Our lungs, when not damaged, need approx. 21% oxygen in order to keep the body alive and functioning properly. That is the amount contained in room air (aka ambient air).
A pulse oximeter or a blood gas test can show what the oxygen level is in the bloodstream of a client. If the test shows that the oxygen in the client’s bloodstream is less than 88%, they will be considered for supplemental oxygen. What that means is that the 21% is not enough to allow them to function properly. The healthcare provider will determine how much supplemental oxygen the person will need depending on the situation (i.e.:at rest, exertion, during sleep).
When we breathe in air, our lungs will extract the oxygen and utilize it for muscle movement, heart function, and brain function; just to name a few systems it services. Oxygen goes into our lungs and then passes through a membrane into the bloodstream. When the lungs have been damaged, the membranes are not fully intact and oxygen no longer passes easily into the bloodstream. Just about every system in our body requires oxygen to function. Low oxygen levels can lead to memory issues, heart failure, and death. Anoxia refers to a condition where the body and brain do not receive enough oxygen to survive. This can cause brain damage, coma, and ultimately death. If your body requires “supplemental oxygen” it is imperative that you follow the prescription that has been laid out by your healthcare provider. If you modify the prescription yourself, you are at risk for many issues. Oxygen is a drug and it is regulated by the FDA in this country. Taking more or less than has been prescribed for your condition can lead to a multitude of health risks. Unfortunately, many people do not realize that oxygen is a drug, and they use their oxygen as they want, not necessarily the way it was prescribed.
Conditions that normally requires supplemental oxygen:
Lung tissue that has been destroyed or altered from these conditions prevents the oxygen from easily transferring from the lungs into the bloodstream. Depending on how long the lungs have undergone damage will depend on how they function. The longer the “offense” to the lungs, the more damage that can be realized.
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
My name is Laura Castricone and I am a Certified Respiratory Therapist. I have been practicing in the state of Connecticut since 1992. I have worked in several aspects of respiratory care ...
What Everyone Should Know About Resistance Band Colors
Resistance exercise bands come in a number of colors and it’s not just for decoration. Many people use these bands however, they do not have the knowledge of the colors and the purpose with which they are designed.
5 Facts about Syringes You Wish You Knew Before
A syringe is a pump consisting of a snugly fit piston(or plunger) within a calibrated glass or plastic cylinder called a barrel.The syringe is equipped with a hypodermic needle, nozzle, or tubing that helps direct the flow of medication.
TOP 5 BEST REVIEWED NEBULIZERS OF 2022
Breathing disorders, such as COPD or asthma, can be a major detriment when it comes to quality-of-life issues.Treating these breathing ailments with medications is the main course of treatment.Being able to deliver aerosol medication directly into the lungs in an expedited fashion is the best way to manage these lung disorders. The use of a nebulizer for aerosol medications allows for the efficient and easy delivery of these medications.
MINERAL OIL VS SALINE ENEMA: WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
An enema is used for many reasons.Just as there are many reasons, there are different types of enemas, each of which contains different ingredients and works differently in the body. While some may choose an enema to soften stool or for routine colon cleansing, the reason for using an enema may have more of a medical necessity.
FIVE BEST CERVICAL TRACTION DEVICES OF 2022
Cervical traction is a technique applied to the cervical region of the body to help alleviate neck pain, discomfort, and other physical conditions related to the cervical region.Cervical traction works by stressing the neck, pulling, and pushing, thus reducing the pressure on the spine, the neck, and the upper torso.Excessive stress on the neck, spine, and upper region, due to a wide range of conditions or injuries can cause severe pain and can lead to other complications.Cervical traction devices help alleviates these conditions thus offering overall body rehabilitation and treatment options.