You breathe when using supplemental oxygen by inhaling the oxygen delivered through a device like a nasal cannula or a mask. The method depends on your individual needs and the oxygen flow rate prescribed by your doctor.
Supplemental Oxygen Delivery Methods
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Nasal Cannula: This is a thin tube with two prongs that fit inside your nostrils. It's commonly used for individuals requiring lower oxygen concentrations. You breathe normally; the oxygen supplements the air you inhale. [Reference: Most people use a nasal cannula...]
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Oxygen Mask: Individuals needing higher oxygen concentrations often use a mask covering the nose and mouth. The mask delivers oxygen directly, and breathing remains natural. [Reference: People who need a lot of oxygen may need to use a mask that fits over the nose and mouth. ]
The Breathing Process Remains Natural
Regardless of the delivery method, the act of breathing remains the same. Your diaphragm and other respiratory muscles work to expand your lungs, drawing in the oxygen-rich air. [Reference: You breathe in and out with your diaphragm doing about 80 percent of the work to fill your lungs...] The supplemental oxygen simply increases the oxygen concentration in the inhaled air. [Reference: Home oxygen therapy involves breathing in air that has more oxygen than normal through a mask or tube...]
Important Considerations
- Follow your doctor's instructions: The amount of oxygen you need and the best delivery method will be determined by your healthcare provider. [Reference: Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety.]
- Proper equipment use: Learn how to correctly use your oxygen equipment, including attaching tubing, adjusting flow rates (if applicable), and caring for the equipment. [Reference: You will need to know how to use and store your oxygen.]
- Oxygen concentrators: In some cases, oxygen concentrators purify the surrounding air to provide a high concentration of oxygen. You simply breathe naturally, and the concentrator supplies the enriched air. [Reference: ...oxygen concentrator continuously purifies the air around you... You breathe in the oxygen through...]
