Signs Your Loved One Might Need Oxygen Therapy and How to Get Started with Apollo Homecare

When our close one struggles with a chronic health condition, especially related to the lungs or heart, we often try to ease their discomfort. In that case, oxygen therapy can become a key component of their care plan. In this blog, we will understand the signs of the need for oxygen therapy, its benefits and how to start oxygen therapy at home with Apollo Homecare.

 

Understanding Oxygen Therapy at Home

Patients who struggle to maintain adequate blood oxygen levels are being supported with supplementary oxygen. This is known as oxygen therapy. In a home setting, oxygen therapy helps patients maintain aerobic metabolism without being admitted to a hospital. Depending on the condition, oxygen therapy at home can be done through portable oxygen cylinders or concentrators.

 

Oxygen therapy signs and symptoms

How do you understand whether someone needs supplemental oxygen or not? There are various oxygen therapy signs and symptoms that indicate when one requires supplementary oxygen. Once you understand these signs, you can take a step and intervene in any risk factors on time. Here are some of the primary indicators:

 

· Chronic Shortness of Breath

If someone faces breathing difficulties, even while resting or doing light activities, it could indicate the need for oxygen. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma are some examples of diseases in which the tendency to shorten of breath worsens over time.

 

· Frequent Fatigue and Weakness

Inadequate oxygen in the body creates tiredness and muscle weakness. Feeling frequently fatigued even after proper rest is a serious indicator that the body is not receiving enough oxygen.

 

· Bluish or Pale Skin Color (Cyanosis)

When blood oxygen levels are critically low, a bluish tinge appears on the lips or fingertips – this is known as Cyanosis. It clearly indicates that oxygen therapy is required in the body.

 

· Chronic Cough and Wheezing

A persistent cough or wheezing can indicate restricted airflow, especially in patients with lung conditions. This indicates the need for oxygen therapy to maintain healthier blood oxygen levels.

 

· Difficulty Concentrating

Lack of oxygen in the body affects brain function. It leads to confusion, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating. If someone is experiencing cognitive difficulties, it could be a sign that they are not getting enough oxygen.

 

· Rapid Heart Rate (Tachycardia)

When oxygen levels are low, the heart tries to compensate by working harder. This overwork increases the heart rate, a symptom of the body’s need for oxygen to ease the heart’s load.

 

· Frequent Episodes of Chest Pain or Angina

Low oxygen levels can sometimes worsen chest pain or cause angina. Hence, oxygen therapy is an effective way to ensure that the vital organs receive enough oxygen.

 

 

Benefits of Oxygen Therapy at Home

Here are a few oxygen therapy benefits which not only helps but also improve overall quality of life:

· Increased Energy: When oxygen levels are restored, patients feel more energetic and can easily engage in everyday activities.

· Improved Heart and Lung Function: Oxygen therapy reduces the strain on the heart and lungs, supporting cardiovascular and respiratory stability.

· Enhanced Cognitive Function: With adequate oxygen, patients experience better mental clarity and focus, which improves their quality of life.

· Faster Recovery: Oxygen therapy at home supports recovery from acute conditions and helps manage chronic respiratory illnesses more effectively.

· Greater Quality of Life: The portable oxygen option allows patients to move around, attend social gatherings, and continue daily routines without feeling restricted.

 

 

Types of Home Oxygen Therapy Options

· Oxygen Cylinders: Oxygen cylinders are helpful for short-term use or emergency oxygen needs. Apollo Homecare offers oxygen cylinders for rental or buying purposes. These reliable sources of oxygen come in various sizes. The sizes become extremely helpful during transportation or speedy needs.

· Oxygen Concentrators: An oxygen concentrator is a device that filters and concentrates oxygen from the air. So, if one needs a steady oxygen supply, an oxygen concentrator is the best choice. Apollo Homecare offers devices such as the Inogne G5 System. This device is a lightweight, portable solution for patients who need a continuous oxygen supply. It has six flow settings and operates quietly, ensuring patients can use it at home or while travelling.

· Ventilators: If someone needs a more advanced level of respiratory support, the ventilators would be useful. Apollo Homecare’s Vivo 3 Bi-Level Ventilator is another example. This offers various modes, such as, Non-invasive ventilation and High-Flow Nasal Therapy (HFNT), providing respiratory comfort and flexibility.

· Pulse Oximeters: After the COVID, everyone more or less has a pulse oximeter in their home. This device measures blood oxygen saturation. Apollo Homecare offers pulse oximeters that allow patients to monitor oxygen levels at home. Therefore, one can track the effectiveness of their oxygen therapy on their own.

 

 

Home Oxygen Therapy Guide with Apollo Homecare

Now that we understand the types of oxygen therapy let’s learn how to start oxygen therapy with Apollo Homecare. Here are the steps: · Consultation with a Physician: Contact Apollo or any healthcare provider who can examine the oxygen needs and determine the right oxygen therapy method.

· Select the Right Equipment: Based on the recommendation, Apollo Homecare can help you choose the most suitable equipment. Whether it is an oxygen cylinder, concentrator, or ventilator, you will get a device as per your needs.

· Choose Between Rent or Purchase Options: Apollo Homecare offers flexible equipment rental and purchase plans for oxygen therapy at home. This option makes it convenient for both short-term and long-term use.

· Ongoing Monitoring and Support: Apollo Homecare’s devices, like the Vivo 3, have remote monitoring capabilities. This enables healthcare providers to oversee oxygen levels and adjust settings if necessary.

· Education and Training: Apollo Homecare provides equipment usage training. This helps caregivers and family members to operate the equipment safely and effectively.

 

 

Conclusion

If your loved one shows signs of needing oxygen therapy, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance. Oxygen therapy can make a meaningful difference in their energy levels, respiratory comfort, and overall well-being. Apollo Homecare is dedicated to making oxygen therapy at home as seamless and beneficial as possible. Offering a wide range of oxygen solutions, including oxygen cylinders, concentrators, ventilators, and pulse oximeters, Apollo Homecare ensures patients receive top-quality care in the comfort of their own homes.

 

Apollo Homecare’s devices and clinical expertise follow international guidelines. Every physician, nurse, and technician are a well-trained and accredited professional, who guides patients at all levels. Whether you need equipment for rent or purchase, Apollo Homecare’s commitment to high standards means your loved one will receive the care and support they need.