Do you need oxygen therapy products, but don’t know which ones to buy?
Selecting the right oxygen therapy products can seem like an impossible task. There are so many different options out there and each one is claiming to be the best. But here’s the thing…
Picking the wrong oxygen equipment could leave you wasting money, getting poor results or worst-case scenario – using oxygen therapy equipment that doesn’t even work for your medical condition.
Luckily, once you understand the basics of oxygen therapy equipment you will find it is actually quite simple to choose the right one for you.
In this buying guide, we will cover:
- What Are Oxygen Therapy Products?
- The Three Main Types Of Oxygen Therapy Equipment
- 5 Key Factors To Consider When Purchasing Oxygen Equipment
- Choosing Oxygen Therapy Equipment For Your Lifestyle
What Are Oxygen Therapy Products?
Oxygen therapy products supply a steady stream of supplemental oxygen to patients with lung diseases and breathing difficulties.
Oxygen therapy products help oxygen levels in the bloodstream remain at a healthy level when the lungs are not able to do it naturally. Over 11.1 million adults in the United States have COPD and many of them depend on oxygen therapy products every single day.
Here’s why using the right oxygen equipment is important:
If oxygen levels in your bloodstream get too low your body won’t function properly. Your brain, your heart, and other vital organs need oxygen to operate. Using the correct oxygen therapy products help ensure you’re getting just what you need.
But, there is something else that most people don’t realise…
Oxygen therapy products aren’t all created equal. Some are better suited to active lifestyles, some are for home use only, and some are ideal for travel.
The Three Main Types Of Oxygen Therapy Equipment
If you’re browsing for oxygen therapy products you’ll notice that there are really only three main categories you’ll find.
Let’s look at what each one does.
Oxygen Concentrators
Oxygen concentrators are the most commonly used device for long term oxygen therapy.
The way that these machines work is that they extract oxygen from the air around them, remove nitrogen and deliver the oxygen in a concentrated form through a nasal cannula or face mask. They are reliable, affordable in the long run, and don’t need refilling.
The down side? Oxygen concentrators need to be plugged in to work.
Compressed Oxygen Cylinders
Oxygen cylinders contain compressed oxygen stored in metal tanks.
These are the traditional oxygen therapy products that most people think of. Cylinders come in all different sizes from small portable tanks to large stationary ones.
However, they need refilling on a regular basis and are often heavy to carry around.
Liquid Oxygen Systems
Liquid oxygen systems store oxygen in liquid form at extremely low temperatures.
Liquid oxygen systems are more compact than cylinders containing compressed oxygen gas, and a great option if you are looking for hyperbaric chamber cost and other oxygen therapy products. They are lightweight and portable and make the perfect choice for active individuals who like to keep up with an active lifestyle.
The problem? Liquid oxygen evaporates over time, even when not in use.
5 Key Factors To Consider When Purchasing Oxygen Equipment
Buying the best oxygen therapy products for your needs isn’t just a case of grabbing the cheapest or the one with the biggest marketing spend.
There are a few key factors that you must take into consideration when purchasing oxygen therapy equipment.
Your Oxygen Flow Needs
Different diseases and conditions require different oxygen flow rates.
Your doctor or healthcare professional will have prescribed a specific flow rate required to maintain proper oxygen levels, this will be measured in litres per minute (LPM). Some people only require 1-2 LPM, while others may need 5 LPM or more.
Portability And Your Lifestyle Needs
How active are you in your day-to-day life?
If you spend the vast majority of the day at home, then a stationary oxygen concentrator may be the perfect solution for you. However, if you are regularly on the move, or like to stay active, you need to purchase oxygen therapy equipment that is portable. The global oxygen therapy market reached $20.15 billion in 2024, a number driven primarily by the demand for portable oxygen therapy products.
Each of these activities all need portable oxygen therapy products that are going to fit into your lifestyle.
Maintenance And Operating Costs
The initial cost is not everything.
While oxygen concentrators may have higher upfront prices they will work out cheaper in the long run. Oxygen cylinders and liquid systems need regular refilling and the costs of delivery or pick up will soon mount up.
Noise Levels
This is one that people often don’t think about until it’s too late…
Oxygen concentrators can be noisy, especially the older ones on the market. If you’re planning to use your equipment while sleeping or in other quiet situations be sure to read the noise level specifications.
Choosing Oxygen Therapy Equipment For Your Lifestyle
And now for the part where we piece everything together.
The best oxygen therapy products for you are completely dependent on your individual situation. Let’s have a look at some examples to help you to make your decision.
For Homebodies
If you know you are going to be spending the majority of your time at home, a stationary oxygen concentrator is the way to go.
These units will provide you with unlimited oxygen without the need for refilling and are both reliable and cost-effective for 24/7 use.
For Active Individuals
If you are active and like to keep up with a busy lifestyle, you need oxygen therapy equipment that can keep up with you.
Portable oxygen concentrators are the number one choice for people like you. These are lightweight, rechargeable, and provide you with oxygen wherever you are.
For Travelers
Traveling can present some extra challenges for oxygen users.
The good news is that many of the portable oxygen concentrators are FAA approved for air travel. Check with the airline that you plan on using before booking your flight, but most airlines these days allow passengers who need supplemental oxygen to travel.
Making Your Final Decision
So, now you are ready to purchase your oxygen therapy equipment?
Start by having a chat with your healthcare provider or your doctor. They know your medical needs better than anyone else. Find out the exact flow rates you need, how many hours a day you need oxygen, and what your activity restrictions are.
The important thing is this:
Don’t rush into a decision. Research different models, read reviews from real people who have used the equipment, and if you can try out products before you buy.
The perfect oxygen therapy products can significantly enhance your quality of life. But only if you choose oxygen equipment that you are happy using consistently.
Final Thoughts On Selecting The Right Oxygen Therapy Products
Selecting the right oxygen therapy products really isn’t difficult.
There are just three things that you need to focus on. Your medical requirements, your lifestyle needs, and your budget. If all of these three things line up, then you will be left with equipment that is a perfect fit for your needs.