10 Ways Portable Oxygen Concentrators Make Life Easier

10 Ways Portable Oxygen Concentrators Make Life Easier

Portable oxygen concentrators are devices designed to assist patients with respiratory conditions or other ailments that cause breathing difficulty. They help individuals breathe without straining their lungs or adding pressure to their brains. The most significant benefit is that portable concentrators do not have to be refilled frequently and can be charged anytime, anywhere. They filter the surrounding air and collect concentrated oxygen, which is delivered to the patient through a nozzle.

Convenience of use
There are different kinds of portable oxygen concentrators, each with a unique functioning system. But irrespective of the type, these portable devices are convenient and easy to carry around without impacting day-to-day life. Given the wide range of choices, the canned oxygen concentrator is a suitable pick among the ones that are the easiest to use. It requires just one attachment to connect the nose and mouth mask to the spray nozzle. If one has been advised oxygen therapy and needs to monitor their oxygen intake, they can add a portable oxygen concentrator control panel to the setup. These panels track the pulse and oxygen flow and inform the user if something is wrong. Control panels also show the battery life of the concentrators, reminding the person to have a backup at hand. This is a valuable feature worth investing in.

Lifestyle maintenance
Many people with respiratory or other disorders requiring supplemental oxygen have restricted lifestyles. But thanks to portable oxygen concentrators, that can easily be remedied. The compact structure of these devices prevents individuals from limiting their movement and giving up on their active social or work life. Most tanks also come with AC/DC adapters, making it easy to recharge the machine quickly and easily whenever needed, thus saving time.

Better sleep
Those with respiratory issues usually find it hard to get quality sleep because of the lack of oxygen supply caused by their breathing difficulty. Sometimes, lower oxygen concentrations in the body and sleep problems impact a person’s overall health and the functioning of major organs. This is why portable oxygen concentrators are essential in improving one’s quality of life. They are a constant source of oxygen for patients with respiratory ailments, improving their sleep and health.

Flexibility
Portable concentrators are compact and convenient enough to be lugged around without hassle. They are also discreet as opposed to being hooked to a huge machine. This helps decrease patients’ awkwardness and reluctance to use them outside their homes. Users concerned about other people and their judgment can use these little tanks that do not grab attention. In other words, these compact devices enable patients to chase their goals and follow a routine without hindering them or wedging a wall between them and their regular life.

Mobility
The ease with which portable concentrators can be carried around makes them comfortable for patients of all ages. This also means patients across all walks of life can safely use them. For instance, those enthusiastic about sports or other activities can actively participate without sacrificing their dreams. These concentrators can be conveniently wheeled around when playing on a sports ground. Patients who do not want to wheel the device around can simply carry it in a backpack and avoid unwanted attention.

Customization
Portable oxygen concentrators are not set at a single operation speed. It is possible to adjust the flow speed according to the user’s need or as advised by their doctor. These devices are also available in different sizes to suit the preferences of the patients that need to use them. Individuals can choose designs that work best for their routine and other requirements.

Safety
Traditional oxygen tanks can be a considerable fire hazard since they may develop a leak. Portable concentrators, on the other hand, are relatively safer. One reason they are a lower potential risk is the lower amount of oxygen they carry.

Better organ function
Better oxygen flow to the brain can lower the possibility of brain fog and improve a person’s brain and bodily function. Further, the improved oxygen supply to the lungs helps increase the organ’s oxygen-carrying capacity and pass it on to the rest of the respiratory system and blood. Owing to the higher oxygen concentration in the blood, the organs in different body areas can function correctly.

Reliable treatment
Oxygen concentrators have proven beneficial for patients with several respiratory ailments like asthma and COPD. Those with COPD may frequently require concentrators to combat the lack of proper oxygen supply in the body. Portable machines save patients from the inconvenience of using bulky oxygen tanks and encourage them to step out of the house more often without embarrassment.

Easy travel
Traveling with oxygen tanks is restrictive and exhausting. And catching a flight with one proves an absolute nightmare. But this is unavoidable because the lower oxygen in an aircraft cabin is a cause of concern for patients with respiratory illnesses. Thankfully, a portable oxygen concentrator can be carried on flights with some paperwork. Users may be able to check it in with their luggage, carry it in a backpack, or sit down with it.

Despite knowing how portable oxygen concentrators can help improve a patient’s quality of life, their higher cost might worry some. Those trying to determine the minimum amount they will have to invest in getting a good concentrator may be surprised to hear its price. As per estimates, the minimum cost is around $2,000. However, the exact figure will depend on the size, type, company, and the concentrator’s capacity. Individuals can rent these devices if the cost seems too much. Renting eliminates the worry about the purchase price and whether or not the machine will be helpful long term. In any case, it is crucial to research these machines and compare them to purchase or rent the right one.

Previous Read

Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

Next Read

Managing COPD – Safe Food Options and What to Avoid

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung condition that causes blocked airflow from the lungs. The signs and symptoms include wheezing, coughing up mucus (sputum), and breathing difficulty. While lung damage is a severe condition, lifestyle changes and medical care can help control COPD symptoms. They can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce breathing difficulties and flare-ups, and prevent further problems. Here is a list of foods that can help reduce COPD symptoms. High-protein food COPD patients frequently experience difficulty eating, resulting in unexpected muscle loss, weight loss, and malnutrition. As a result, they cannot meet their calorie and protein requirements. If there is a protein deficiency in the nutritional plan or insufficient calories are taken in, the respiratory muscles, which must be extremely strong during COPD, shrink, weaken, and worsen breathing problems. Therefore, it is advised to include protein in meals twice a day. Milk, eggs, cheese, meat, fish, etc., are excellent protein sources. Choose proteins with more fat, such as whole milk, cheese, and yogurt, to gain weight. Foods rich in vitamin D People with the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease eventually develop a vitamin D deficiency. It might be caused by using COPD prescriptions, which can interfere with the absorption of vitamin D. It could also be due to conditions like shortness of breath, which force people to spend less time outdoors where they could get adequate vitamin D from exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteoporosis (brittle bones), which is common in COPD patients. Vitamin D intake can be increased by eating foods like egg yolks, almond milk, salmon, canned light tuna, uncooked mushrooms, etc. High-fiber foods Another critical component of a COPD-friendly meal plan is fiber. It helps in the smooth passage of food through the digestive system. Also, it can ease bloating and constipation - two conditions that trigger breathing difficulties. A nutritional regime high in fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease. People with COPD are advised to eat 20–30 grams of fiber daily. Foods high in fiber include whole wheat bread, oatmeal, quinoa, whole grain cereals, and brown rice. Fruits and vegetables The lungs require a lot of potassium to function properly and stay healthy. Fresh fruits and vegetables rich in potassium include dark leafy greens, tomatoes, potatoes, avocados, asparagus, beets, bananas, and oranges. These are also good options for sugar-free fruits and vegetable salads. Excessive sugar intake can lead to diabetes and other health problems. Fruits and vegetables contain other essential vitamins and minerals that help strengthen the immune system and control infection. It is therefore advised to eat fruit and vegetables daily. Foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3-rich foods, such as cold-water fish and certain plant foods, may help to reduce COPD symptoms and lung inflammation. It eases other symptoms, like a persistent cough and wheezing. Omega-3 fats have anti-inflammatory properties and are high in calories, so they can help meet caloric requirements and provide adequate energy. These fats are crucial, considering the body does not produce them and must be ingested through food. Salmon, sardines, cod, flax seeds, walnuts, and eggs are omega-3-rich foods. Hydrating foods and beverages Staying hydrated is essential for overall health as it allows the body's organs to function correctly. COPD patients must drink plenty of water as their organs are already under stress. They also secrete a lot of phlegm and other secretions. Hydration will help thin the mucus, making it easier to clear one's lungs. To avoid overfilling the stomach, it is advised to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water throughout the day. Besides water, healthy, caffeine-free beverages such as milk, herbal teas, and juices can also help. Cucumbers, celery, and watermelon are also good sources of hydration. Foods to avoid Some foods can trigger gas and bloating while providing little to zero nutritional value. High sodium or salt intake causes water retention, which can affect breathing. Unsalted herbs and spices can be used to flavor dishes instead of salt. Consult a nutritionist before starting a low-sodium diet. Due to their fermentable carbohydrates, apples and stone fruits like apricots, peaches, and melons can make some people uncomfortable and bloated. Instead, low-fermentable fruits such as berries, pineapple, and grapes can reduce symptoms. There is a broad list of veggies and legumes known to cause bloating and gas. If this is the case for some, beans, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and corn should be avoided. If not, eating them is not harmful. One should avoid dairy products since they can add to the problem of excessive phlegm in COPD. These consist of milk and milk-based products, such as butter, cheese, ice cream, and yogurt. Fried, deep-fried, or oily foods can cause gas and indigestion. Spiced foods might also cause discomfort and interfere with breathing. Tips for leading a healthy lifestyle with COPD COPD can be difficult to live with; therefore, making food preparation a simple and stress-free process is essential. Instead of three large meals a day, try eating five to six smaller ones. Eating more frequently but in smaller portions may help prevent overeating and allow the lungs to expand, which eases breathing. Eat one large meal as early in the day as possible. It will give you more energy all day long. Pick meals that are simple and easy to prepare. It helps save energy and reduce the stress of preparing meals. Make a larger portion of a meal to refrigerate and prepare later without extra work. Any changes in eating habits, like inclusions and exclusions of food items, must be discussed with a healthcare expert first to avoid complications.

Our Blogs

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Invisible Braces – Benefits, Costs, and Top Brands

Braces are the go-to option most people choose for straightening teeth and jaws. This treatment provides aesthetic benefits, helps improve oral health, and relieves pressure from the joints. Traditionally, the base material used to be metal, but the latest developments in dental technology have given us a new option. This article gives you in-depth details about what makes invisible braces so popular, how much these products cost, and the best brands. What are invisible braces? Invisible braces, commonly known as clear aligners, are transparent dental trays that are used to correct your bite. These trays are usually worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. As the teeth shift, you have to make a new invisible tray every one or two weeks. Invisible braces are quite similar to retainers, but the former is used the slowly align your teeth while the latter keeps your teeth in place. Benefits The biggest benefit of invisible braces that’s quite evident at first sight is the fact that they are transparent. Factors like the lack of wires, bands, and brackets make these braces suitable for people of all ages, especially adults. Unlike the metal and ceramic counterparts, these braces can be removed at any time, which makes them easy to clean as well.
Read More
Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Overactive Bladder – Common Causes and Management Techniques

Those suffering from an overactive bladder experience an increased urge to urinate. Such an uncontrollable need significantly compromises one’s quality of life. Issues that arise from this condition may lead the patient to compromise or rearrange their daily routine around their diagnosis. One may even suffer from bladder-related symptoms due to complications from other diseases like diabetes. This article highlights the significant causes as well as management techniques of an overactive bladder in patients: Causes Overactive bladder can result from various reasons such as unhealthy lifestyle choices, age, and underlying health conditions. Here are some of the common causes that lead to the development of this urological condition:  Poor pelvic muscle strength Pelvic muscles provide the lower abdomen with the necessary support. As a person ages, their muscles tend to lose strength. Weak muscles are, thus, a common causative factor that leads to the development of an overactive bladder. Factors like pregnancy and childbirth are also known to weaken the pelvic floor muscles.    Nerve damage This cause of an overactive bladder is quite common as the nerves can sustain damage from conditions like multiple sclerosis and herniated discs. This damage affects the signal transfer among the brain and other body parts, including the bladder.
Read More
Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

Top 9 Life Alert System Providers for Seniors

A medical alert system consists of life-saving devices that instantly connect the user with emergency help with the push of a button. Such equipment helps seniors live independently and offers peace of mind to their loved ones and caregivers. A good-quality life alert system for seniors has several useful medical features like fall detection, GPS tracking, and professional monitoring. In this article, we’ve listed the best medical alert systems for seniors out there today. Medical Guardian Founded in 2005, Medical Guardian is known for designing best-in-class life alert devices and systems. Depending on the lifestyle of a senior individual, they can choose between different types of On-The-Go and In-House systems. Almost every Medical Guardian life alert system for seniors features its state-of-the-art fall detection technology, along with other essential features like GPS location tracking, extra neck/wrist buttons, and water resistance. This company’s medical alert products have the longest battery life (up to 168 hours) and furthest signal range (up to 1300 feet) compared to any other product on the market. Medical Guardian also has a highly reliable monitoring center that operates 24/7. Bay Alarm Medical With over 70 years of experience in life alert devices, Bay Alarm Medical is one of the most trusted providers in the country.
Read More
Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

Dental Implants – Its Types and Associated Costs

The ability of dentures or implants to mimic natural teeth is so impressive that it has changed millions of lives worldwide. These prosthetics are used when natural teeth have significant issues. With a little maintenance, they can be an efficient and long-lasting solution. So, if you are planning to get them yourself, the following article can help you know the factors to consider and the prices of dental implants and dentures. How do dental implants work? Before discussing dental implant prices, it is essential to understand how they work. Dental implants consist of three different pieces that serve distinct functions, as given below: Implant post Also known as the fixture, this small, cylindrical screw acts as an artificial root for the tooth. Abutment This piece connects the implant post and the crown. There are various types of abutments depending on the prosthetic type requiring support. Crown The final piece of the entire prosthetic, the crown rests on the top of the abutment. It can be made from porcelain, metal, resin, or ceramics. Porcelain or ceramic crowns look the most natural. Costs of dental implants Depending on one’s needs, there are four types of dental implants. Given below are average costs for the same:
Read More
Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

Dental Procedures That Don’t Need Braces for Teeth Alignment

If your teeth alignment has always made you conscious of your smile, you need to address the issue. Crowded or crooked teeth and crossbites can majorly affect your facial profile and the way you chew your food. The insecurity and complications of a crossbite only grow with age. If you’re contemplating ways to align your teeth, and you want to achieve that without braces, you’ve come to the right place.  This article discusses teeth alignment options that are possible without prominent braces. Invisalign It is one of the most popular ways of teeth alignment without braces. The treatment involves using a set of clear retainer trays made to fit the moving teeth. You will be given a set of new retainer trays every two weeks to make the desired changes. They can be removed when eating, but one needs to ensure they have them on for at least 22 hours in a day. The treatment tenure depends on the severity of the case and takes approximately around 12 to 24 months to align teeth. Advantages They are invisible, so you won’t have to avoid social gatherings or feel awkward They are removable, which makes cleaning the trays and teeth easy  These can be removed when having a meal, which means fewer restrictions when eating Disadvantages Invisalign is a more expensive option  The flexibility of removing trays can elongate the treatment if not worn for prescribed hours  Some may develop a lisp or speak awkwardly with trays Inman Aligner This is another efficient way of teeth alignment without braces.
Read More
Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Signs and Remedies of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary fibrosis is a severe lung disease that occurs when the lung tissue is damaged and scarred. The scarring leads to thickened, stiff tissues and makes it difficult for the lungs to work efficiently. Several factors may cause pulmonary fibrosis. However, doctors cannot assess what triggers the condition. While the damage to the lungs is irreversible, there are several remedies that can help. So here are the signs of pulmonary fibrosis and some remedies. The signs of pulmonary fibrosis Before getting into the remedies of the condition, let’s learn about the signs of pulmonary fibrosis. Doing so can ensure proper diagnoses and care at the earliest. The first sign of pulmonary fibrosis is getting out of breath. The symptom occurs when the person exerts themselves through physical exercise. When the condition progresses, the affected individual may find it hard to breathe even with little to no physical activity. Older people who experience shortness of breath often confuse the condition as a sign of aging, failing to diagnose the disease early. Other signs of pulmonary fibrosis include: A dry cough. The sudden loss of weight. Fatigue. Pain in the muscles and joints. Clubbing, a condition that results in the widening and rounding at the tips of the fingers or toes.
Read More