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Oxygen Therapy

Long-term oxygen use in the treatment of chronic hypoxia increases life expectancy and quality.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göğüs Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Oxygen Therapy?

Oxygen therapy is the support of tissue oxygenation by external supplementation of missing oxygen in conditions where adequate oxygen saturation (SpO2) cannot be maintained in the blood. It can be applied in acute and chronic forms.

There is a long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) indication in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, interstitial lung diseases, and chronic respiratory failure. Persistent decline of PaO2 below 55 mmHg is the main criterion for LTOT.

Oxygen can be delivered via nasal cannula, mask, reservoir mask, or mechanical ventilator circuit. Portable liquid oxygen systems or oxygen concentrators are used for home oxygen.

Symptoms

Hypoxia (low oxygen): cyanosis, shortness of breath
Decrease of oxygen saturation below 90%
Confusion and mental changes
Saturation drop during exercise
Polycythemia and pulmonary hypertension in chronic hypoxia
Morning headache and weakness

Risk Factors

COPD and chronic respiratory failure
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Chronic heart failure
Obstructive sleep apnea (nocturnal hypoxia)
Neuromuscular diseases

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Pulmonology consultation if SpO2 is consistently below 90%
  • Increasing shortness of breath in COPD or IPF patients
  • Blood gas test and specialist evaluation for LTOT initiation
  • For oxygen device adjustment and follow-up

Treatment Methods

01
Oxygen administration via nasal cannula or mask at the required flow rate
02
Reduction of oxygen requirement with treatment of the underlying disease
03
Home oxygen concentrator or liquid oxygen system
04
SpO2 target generally 88-92% (due to risk of hypercapnia in COPD)
05
Clinical and blood gas check every 3 months

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göğüs Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göğüs Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.