Reliable information about oxygen therapy and portable oxygen concentrators
This section provides comprehensive educational guides about oxygen therapy and portable oxygen concentrators. Whether you have been recently diagnosed with hypoxemia or are looking to improve your experience with your current device, you will find reliable information covering everything you need to know — from understanding when oxygen is needed and hypoxemia symptoms, to choosing the right nasal cannula, solving common problems like nasal dryness and skin irritation, and maintaining your equipment through regular cleaning and maintenance. We also provide a guide to pulse oximetry in Kuwait for those who suspect low oxygen levels. All our guides are written in clear language and medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
Oxygen therapy is prescribed for patients whose blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂) drops below 88% at rest or during exertion. Common causes include COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, heart failure, and post-COVID syndrome. A portable oxygen concentrator delivers respiratory support during daily activity and mobility outside the home.
A portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is a medical device that extracts oxygen from room air and concentrates it to above 90% purity, then delivers it to the patient through a nasal cannula. Unlike heavy oxygen cylinders, a POC runs on electricity or battery and weighs under 2 kg, giving the patient freedom to move and travel.
Pulse-dose releases an oxygen bolus only at the start of each inhalation, saving battery and doubling utilization efficiency. Continuous flow delivers oxygen at a constant rate at all times, which is required for some cases during sleep or when using a full mask instead of a nasal cannula.
A nasal cannula is the most common method for low-to-moderate flow levels (1-6 L/min) and is suitable for home and ambulatory use. Oxygen masks are used for cases requiring higher concentrations and are usually limited to hospitals. The SG is designed for use with a nasal cannula.
The most common oxygen therapy side effects are nasal dryness, mild nosebleeds, and skin irritation around the cannula. Most can be resolved by using an oxygen humidifier bottle, replacing the cannula regularly, and applying a medical nasal moisturizer. Oxygen toxicity is very rare when following the prescribed dose.
Clean the external air filter weekly with mild soap and water, replace the nasal cannula every two weeks, and wipe the unit body with a damp cloth. Charge the battery to full after every use to extend its lifespan. With regular maintenance, the device stays efficient for years.
A pulse oximeter is a simple device placed on a fingertip that measures the percentage of oxygen in the blood. Normal values range 95-100%. Values 91-94% indicate mild hypoxemia, 86-90% moderate, and ≤85% severe. Oxygen therapy is typically prescribed at SpO₂ ≤ 88% at rest or during exertion.
Adjusting to a portable oxygen concentrator typically takes 3-7 days. Start by using it at home to learn how the device works, fully charge the battery every night, carry a spare battery when going out for more than 3 hours, and notify your airline 48 hours before travel to get approval for carrying the device.