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Oxygen Concentrators- Top 10 Pros and Cons in 2023
If you have a breathing problem or are suffering from a condition affecting your lungs, oxygen concentrators can help provide your body with the oxygen it requires to function. Unlike conventional tanks with liquid or compressed oxygen, an oxygen concentrator works on the principle of purifying the air in your surroundings to deliver pure oxygen (90-95%). You can breathe in via a plastic tube having two prongs that go in the nostrils or a mask that can fit over your nose and mouth. While it is important to use an oxygen concentrator with a doctor's prescription, it may also be helpful to know the pros and cons of oxygen concentrators to know what to expect. Here are the top ten pros and cons of oxygen concentrators. Oxygen Concentrators Pros Get an unlimited oxygen supply Unlike oxygen cylinders that have limited oxygen capacity, oxygen concentrators can produce an unlimited amount of oxygen with power, ensuring you never run out. Availability of choices Oxygen concentrators come in various capacities, five liters and ten liters, so you can select according to your prescription and avoid paying extra money for what you do not require. Portability Portable oxygen concentrators are usually lightweight, so you can easily carry them. This is a plus for individuals who like to travel and are otherwise held back due to their dependency on oxygen. With portable oxygen concentrators, they have their oxygen supply readily available and can be on the move when they want. Cost-effectiveness Oxygen concentrators do have a high initial cost, but if we consider the long-term perspective, they prove to be more economical. This is because conventional oxygen concentrators require refills regularly, and the costs can be significant. This is not the case with oxygen concentrators, as they extract oxygen from the surrounding air. Easy to use Oxygen concentrators are fairly easy to use. You can follow the simple user instructions provided in the user manual and become used to handling the device in no time. Handling emergencies Oxygen concentrators enable you to tackle emergencies and have contentment in the knowledge that your oxygen supply will not deplete. All you need is a charged battery, and you are good to go. Operate quietly Most oxygen concentrators have almost or fully silent operations. This ensures that the individual using the device and the people around them are not disturbed due to the noises from the device. This particularly comes in handy at night time when everyone wants quiet, uninterrupted sleep. Easy to maintain Oxygen concentrators are usually durable and need minimal maintenance. All you need to do is clean the device or change the filter. There is no need for comprehensive maintenance. This also helps lower the long-term costs and reduces the effort required from the user or their caregiver to upkeep the equipment. No need for refills Not only are oxygen concentrators economical in the long run, but they also prevent the hassle of picking up or getting tanks delivered, saving the cost and effort to navigate logistics for refill pickup or delivery, Eco-friendly Compared to conventional oxygen delivery options, oxygen concentrators are eco-friendly. The devices are designed to extract oxygen from the ambient environment and purify it and do not rely on oxygen tanks, thereby reducing the carbon footprint usually associated with the production and transportation of oxygen cylinders. Oxygen Concentrators Cons Dependence on electricity Oxygen concentrators require a power source to function. While the portable oxygen concentrators come with batteries, power is still required to charge the batteries. This can be a hindrance when traveling where there is limited access to power outlets. High initial costs Oxygen concentrators may be economical in the long run, but they do have a high upfront cost, thereby making the purchase process challenging for individuals who do not have or do not want to spend too much for the purchase, particularly when there is no insurance coverage. Limited suitability Oxygen concentrators may be effective for numerous people, but everyone requiring supplemental oxygen does not fall in this category. Individuals requiring more concentrated oxygen or flow rate may only find limited options in oxygen concentrators. Therefore, it is important to always consult your doctor before deciding which oxygen supply method is suitable for you. Heat production While this does not apply to all, some oxygen concentrator models can become warmer or hot to touch, making the use of the device discomforting if the device is in close range. Always keep the oxygen concentrators away from flammable material and make sure the space is properly ventilated. Limited battery life Portable oxygen concentrators have a limitation in the form of limited battery life. Depending on which brand is used and the oxygen output settings, the battery can last anywhere from four to twelve hours, and you will need to arrange charging. Bulky devices Oxygen concentrators are usually lightweight, but some are bulky; specifically, the ones having a higher capacity are large and bulkier. This undermines their portability feature and can make transportation difficult. Dependency on proper functioning In order to deliver a consistent oxygen supply, an oxygen concentrator must be in good working order. Wear and tear or technical issues can hinder its performance. Therefore, it is important to ensure regular maintenance. Need backups Since oxygen concentrators are dependent on power to function, this can be concerning for places where there are prolonged outages. In such a case, users may need to keep backup oxygen cylinders. Noise production Not all models are designed to operate quietly. While most function without any noise, others produce a noticeable sound, which can be disturbing for the users and others around them. Limitation for oxygen concentration Individuals requiring 100% pure oxygen may find oxygen concentrators to be insufficient, as most models have a concentration level of 90 to 95%. It is hence recommended to understand the features and technical aspects of oxygen concentrators before making a purchase decision. Final thoughts An understanding of the pros and cons of oxygen concentrators can help individuals and medical professionals make an informed decision about their use. While these devices present a convenient solution for a consistent supply of oxygen, it is important to know how to cater to the challenges associated with the use of oxygen concentrators. At the same time, it is important to weigh their pros and cons to evaluate if investing in an oxygen concentrator will be worth it.
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Safety Tips for Hospital Beds at Home
Adding a hospital bed at home can suddenly present so many issues that homeowners never had to consider before. After making the correct choice of adjustable hospital bed for the user, the safe use and proper equipping of a hospital bed should obviously be of utmost importance to anyone in the home. Using a hospital bed safely and correctly will help to avoid additional health issues and create a better atmosphere for everybody involved. Make sure to keep these tips in mind when adding a hospital bed to your home: First read the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and look for damage or ill-fitting parts immediately upon set-up. Thoroughly check that all mechanisms work correctly and present no hazards. Always keep the side rails up when not getting in or out of the bed. They are meant to prevent dangerous falls. The wheels of the bed should always be kept in the locked position unless the bed is in need of being moved. Make sure to re-lock the wheels when moving is completed. Keep hand control within easy reach of the patient. Make sure that the cord is not threaded through the bed rails. Lock the bed into desired position when reached. Equip the user with easy access to communication with both a bell and a phone. A night light or flashlight is also recommended for a bedside table. By keeping on top of the needs of the user, everyone in the home can quickly and safely adjust to having a hospital bed in the home. Shop for all your hospital bed needs at The MedEquip Shop, your trusted online Medical Supply store.
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What is the difference between a CPAP Machine and an APAP machine?
Many customers of The MedEquip Shop ask, “what is the difference between a CPAP machine and an APAP machine?” The answer is simple. A CPAP machines offer Continuous airflow throughout the night with an average pressure of 10cmH2O. This pressure is about what is needed to keep a person’s airways open and to prevent sleep apnea. The APAP is like the CPAP in most circumstances, one of the only differences is that an APAP changes the air pressure depending on the patient. It does not do this for any medical reason besides to make sure that the patient is comfortable while sleeping. You may now ask, “ why would I get a CPAP, if the APAP is more comfortable?” The simple answer is, the APAP is much more expensive, but it may not be needed for your condition, please consult your doctor for further information.
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Why should I get a lift chair?
Lift chairs are chairs that feature a powered lifting mechanism that pushes the entire chair up from its base and so assists the user to a standing position. In the United States, lift chairs qualify as Durable Medical Equipment, but may or may not be covered by your specific insurance. Lift chairs usually come in three types, the three position, the Infinite position, and the zero gravity. The three position lift chair can recline to a nearly flat position as well as every position in-between. The ottoman and the back operate together - as the back reclines, the footrest raises. Of course, the chair also lifts up to provide a standing position for the user. Infinite position is similar to the three position, except that it has motors that are separate and the leg support and back support do not move in sync with the others. This allows a larger variety of positions that can be used on the chair. Zero gravity chairs can provide a patient a feeling as though they are not restricted by the pull of gravity, this allows the relief of pressure from many body parts. Recliner chairs are beneficial to patients recovering from knee, hip and shoulder surgeries. Also heart surgery and abdominal surgery patients will benefit as well from the use of lift chairs post surgery. Lift chairs help by relieving pressure on the surgery site as patients attempt to sit, stand, or lay down. It can also be beneficial in the case of chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis muscle atrophy, and other similar chronic ailments.
Read moreWhat is a CPM Machine?
TRUEed studies suggest that continuous passive motion (CPM) can improve range of motion (ROM) in those patients undergoing surgical release of arthrofibrosis of the knee or manipulation of the knee under anesthesia. In these settings, CPM provides for early post-operative motion and is considered a substitute for active physical therapy (PT). Once the patient is participating in active PT, CPM is no longer medically necessary. These observations may be extended to other joints, such as the elbow where arthrofibrosis is a common complication of trauma. Of all the applications of CPM, the scientific evidence is perhaps strongest for its use in promoting cartilage growth. In addition, clinical studies suggest that CPM can enhance cartilage healing during the non weight-bearing period following surgery for intra-articular cartilage fractures, chondroplasties of focal cartilage defects and surgical treatment of osteochondritis dissecans. Once the patient is weight-bearing, CPM is no longer necessary. Imagine sitting in a car or on an airplane for several hours. When you stand up, often times your knees are a little cranky and stiff. The same thing happens after you have had a joint repaired. Your body reacts by swelling the area around the joint in order to protect it. The swelling limits the range of motion in the affected joint and makes it more difficult for the patient to move. When you use a CPM machine either during the day or at night while you sleep, the continuous motion helps to keep the joint flexible and helps to increase the patient’s range of motion. Ultimately, patients recover more quickly and are able to resume their daily activities. If you’d like more information on CPM therapy, this short video does a great job of showing a CPM in use. Or, give one of our friendly representatives a call at 713-669-0518 or 800-649-0314. If you would like to rent a CPM machine, click here or call us.
Read moreWhat is a Nebulizer
A nebulizer, an electric atomizer that dispenses medication as a fine spray, may work better than an inhaler, especially for kids or to treat severe bouts of asthma. If you or someone you love has asthma, your doctor may suggest using a nebulizer as a way to deliver the medicine that helps control asthma symptoms. This optional asthma treatment contains the same medication as an inhaler but delivers it in a different way. Its users generally are too sick or too young to breathe in deeply and use an inhaler effectively. Asthma Treatment: How a Nebulizer Works A nebulizer is basically a small air-compressor that converts medication into an air mist that you can breathe in through a mouth piece or mask. You can either get a table-top nebulizer that plugs into an outlet, or a portable nebulizer that is easier to move around and can either plug in to an outlet or can run on batteries Asthma Treatment: How to Use Your Nebulizer Here are some suggestions for using a nebulizer for the first time. Check with your doctor for specific instructions and be sure to read all the accompanying package materials. Familiarize yourself with every part of your nebulizer before using it. Make sure you are sitting comfortably. Put the mask in place and breathe evenly, with occasional deep breaths, until the medicine has been fully vaporized out of the cup. If you are using a face mask, keep it over your nose and mouth. The NHLBI estimates that using a face mask cuts the amount of medication delivered in half. Expect the entire process to take up to 10 minutes. Clean the mouthpiece or face mask and the medicine cup after use. Failing to clean the nebulizer properly can lead to bacterial infections. Asthma Treatment: Drawbacks to Nebulizers The decision to use a nebulizer should be made by you and your doctor. Nebulizers can be more expensive than inhalers, depending on your health coverage, and since they require electricity, it makes them a poor choice if your home frequently experiences power outages. And it is important to know that while the same amount of medication is ultimately delivered to you when you use a table-top or portable nebulizer, you will have a higher prescribed dose than what you get with an inhaler because more of the medication is deposited along the way, says Castriotta. In fact, you should never take more than the prescribed amount, whether you use an inhaler or nebulizer, he stresses. Getting a higher dose of medication means that you might be more at risk for a drug’s side effects (like the jitters, racing heartbeat or feelings of anxiety), which will vary depending on the medication used. Despite the drawbacks, nebulizers can provide relief when inhalers fail to relieve your asthma symptoms. Consider asking your doctor whether your asthma will require treatment with a nebulizer in the foreseeable future. With asthma, it’s always good to be one step ahead. Contact us at +1 713-669-0518 if you need to order a Nebulizer today.
Read moreAfter Knee Surgery…
As we get older our bodies just don’t have the resiliency that they used to when we were younger. Even the most active people can develop conditions with their bones and joints that are out of their control. If you and your doctor have tried many treatments that just are not working to heal your stiff, painful knee, then knee replacement surgery may be the best solution for you. There are many reasons why people have knee replacement surgery and can be something that doesn’t have to keep you down and inactive. Having a new knee replacement can be something that can get you back out there and more mobile then you have been in a long time, especially if you have suffered from not being able to perform the simplest of activities. After having the surgery, you need to make sure that you are equipped with a CPM to exercise your knee and walking aids that will help you walk around while you are rehabilitating your knee. The MedEquip Shop has the physical therapy supplies you will need while you are in the recovery process and allow yourself to heal fully. After having knee replacement surgery, you will more than likely be standing and moving the joint the day after your procedure. In the beginning you will be walking with the assistance of parallel bars which will then be transitioned into a mobile walking device such as a walker, crutches, or a walking cane until you are able to support the entire weight of your body on that joint. The MedEquip Shop offers many of these professional and high quality walking aids that will get you back to being the active you. Call us today and speak to one of our professional team members and they will help you find the right walking aid for you.
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