Up until recently, patients that required regular oxygen therapy had to rely on oxygen tanks that were not just big but often heavy as well. Luckily, new technological breakthroughs mean that you can now purchase a portable oxygen concentrator, which creates oxygen instead of having you carry around a finite supply.
An added benefit of this innovative device is that they may now be covered by MEDICARE, making them even more accessible for everyone.
Portable Oxygen Concentrators Are Ideal for COPD
COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic and incurable condition that affects the lungs and gets worse with time. The COPD Foundation reports that around 30 million Americans are affected. [1] Still, COPD symptoms can be kept under control, especially shortness of breath, with supplemental oxygen.
While COPD patients requiring oxygen therapy may have shied away from leaving their home in the past due to the weight and bulk of oxygen tanks, now they can take advantage of portable and compact oxygen concentrators which don’t need refills. These units work on batteries that last as long as 12 hours, but also come with power adapters for charging.
Enjoy Mobility and Travel With Ease
Anyone who relies on an oxygen tank knows how difficult it is to travel and that flying is practically impossible. During air travel, passengers experience a decrease in air pressure that can make it difficult to breathe for lung disease patients. Worse yet, you’re not allowed to bring oxygen tanks aboard.
Fortunately, more than a few portable oxygen concentrators have been approved by the FAA for those who want to fly. [2] Even so, always check with the airline whether you can bring your concentrator into the airplane. If you cannot be disconnected from the oxygen concentrator, you might be searched by the TSA. Otherwise, you will be able to pack it into your carry-on bag.
A Portable Oxygen Concentrator Comes With Other Benefits
Before buying a portable oxygen concentrator, people often overlook just how much of an advantage it is to be able to freely move for your overall mood. Whether it’s a grocery trip, a visit to relatives, or enjoying recreational activities, one such device will quickly prove invaluable to you. A portable oxygen concentrator can be quite compact and lightweight, and fit into a shoulder bag.
Another hidden benefit of a portable oxygen concentrator is the fact that your sleep is likely to improve. It can deliver a steady flow of oxygen and give you a good night’s sleep every time. Thanks to this, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and will be more likely to exercise as a result.
How Much Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Cost?
Prices of portable oxygen concentrators depend on their weight and how much oxygen they can store. According to CostHelper, [3] your machine might cost from $2,000 to $6,000. But you don’t have to buy one outright; you can rent it as well on a monthly basis.
Other than that, patients needing a portable oxygen concentrator can get it at a reduced price or even without paying anything. This depends on your insurance company and whether you have a recommendation or prescription from your doctor.
In any case, you should do your own research and compare offers online to find the best option for your budget and insurance plan in the least amount of time.
[1]”COPD Across America: How Does Your State Compare?” COPD Foundation, accessed April 2020. https://www.copdfoundation.org/What-is-COPD/Understanding-COPD/Statistics.aspx
[2]”Acceptance Criteria for Portable Oxygen Concentrators.” Federal Aviation Administration, August 22, 2026. https://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/cabin_safety/portable_oxygen/
[3]”Oxygen Concentrators: How Much Do Oxygen Concentrators Cost.” costhelperhealth, accessed April 2020. https://health.costhelper.com/oxygen-concentrator.html
