I Was Prescribed Supplemental Oxygen. Now What?

This article was written by Michael W. Hess, MPH, RRT, RPFT.

Maybe you have just had a COPD flare that put you in the hospital. Maybe you went to one of your health care providers and told them you were short of breath, even though you are taking all your meds. Whatever the reason, you were prescribed something called "oxygen therapy."

A couple of days later, a van shows up at your door to drop off a big plastic box that has your new oxygen machine, along with a number of metal tanks, some plastic tubing, and a few "No Smoking" signs. The delivery driver probably showed you how to turn the oxygen machine on and off and gave you a number to call if an alarm went off.

And then they left.

Managing oxygen therapy involves much more than turning the machine on and off. Yet most people receive only the most basic instructions. Fewer than 10% of people are taught how to use their equipment by a trained health care professional.¹ Even when someone such as a respiratory therapist gives guidance, it usually covers medical things like checking blood oxygen levels. Many people still have practical questions and concerns that go beyond medical care. Can I wear my cannula in the shower? How do I keep my pets from chewing on the tubing? Will I have to replace my gas stove because it has a flame? Recently, someone even asked a primary care practitioner friend of mine if they could participate in a water aerobics class while using their oxygen.

The best way to get answers to questions like these is to ask other people using oxygen therapy. Many hospitals sponsor support groups for people looking to do that. Members of these groups are usually very willing to share their experiences and life hacks that can make living with oxygen equipment easier. They are usually led by a clinician who can give some medical opinions, too.

Online resources can help, too. The COPD Foundation offers a downloadable Oxygen Therapy Basics guide. This booklet covers things like how to read your prescription, but also things like travel tips and planning for emergencies. We worked with the American Thoracic Society to create an entire website, YouAndOxygenTherapy.com, with practical tips from patients.

Of course, not everyone has access to an in-person group. That is why we offer a monthly discussion group online called OxyTalk. OxyTalk brings together anyone interested in oxygen therapy to share stories, answer questions, and support each other. We see patients, caregivers, and clinicians all chatting together every month. Beginning in 2027, OxyTalk will also have monthly educational topics covering things you might not hear during office visits. OxyTalk is held on the second Wednesday of every month at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. When you register, you will get a reminder the day before each session to make it easier for you to join us.

If you feel overwhelmed when you first get your oxygen equipment, you are NOT alone. Many people have been exactly where you are right now. It is extremely important that you do not give up on your new therapy, no matter how intimidating it may seem. The training and support you need is out there. Whether it is an in-person support group, a social media group, or an interactive chat like OxyTalk, there is a whole community out there to help you!