Inhale, exhale. Breathing is the most important thing we do. Our cells throughout our brain and body need a constant supply of oxygen to function properly and remain safe and healthy.

For many of us, our brain and body manage this important process automatically, and the body’s oxygen distribution system operates without a second thought. But if you have health conditions that impact your respiratory system, getting enough oxygen into your body on a consistent basis might be a challenge. And if your body is struggling to get the oxygen you need, OxiMedical can help.

Here are 3 signs that it might be time to consider oxygen therapy:  

1. Regular activities in your daily routine cause shortness of breath

If getting ready in the morning, walking to the mailbox, or buttering your toast cause rapid breathing, increased heart rate, or shortness of breath, your body is likely not getting enough oxygen.  

2. Other abnormal mental and physical behaviors

Coughing, sweating, or other abnormal physical behaviors may also be an indication of low oxygen levels. Confusion, disorientation, dizziness, and lightheadedness may also be indicators that the body and brain are short on oxygen.  

3. Oxygen saturation level is below 89%

The best way to know for certain whether supplemental oxygen would benefit you is to measure your oxygen saturation levels. Normal blood oxygen levels typically range from 98%-100%. Supplemental oxygen becomes necessary for blood oxygen saturation levels under 89%.  

You can test your own oxygen saturation level using a fingertip pulse oximeter, available at your local pharmacy or by ordering online, but if you believe you need supplemental oxygen, talk to your health care provider about testing options they provide. If they determine that your oxygen saturation levels are below 89%, they can prescribe oxygen, and inform you when to use it (for example, you may only require supplemental oxygen when sleeping or performing physical activity).

Oxygen therapy and supplemental oxygen can help your brain and body get the oxygen you need – and it doesn’t have to stop you from living your best life! OxiMedical offers a variety of oxygen machine options catered to people undergoing oxygen therapy who want to continue to live active lives. Visit OxiMedical.com to change your oxygen and change your life.  

Sources: https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/the-need-for-supplemental-oxygen#6

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/oxygen-therapy

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/the-need-for-supplemental-oxygen#:~:text=When%20the%20oxygen%20saturation%20falls,then%20supplemental%20oxygen%20is%20needed.