Portable Oxygen concentrator
Do you require a portable oxygen concentrator?
If you require oxygen therapy but still want to remain mobile – for example, to go shopping, walking or travelling – then this is the solution for you. Portable oxygen concentrators are ideal for people who want to maintain an active lifestyle, as they are more compact and lighter than traditional oxygen tanks, allowing you to get oxygen at home and on the go.
Reasons to use a portable oxygen concentrator:
Maintain mobility: they offer the freedom to engage in outdoor activities such as shopping, visiting a restaurant or going on holiday.
Improved quality of life: constant use of oxygen can improve exercise tolerance and increase stamina, leading to more daily activity.
Travel: you can fly with a portable oxygen concentrator if you follow the airline's specific rules and carry a valid medical certificate.
Safety: a portable concentrator is safer than an oxygen tank because it is not under high pressure.
Important considerations:
Medical advice: Always consult a doctor before using an oxygen concentrator. Your doctor will determine whether your oxygen saturation justifies the use of an oxygen concentrator, particularly during rest and exertion.
Application: Healthcare providers will prescribe an oxygen concentrator if your oxygen saturation is below a certain threshold (e.g., below 89%) during rest and exertion.
Power supply: Consider battery life and ensure you bring the necessary charging equipment, especially for long journeys.
Air travel: If you are flying, you must contact the airline well in advance to request permission and arrange the necessary documentation. It is often mandatory to carry extra batteries, which must be transported separately and protected.
There are five important factors to consider when purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator:
- Oxygen concentration
- Flow rate/litres per minute in pulse or continuous mode (for continuous mode, the maximum is 3 litres per minute)
- Noise level
- Weight
- Battery life
Prices for portable oxygen concentrators start at €999 and go up to €3,200.