What Is Home Oxygen Therapy & Who Needs It?

Welcome to the world of home oxygen therapy! If you or a loved one is experiencing shortness of breath, home oxygen can be life-changing. An oxygen machine (also called a concentrator) takes in regular air, removes nitrogen, and delivers purified oxygen to help your body get the oxygen it needs.

Doctors prescribe home oxygen when blood oxygen levels are too low or symptoms of low oxygen (hypoxia) appear, such as:

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Confusion

• Shortness of breath with mild activity (like climbing stairs)

If your pulse oximeter reads below 88–90%, you may be a candidate for oxygen therapy. This guide will walk you through how to choose the right oxygen machine, understand your oxygen needs, and stay active while using oxygen.

Introduction

Home oxygen therapy means using supplemental oxygen at home to keep your blood oxygen levels in a healthy range. It’s commonly prescribed for people with conditions such as:

• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

• Emphysema

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Severe asthma

• Heart failure

• Recovery after pneumonia or COVID-19

Your doctor will prescribe a specific amount of oxygen, such as “2 liters per minute (LPM), continuous flow.” Most people are prescribed between 1 and 3 LPM.

Understanding Flow Rates & Oxygen Needs

Think of oxygen flow like a faucet — the more it’s opened, the more oxygen you receive through your oxygen concentrator.

• Flow rate is measured in liters per minute (LPM).
• Low flows (1–2 LPM) provide a gentle oxygen boost suitable for many oxygen therapy users.
• Higher flows (5–10 LPM) are designed for people with more severe oxygen needs who require continuous oxygen support.

There are two main oxygen delivery modes:

• Continuous Flow: Oxygen flows steadily all the time, ideal for sleeping, exercise, and higher oxygen demands.

• Pulse Flow (On-Demand): Oxygen is delivered only when you inhale, helping conserve battery life on portable oxygen machines. However, pulse mode may not always be effective during sleep or very shallow breathing.

Using a pulse oximeter to monitor your blood oxygen levels (SpO₂) ensures your oxygen therapy stays within your doctor’s recommended target—typically 88% or higher.

Portable vs. Stationary: What’s Right for You?

Stationary Oxygen Concentrators

• Plug directly into a wall outlet for continuous power

• Deliver higher oxygen flow rates (up to 5–10 LPM)

• Designed to run all day without recharging

• Best suited for people who spend most of their time at home

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)

• Lightweight, battery-powered devices weighing 3–18 pounds

• Easy to carry or wear while traveling, running errands, or walking

• Offer pulse flow delivery and some models provide limited continuous flow (up to 3 LPM)

• Battery life typically lasts 2–5 hours, extendable with extra battery packs

• Many portable oxygen machines are FAA-approved for airplane travel

Comparing Brands: What to Look For

When choosing an oxygen machine or oxygen concentrator, focus on features, performance, and customer support rather than just brand names. Key factors include:

• Oxygen Purity: Quality concentrators deliver 87–95% oxygen, even at higher flow settings.

• Flow Capabilities: Ensure the maximum LPM matches your prescribed oxygen requirements.

• Durability & Reliability: Check reviews to confirm long-term performance and ease of repair or replacement.

• Dual Outputs: Some stationary machines offer two oxygen outlets, useful for caregivers or backup cannulas.

• Included Accessories: Look for extras like carrying cases, spare batteries, extra cannulas, or transport carts.

• Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, test your oxygen concentrator during normal activities and monitor your oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter.

Final Thoughts

Home oxygen therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right oxygen machine, proper setup, and regular monitoring, you can breathe easier, stay active, and enjoy life more fully. Always follow your doctor’s guidance, keep track of your oxygen levels, and don’t hesitate to ask your supplier for support or training to make the most of your oxygen therapy at home.