Everything You Need to Know About Portable Concentrators
Portable concentrators are a popular device used in oxygen therapy that can help if you are struggling with a lung condition or breathing disorder.
There are many different kinds of portable oxygen concentrators, but each aims to provide your lungs with easier breathing and higher quality of life. Continue reading to learn more about these devices and the many benefits they carry.
What Is a Portable Concentrator?
A portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is a medical device used to provide oxygen therapy to people with a low level of blood oxygen. These individuals require higher oxygen concentration than the levels found in ambient air. They might have trouble breathing due to disorders, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Portable concentrators are smaller than stationary home units and are much more mobile. They are small enough to carry around and can operate on a battery or by being plugged into the wall. Most of these units are also FAA-approved for air travel, making them very convenient for transportation.
How Does It Work?
Portable concentrators use a five-step process to work:
- The machine takes air from the room.
- It purifies the air.
- The oxygen is compressed.
- Nitrogen is removed from the air.
- The concentrator converts the air to 90-95 percent pure oxygen and 5-10 percent nitrogen.
This process results in the highest dose of pure oxygen possible.
Benefits of a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
There is a myriad of benefits that accompany portable oxygen concentrators, including:
- They have a simple and clean control panel which makes them incredibly easy to use.
- Oxygen therapy will help you experience a much better night’s sleep.
- They are lightweight and compact making them easy to take with you just about anywhere.
- A boost of oxygen leads to increased energy and stamina throughout the day.
- There are a variety of POC options, so you can ensure that your machine is customized to meet your specific needs.
- Increased oxygen levels improve mental alertness.
- POCs cultivate independence that would otherwise be unobtainable.
Portable Oxygen Concentrator Uses
People who require oxygen therapy appreciate portable concentrators because they help them improve their quality of life. These devices help people breathe better without skipping a beat. POCs provide specific respiratory treatment for COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and other chronic lung diseases. These can be used for daytime or nighttime use as recommended by a doctor.
Travel Tips
When traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator, keep the following travel tips in mind:
- Contact the travel company/airline beforehand
- Carry an additional backup battery or two
- Charge it while you wait to board your flight
- Ensure that your device is FFA-approved before flying
- Crack a window in a bus, cab, or train, if possible
- Avoid smoking and request all other passengers to do the same
- Do not leave your equipment in a hot car
- Bring along your prescription