ability to detect shallow mouth breaths so you don’t need to worry about getting the oxygen you need while you sleep. 

Dynamic Network Analysis® (DNA) Technology

DNA is a system designed by 02 Concepts specifically for use in their Oxlife Freedom and Oxlife Independence oxygen machines. Essentially, DNA connects your concentrator to a secure proprietary network. This network enables oxygen providers and caregivers to use usage data to provide oxygen patients with a new level of customer service and efficiency. The end goal is to ensure that the oxygen patient is using oxygen as prescribed and to prevent COPD readmittance.

There are a host of other services that DNA provides the oxygen user. For example, it will passively monitor your equipment for changes in temperature and purity and make adjustments on the fly. The DNA technology will help you make better decisions about your oxygen concentrator maintenance and repairs so that you can proactively prevent downtime in your oxygen delivery.

While other oxygen concentrators have implemented technologies similar to DNA technology such as Inogen Connect with the Inogen One G5 and CaireVIEW with the FreeStyle Comfort, O2 Concept’s Oxlife Freedom was technically the first “smart portable oxygen concentrator.” What’s more, DNA provides oxygen patients with many features that aren’t available with the G5 or the FreeStyle Comfort.

Sleek and Functional Design

When you’re out and about enjoying your day, the last thing you want to deal with is a complicated piece of technology. Life is busy enough with work, chores, and other responsibilities so it doesn’t make sense to invest in an oxygen device that makes your life harder. Luckily, through much trial and error, O2 Concepts has come up with a design that is sleek, functional, and easy to learn all while providing you with the oxygen you need to stay healthy.

The user interface of the Oxlife Freedom has a transflective display that makes it easy to read whether you’re inside or outside in the sunlight. The interface is also very minimalistic with only four buttons that you need to worry about. Two of them are used to adjust the oxygen flow up or down; one is used to turn the device on and off, and the last button is used for the menu. There are also a variety of different symbols that may pop up on the screen. Simply refer to the user manual that comes with your device to learn what each one means.

Conclusion

The Oxlife Freedom is an oxygen concentrator that’s aptly named. With the Freedom, you’ll be able to get out of the house and do more than you ever thought possible with COPD or any other lung condition. Unlike the oxygen tanks that came before it, the Oxlife Freedom is extremely lightweight, compact, and versatile. It’s also one of the first oxygen concentrators in the world to offer “smart” technology which monitors your oxygen usage, device condition, and much more in order to proactively manage your health. It also keeps you connected with medical specialists and device technicians who can help you out in case of an emergency.

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While the Oxlife Freedom is an amazing portable oxygen concentrator, it’s far from the only device we would recommend to oxygen patients. We understand that it can be overwhelming trying to learn about each and every device on the market — this is why our oxygen concentrator specialists are here. Simply give us a call and we’ll walk you step-by-step in choosing an oxygen device, assisting with financing options, and even helping you collect the necessary medical paperwork. 

Oxlife Freedom Specs

Battery Life

Oxygen Output

COVID-19 and lung damage is still a very new problem, and while research so far can tell us some of the impacts of COVID-19 on respiratory disease there is still a lot of uncertainty. That being said, it is important to fact-check information that you see on the internet, especially when it comes to something as serious as COVID-19 and lung damage.

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COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that is fast spreading and highly contagious, and while the vaccine is rolling out in the United States and internationally, catching COVID-19 is still cause for concern. 

Here is a summary of the blog you are about to read:

1. COVID-19 has lasting effects on your respiratory system
2. People with lung disease have a high chance of experience harsher symptoms from COVID-19 than a person with no pre-existing conditions 
3. Don’t be fooled, if you are vaccinated you can still catch COVID-19, yet the effects of covid are much more mild than if you are not vaccinated, and this includes the damage to your lungs 

How Does COVID-19 Affect your Lungs 

COVID-19 can affect your lungs in mild and sometimes severe ways, and a lot of this depends on your health prior to catching the virus. If you have a relatively healthy respiratory system and have no pre-existing conditions COVID-19 can still hurt your lungs but not as badly as someone who already suffers from a chronic illness.

One of the most common implications caused by COVID-19 is pneumonia and in the most severe cases, acute respiratory distress syndrome. There is also the possibility of Sepsis as a complication of COVID-19, and this can also cause lasting damage to your lungs and other organs.

COVID-19 and Pneumonia

When you get pneumonia, your lungs fill with fluid and become inflamed, leading to breathing difficulties, this is extremely painful for lung patients who have diseases like Chronic Obstructive Respiratory Disease (COPD). When someone with COPD gets COVID-19 the symptoms can become so severe they require treatment at the hospital with a portable oxygen concentrator or even a ventilator.

Pneumonia occurs when your air sacs in your lungs fill with fluid, this limits their ability to take in oxygen and causes shortness of breath, a persistent cough and other symptoms.

While most people recover from pneumonia without any lasting lung damage, the pneumonia associated with COVID-19 can be severe, and people with lung disease have an even harder time healing from this. 

Even after the disease has passed, the damage to your lungs may result in breathing difficulties that take a lot of time to heal completely, and with chronic conditions, it is unlikely the damage will heal completely. 

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Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and COVID-19 

COVID-19 that causes pneumonia can progress further into a more severe state, and the air sacs which become filled with fluid start to leak from blood vessels in your lungs. Inevitably, breathlessness occurs, which can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome. ARDS is essentially a version of lung failure.

Patients with ARDS are usually unable to breath by themselves and may require a ventilator to help their bodies circulate oxygen through their body.

Sepsis and COVID-19

In severe cases of COVID-19 and people who also suffer from preexisting conditions, sepsis is another serious complication. Sepsis is a fast spreading infection that moves through the bloodstream, causing tissue damage everywhere it goes.

Sepsis causes long-lasting lung damage and also affects other organs in the long term. 

Reducing the Chance of Lung Damage from COVID-19 

If you have chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, COPD or heart disease, its crucial for you to continue taking your medication and treating your disease optimally. 

Take your oxygen as prescribed and monitor your health status and report to your doctor over the phone regularly. You can also use a pulse oximeter to measure when and if you are breathing appropriately.

Everyone, especially lung patients, need to maintain adequate nutrition by eating healthy and staying hydrated, this will keep your immune system healthy. Also double check that you are up to date with all of your vaccinations, even just getting the common flu can weaken your immune system and leave you more susceptible to catching COVID-19. 

Also, be wary of any information you read on the internet that's not supported by researchers and institutions which require a peer review process in order to be published. Because COVID is relatively a new virus, the research is still in progress meaning that most results from studies over the past year and a half are not conclusive yet. 

For example, you might have seen reports of vitamins, minerals and prophylaxis medications that can prevent/ or reduce lung damage, however there are no peer reviewed studies that are supporting it at this time.

The best way to avoid COVID-19 and worsening lung damage is to get the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Is the vaccine safe for people with lung conditions?

There have been a plethora of studies that have concluded the vaccine is safe for people with lung conditions. The vaccine has been tested on people with long-term conditions and people from all age groups including older people. 

In fact, it has been decided that people who are at high-risk should be prioritized to get the vaccine first. At this time, there is no reason to think the vaccine interferes with any medications and therefore, your treatment for your lung condition should continue as normal.

If you have asthma and you use biologics (otherwise known as mAbs, or monoclonal antibodies), talk to your doctor to discuss the timing of your vaccine and your asthma biologic. There is no evidence to show the vaccines are unsafe for you, however it’s advisable that there should be 7-day gap between your vaccine and your next asthma biologic.  

Do not stop taking or change any of your medicines without speaking to your doctor first. 

So how do we know the vaccine is safe? 

Any approved vaccines must meet a strict criteria of safety, quality and effectiveness. And so all of the approved coronavirus vaccines go through certain clinical trials and they are checked that same way as any licensed medicines are checked. Other vaccines are being developed, but they will only be available to the public once they’ve been thoroughly tested. 

A vaccine can not be given to people until the FDA oversees extensive lab testing of the vaccine. Usually this can take many years in order to ensure it is safe and effective. Because the COVID-19 vaccine was only developed and tested in a short period of time, some risk is involved, however data indicates that all of the available COVID-19 vaccines are safe. 

Also the risk of COVID-19 is far greater than the small risk of the vaccine. 

We know this because we can look at the rate of severe or life-threatening reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine, which is estimated to be about 1 in 100,000 patients, whereas the risk right now of dying from COVID-19 is substantially higher than that.

There are many deadly diseases that have been technically eradicated with the introduction of a vaccine. For example, Polio, Tetanus, The Flu (Influenza), Hepatitis B and A, Measles, Whooping Cough, and so many others have a vaccine that is successful in reducing the contamination and spread of the disease, and save millions of lives. COVID-19 can be added to this list eventually! 

Overview 

The risk of COVID-19 having long term effects and damaging your lungs is high for any person, but extremely high for someone with a pre-existing lung condition. If you have lung disease already, catching COVID-19 could mean hospitalization and it can be life threatening.

There are a number of ways to avoid catching COVID-19 by social distancing, washing your hands, and wearing a mask, and on top of all of those recommendations is to get vaccinated. 

If you are still wary of getting the vaccine, talk to your doctor, they can go over your medication that you take and reassure you that the vaccine will not interfere with your medical condition nor your treatments. 

Side effects of the vaccine are very normal, and oftentimes unavoidable and even uncomfortable. That being said, these short-lived side effects are much less dangerous than being exposed and unprotected against the coronavirus. 

If you have a lung condition like asthma, COPD, of cystic fibrosis, continue to treat your disease during the pandemic. It is important that you stay healthy and get stronger so that your body is capable of fighting ailments including COVID-19. While exposure to coronavirus is extremely dangerous due to the virus and its contagious properties, the healthier you are the better.

If you need oxygen, be sure you have a portable oxygen concentrator that is reliable and durable. For all of your oxygen accessories needs, head over to the LPT Medical website or call 1(800)-946-1202 to speak with a respiratory specialist. 

If you are prescribed an oxygen concentrator for chronic health problems and you experience symptoms of COVID-19, call your doctor. Do not change your oxygen levels on your own, unless you have been told to do so by your doctor.

An oxygen concentrator is an electronic device that draws in ambient air and uses it to administer medical-grade oxygen through a nasal cannula. There are three different types of concentrators including stationary oxygen concentrators, portable continuous flow concentrators, and portable pulse dose concentrators. While each of these operates using the same basic principles, there are some key differences between the benefits that they offer to the user. If you’d like information on this subject, please visit our blog post titled, “Pulse Dose vs. Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators: The Ultimate Comparison Guide.”

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In this post, however, we’re going to take a look at one oxygen concentrator in particular: the Respironics SimplyGo. This machine has been out for quite some time, yet it’s still considered by many as the “gold standard” for continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators. Read on to learn about what sets the Respironics SimplyGo apart from other concentrators and watch the video above for a full hands-on unboxing of this device. If you’re on the market for an oxygen concentrator but don’t know where to begin, reach out to our oxygen concentrator specialists by phone or email.  

The Lightest Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Simply put, a continuous flow oxygen concentrator is a device that puts out a constant stream of oxygen. This is similar to an oxygen tank where if you loosen the nozzle, you’ll receive a constant flow of oxygen until the oxygen in the tank is depleted. But a continuous flow concentrator will administer oxygen until it runs out of battery life. If you keep it plugged into a wall outlet, you’ll be able to run it 24/7 without interruption.

Despite how old the Respironics SImplyGo is, it’s still the smallest and the lightest continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator on the market. The dimensions of the SimplyGo are 10” H x 6” D x 11.5” W and it weighs in at only 10 pounds. In other words, it’s one of the only continuous flow devices that’s light enough and compact enough to carry comfortably on your shoulder. Regardless, every SimplyGo unit comes equipped with a rolling cart for your convenience. 

Something you’ll likely notice right away about the Respironics SimplyGo is that it has a carrying handle built into the top of the unit. This is a simple design choice but it’s not offered with many other oxygen concentrators. This handle makes it much easier to pick the device up and move it around without having to grab it from the bottom or the sides where you risk dropping it. 

The form factor is another thing that should be noted about the Respironics SImplyGo. Most continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators use the term “portable” very loosely in that they’re still about as bulky and awkward to maneuver as a standard oxygen tank. Most people find that they need help from loved ones in order to move their concentrator around safely. However, with the SimplyGo, you’ll have no problems on your own. The rolling cart has an adjustable handle making it easy to store whether you’re at home, in your car, or on an airplane.

Power and Versatility On The Go

One of the biggest problems oxygen manufacturers have faced is creating a small, lightweight oxygen device that also meets the needs of oxygen patients around the world. Every oxygen user is different, so it’s important to make oxygen machines that are versatile enough to satisfy everyone’s wants and needs. Luckily, the Respironics SimplyGo provides more versatility than most portable oxygen concentrators out there.

Firstly, the SimplyGo offers both continuous flow and pulse dose options. On continuous flow, you’ll have between 0.5 to 2.0 liters of oxygen per minute (LPM) and on pulse dose, you’ll have 6 flow settings to choose from. In other words, you’ll have a lot of different options for how you want your oxygen delivered. For example, if you’re at home with your concentrator plugged into the wall, you might want to use the continuous flow setting which consumes more battery life. However, when you leave the house and you’re trying to conserve battery life, you might choose to use the pulse dose setting.

Before you make any changes to your oxygen delivery, you should first contact your doctor. Everyone’s needs are different, so receiving too much or too little oxygen may be harmful to your health. Be sure to ask your doctor how many liters of oxygen per minute you need as well as how long you should be on oxygen each day. If you enjoy exercising, also ask him/her if it’s okay to increase your oxygen intake while exercising.

Another thing that makes the SimplyGo so versatile is the fact that it can operate using either one or two batteries. If you know that you’re only going to be out of the house for an hour or two you can simply take one battery with you as opposed to two. This will help you cut down the weight of your device and make your life a little easier. If you’re going on a long trip, add the other battery into your device and you’ll have twice as much battery life to work with.

Unlike other concentrators which have their battery packs on the bottom of the unit, the SimplyGo batteries slide out of the top of the unit. This makes it incredibly easy to swap out your batteries on the fly without having to flip the device over or lay it on its side. It’s also less of a hassle because you won’t have to take the device off of your shoulder when you do it. 

Fully CPAP and BiPAP Compatible

Many people are unaware that you’re actually able to use your Respironics SimplyGo in conjunction with your positive airway pressure device (PAP device) as you sleep. PAP devices are used by people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who have problems with their airways closing up as they sleep. This can be very dangerous when it’s combined with the side-effects of COPD and other respiratory conditions so you should speak with your doctor to see if you should use both CPAP and oxygen therapy while you sleep.

Unfortunately, pulse dose oxygen concentrators like the ResMed Mobi or the Activox 4L cannot be used with CPAP devices. This is because they rely on slight changes of pressure in the nasal cannula in order to determine when to deliver oxygen. The CPAP device can interfere with this, so you’ll need to use a continuous flow device like the Respironics SimplyGo. Since the SImplyGo has a pulse dose option, you’ll just want to make sure it’s set to continuous flow before you go to bed. For more information on setting up your SimplyGo with CPAP, be sure to consult the user manual.

Conclusion

There’s a reason we recommend the Respironics SimplyGo to oxygen patients time and time again. It’s the smallest and lightest continuous flow oxygen concentrator on the market and offers plenty of power and versatility that people expect in this day and age. With the SimplyGo, you’ll be able to regain the freedom that you once had before starting oxygen therapy and finally start enjoying activities outside of the house whether it’s taking a walk or taking a trip across the world.

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While the Respironics SimplyGo is an incredible oxygen device, we want to get you the exact device that matches your wants and needs. If you’re shopping for a new, used, or refurbished oxygen concentrator, reach out to our concentrator specialists, and we will walk you through the whole process from choosing a concentrator to receiving your medical paperwork and even receiving financial compensation through Medicare or another health insurance company. Give us a call or shoot us an email today to get started!

Respironics SimplyGo Specs:

Respironics SimplyGo Battery Life:

There are about 16 million people in the United States alone who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This condition is characterized by slow but persistent lung function decline that leads to breathlessness, chest pain, and fatigue. Several lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the rate at which COPD progresses including an improved exercise routine, a refined diet, inhaled medications, and most importantly, oxygen therapy. Every case of COPD is different, however, so patients should consult with their doctor to learn which lifestyle changes will benefit them.

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When it comes to supplemental oxygen therapy, there tends to be a lot of confusion over the different devices that are available to COPD patients. Many people are told that they need medical oxygen, but they’re never provided with instruction on finding an oxygen device that meets their needs. In this post, we’ll discuss three different types of medical oxygen: compressed oxygen, liquid oxygen, and oxygen concentrators. You’ll learn the differences between them and you’ll receive some guidance for choosing one that fits your lifestyle.

If you still have questions after reading, be sure to reach out to our oxygen device specialists here at LPT Medical. We’ll walk you step-by-step through choosing an oxygen device, getting the best deal, and even helping you to receive the necessary medical paperwork. Give us a call at 1-888-416-3855 or email us at info@lptmedical.com.

What is Compressed Oxygen Gas?

Compressed oxygen gas refers to oxygen that has been stored within a tank or a cylinder. Oxygen has been stored in this way since 1868 and it’s still considered a viable method to this day; albeit, the technology has certainly evolved. Compressed oxygen gas is used for a variety of purposes, but it’s primarily used for industrial and medical settings. Many COPD patients use oxygen tanks on a daily basis to maintain the oxygen levels in their blood. For the most part, oxygen tanks are reliable for oxygen therapy, but there are some downsides that you should be aware of.

One of the most notable downsides of oxygen tanks is that they are heavy and bulky. Chances are, you’ve seen people carrying an oxygen tank around in public, and it’s not hard to see how much they struggle. Portable oxygen tanks can weigh as much as 20 pounds and they have a very oblong shape that makes them difficult to carry at your side or on your back. Most people choose to put their oxygen tank on a rolling cart but this comes with problems of its own. They take up a lot of space and they’re difficult to maneuver around obstacles or up a flight of stairs. Home oxygen tanks can weigh well over 100 pounds meaning you will need professional help just to move one.

Another glaring problem with oxygen tanks is that they need to be refilled constantly. For example, an “E” tank that is about 3 feet tall and weighs 8 pounds will only last 5 hours if it’s used continuously. At this point, you are going to either have to run home and use your home fill station or find a dependable oxygen company that can refill or replace your oxygen tank for you. All of this takes time and money, all while distracting you from what you care about most. It’s important to remember that the only way to extend the duration of your oxygen supply is to carry a bigger and bulkier oxygen tank or purchase a device called an oxygen conserver.

What is Liquid Oxygen?

Liquid oxygen is similar to compressed oxygen in that the oxygen is stored in a tank. The difference is that these devices store the oxygen in its liquid state rather than as a gas. This is preferable over compressed oxygen because once oxygen enters its gaseous state it expands and thus takes up more space. Liquid oxygen canisters tend to be much smaller and lighter than compressed oxygen and they last longer without needing to be refilled. There are some downsides to these units, however, so let’s take a look.

Likely the first thing you’ll notice about liquid oxygen devices is that they are more expensive than traditional oxygen tanks. This is because — in order for oxygen to be stored in a liquid state — it needs to be kept at very low temperatures. And in order to do that, you need a special type of storage container. Liquid oxygen cylinders work like a thermos in that they keep the liquid oxygen at around -297 degrees Fahrenheit. For safety reasons, liquid oxygen cylinders have decompression vents that release oxygen as the unit warms up. This means you should use it right after filling it up to ensure no oxygen is lost.  

One of the problems many people encounter with liquid oxygen is that it’s extremely difficult and expensive to refill. You’ll need to either have a special home fill reservoir or you’ll need to outsource to an oxygen company. Even then, you may be hard-pressed to find a company that is able to fill a liquid oxygen device. While liquid oxygen tanks provide many benefits over traditional oxygen tanks, they aren’t as popular simply due to the high barrier of entry. 

What is an Oxygen Concentrator?

The third and final oxygen device we’ll discuss is oxygen concentrators. Unlike traditional and liquid oxygen tanks which hold oxygen inside the unit, oxygen concentrators draw in ambient air, remove gases like nitrogen and argon, and output medical-grade oxygen. Another thing that sets concentrators apart is that they are electronic devices. What this means is that they need a reliable source of energy in order to operate. There are three different types of oxygen concentrators so we’ll break each one down.

Stationary Oxygen Concentrators

Also called home oxygen concentrators, stationary oxygen concentrators need a constant source of power in order to operate. The unfortunate downside to this is that you won’t be able to leave the house without there being an interruption in your oxygen delivery. On the other hand, you can still use things like extension cords or extra long nasal cannulas in order to move around the room freely. Despite the name “stationary,” most of these oxygen devices have wheels on the bottom that make them easier to move around the house. However, they tend to weigh a lot (usually upwards of 30 pounds). 

One of the main reasons stationary oxygen concentrators are still in use today is because of their high oxygen output. Some concentrators like the NewLife Intensity 10 can put out up to 10 LPM (liters per minute) of oxygen which is enough for people with severe COPD. They’re also extremely reliable and they can run 24 hours a day and 7 days a week without a problem. Stationary concentrators are not ideal for people who want to get out and about but they’re a good choice for people who stay around the house. 

Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators

A portable oxygen concentrator works the same way as a stationary oxygen concentrator, but instead of being plugged into a wall outlet 24/7, POCs run off of rechargeable batteries. Most POCs use lithium-ion batteries which are some of the most powerful and reliable batteries in use today. You can find them inside cellphones, laptops, and other electronic devices. The term “continuous flow” refers to the way that oxygen is administered to the patient. It simply means that the oxygen is being released in a constant stream regardless of your breathing rate.

As you can imagine, there are several disadvantages to this. Since the device is working around the clock to administer oxygen, your battery life is going to suffer. Most continuous flow concentrators will only run for a couple of hours before the batteries need to be recharged or replaced. This can really be problematic if you want to get out of the house for an extended period of time in order to visit a friend or take a vacation. 

Since continuous flow units are so bulky, taking your oxygen device into public areas or walking up long flights of stairs is out of the question. Unless you’re able to carry the machine on your back, the nasal cannula will dangle down quite a bit which can be a tripping hazard for you and others. To mitigate this risk, some people resort to using mobility aids that they can rest the device on while walking. This way, there’s no chance that the oxygen tubing will get caught on anything. The obvious downside of this is that you’ll have yet another thing to keep track of as you’re out and about.

Pulse Dose Portable Oxygen Concentrators

The final type of oxygen concentrator is a pulse dose portable oxygen concentrator. The term “pulse dose” refers to the way that oxygen is administered to the patient. Rather than being released in a constant stream, the device closely monitors your breathing rate and only delivers oxygen at the optimal moment. What this means is that no oxygen is wasted and you’ll have a lot more battery life to work with. Another major benefit of this technology is that it enables manufacturers to make their devices much lighter and smaller.

The Caire FreeStyle Comfort is one of the top pulse dose portable oxygen concentrators currently on the market. It weighs in at just 5 pounds and the 16-cell battery lasts up to 8 hours on a setting of 2. It also has a maximum oxygen output of 1,050 ml/min which is more than enough for the vast majority of oxygen patients. The great thing about the FreeStyle Comfort and most other pulse dose POCs is that it’s approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) meaning you’ll be able to take it on any commercial airline with you.   

Ultimately, using a pulse dose portable oxygen concentrator as opposed to one of the other oxygen devices listed above, you’ll have more freedom to go where you please and spend more time doing the things you love. They’re very simple to use straight out of the box so you don’t have to worry about spending hours reading through the user manual or researching online. There is also a wide range of accessories available for them in order to help you customize and make the most of your new device.

Conclusion

In this post, we took a look at three of the main oxygen devices on the market: oxygen tanks, liquid oxygen tanks, and oxygen concentrators. Each of these devices is widely used by oxygen patients across the world and they are each viable in their own way. However, all things considered, pulse dose portable oxygen concentrators provide some pretty distinct advantages over the other options. Most importantly, they’re extremely lightweight meaning you can take them anywhere in the world with comfort and ease.

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The GCE Zen-O Lite, for example, is a pulse dose portable oxygen concentrator that weighs in at just 5.5 pounds. With both batteries inserted into the device, you’ll get up to 8 hours of battery life on one charge! That’s enough to last you the whole day and then some. It’s also one of the most powerful pulse dose units offering up to 1,050 ml/min (milliliters per minute ) of oxygen on one charge.

There are many incredible pulse dose concentrators on the market, so be sure to contact our respiratory specialists to discover which one is best for you. We’ll walk you through the whole process from choosing a device to choosing a buying option. We’ll even help you collect all the necessary paperwork and assist you with being reimbursed through Medicare or another health insurance company. Give us a call at 1-(800)-946-1201 or email us at info@lptmedical.com to get started.