Low oxygen levels are a critical symptom of COVID-19. In the absence of oxygen cylinders, doctors may prescribe the use of oxygen concentrators. Oxygen concentrators are typically used in homes and mobile clinics, where the use of oxygen cylinders can be dangerous and cumbersome. The use of oxygen concentrators may seem daunting to a layperson. Understandably, they may have many questions regarding their proper use and what they need to keep in mind before purchasing one. We attempt to provide some basic information here.
How does an oxygen concentrator work?
The air we breathe consists of 78 per cent nitrogen, while oxygen makes up 21 per cent. Oxygen concentrators work on the principle of rapid pressure swing absorption. They collect oxygen from the surrounding air by using zeolite minerals to filter out nitrogen, thereby increasing the oxygen concentration. This oxygen is then delivered to the patient through nasal tubes and oxygen masks.
How is it different from an oxygen cylinder?
An oxygen cylinder contains a fixed amount of pure, pressurised oxygen, while concentrators deliver oxygen by absorbing the nitrogen out of surrounding air. Oxygen concentrators provide up to 95 per cent pure oxygen. They run on electricity, thus eliminating the need for refilling. They can provide unlimited oxygen for as long as they draw power. Oxygen concentrators are typically recommended to patients with mild COVID-19 if their oxygen saturation level lies between 90 and 94. If their oxygen level falls below 90, they will be advised to switch to an oxygen cylinder. Further, oxygen cylinders can fill a patient’s lungs with oxygen irrespective of their breathing capacity. However, for concentrators to work, the patient needs to be able to breathe on their own.
Things to keep in mind before buying a concentrator
A critical factor to note before buying an oxygen concentrator is the flow rate of the device, which is the rate at which oxygen travels from the device to the patient. Concentrators offer different flow rates, and you should consult a doctor on the patient’s oxygen requirements to choose your concentrator accordingly. Concentrators can also be classified based on the type of flow models they use. A Continuous Flow model delivers oxygen at a fixed flow rate, irrespective of whether the patient is inhaling or exhaling. A Pulse Dose model detects the patient’s breathing patterns and only delivers oxygen when they are inhaling.
Concentrators can be stationary or portable. Stationary concentrators rely on mains supply, while portable ones can also function on batteries. Portable concentrators are usually smaller and therefore have a lower flow rate. Battery-powered concentrators usually supply oxygen for under two hours when they are not powered directly by electricity. If you face frequent power cuts of short duration, battery-powered concentrators might be helpful to ensure a steady supply of oxygen.
Oxygen concentrators can provide timely medical care to patients facing breathing issues due to COVID-19. However, they should not be seen as a substitute for oxygen cylinders. Always consult a doctor to determine how much oxygen a patient needs and how to use the device correctly.
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