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What is supplemental oxygen?

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• Oxygen is an invisible gas that your body needs to live. Your lungs take the oxygen out of the air you breathe and put it into your blood. Your blood takes the oxygen to your brain and all of the cells in your body. Your cells use oxygen and nutrition from the foods you eat to make the energy they need to function.


• You may need supplemental (extra) oxygen if you have problems with your lungs, heart, or blood. Your body may also need extra oxygen after some injuries, such as burns. You may need extra oxygen when traveling to high altitudes or traveling by plane. You may need oxygen if you were exposed to a toxic substance, such as cyanide or carbon monoxide.


• Supplemental oxygen is thought of as a drug. You must have a prescription (pree-SKRIP-shun) from a doctor for oxygen therapy in order to get it. The prescription will include how much oxygen you should have, and how often. Getting too much oxygen may be dangerous. Always use your oxygen as directed by your caregiver.


• Oxygen therapy may help you feel better. You may sleep better, be more alert, and be in a better mood. You may be able to carry out your daily activities without feeling as tired or as short of breath. You may only need supplemental oxygen during certain activities, such as sleeping or exercising. You may need to have oxygen on all of the time. You may need oxygen therapy for a short time, or for the rest of your life.

Other frequently asked questions:

What is oxygen?
How is oxygen made and stored?
What kinds of oxygen equipment are there?
How do I use home oxygen?
How do I order oxygen once it is prescribed?
How do I leave home with my oxygen equipment?
What kind of oxygen delivery devices are there?
What do I need to know of using oxygen equipment?
How heavy are portable tanks?
Can I refill the portable tank myself?
Can I drive or travel while using oxygen?
What do I do if I run out of oxygen?
Is there anything I cannot do while using oxygen?
How can I use my oxygen equipment safely?
How do I prevent skin problems while using oxygen equipment?