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There are hundreds of different types of treatments for our autoimmune diseases. On this page we will try to describe some of the oxygen equipment.

Oxygen Therapy: Equipment

Your doctor has prescribed oxygen. That's right, prescribed. It is classified as a “prescription drug.” You need a written prescription to use oxygen. So, you are prescribed oxygen. There are three different oxygen systems generally available. Which one you receive depends upon a number of factors, your doctor, the area you live in and also your oxygen supplier itself. (The examples used below may involve commercial sites. They are not meant as an endorsement of that particular brand or company. They are used only as an example of what is available and what those systems look like.)

Compressed Gas - Oxygen stored under pressure in a cylinder (or tank as we call it). This uses a “regulator” that is attached to the top that controls the oxygen flow. The oxygen flow is constant unless a “conserving device” is used (see Accessories below). There are several sizes of oxygen cylinders and each size is identified by a letter, E, B, M, etc. This form of oxygen is also portable and is the type used to get you out of the house. You cannot fill these cylinders yourself. Your oxygen supplier must do it.

Liquid Oxygen - This is more expensive than compressed gas oxygen, so it is possible you may not see it as often. It is stored as a very cold liquid in a “vessel” that is similar to a thermos. When used, the liquid changes to a gas and you breathe it just as you breathe the compressed gas. The vessel takes up much less room that the oxygen cylinders. It also does not rely on electricity so a power outage will cause you no problems. Liquid Oxygen can be transferred to a small vessel by you offering portability.

Oxygen Concentrator - This is a machine that separates the oxygen out of the air, concentrates it, and stores it. This is pretty handy. Used with extra tubing, it allows you to move all around your home. You do need a backup cylinder of oxygen in case of a power failure. Since these units use electricity, check with your local power company to see if they allow a reduced rate because of necessary medical equipment. Also you need to let them know in case there is a power failure so you can get priority service.