Things you need to know about Oxygen Tanks

You may have seen an old grandmother or grandfather with a small tube in their nose, dragging a small tank on wheels. Or you may have seen a large cylinder next to a hospital bed. This is what we call an oxygen tank. For someone who has difficulty breathing and has a lung condition, this can be a part of life. Seeing this may have caused you a lot of questions. So, today we will talk about these oxygen tanks, that is, oxygen therapy, in a very simple way that you can understand.

Simply put, what are these oxygen tanks?

Oxygen tanks are large metal cylinders that store oxygen gas under high pressure. They are used to provide the oxygen needed for the body to function when our body is not getting the right amount of oxygen, such as when there is difficulty breathing due to some problem with the lungs.

These tanks can contain oxygen in either a gas or liquid form. They come in different sizes. Some are large and difficult to carry around. They are usually used in a hospital or at home, and are kept in one place. Others are small, so you can take them with you when you go out or travel.

There are two main ways to get oxygen from this tank:

• Oxygen Mask: A plastic mask that fits over both your nose and mouth.
• Nasal Cannula: A plastic tube with two small tips that is inserted into each nostril.

What are the main types of oxygen delivery systems?

There are three main ways to administer oxygen. It is very important for you to be aware of these.

What conditions require oxygen therapy?

If you have any of the following conditions, your doctor may recommend oxygen therapy:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) - This is a long-term disease that affects the lungs.
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Emphysema
• Heart Failure
• Lung Cancer
• Pneumonia
• Injuries to the respiratory system (e.g., broken ribs, collapsed lungs)
• Sleep apnea

How to use an oxygen tank correctly?

Although using an oxygen tank may seem a little strange at first, it's a very simple process. Your doctor or healthcare provider will explain it to you in detail. Here are the general steps to follow.

1. Secure the tank: Your tank will come with a special trolley or stand. Always secure the tank inside it so it doesn't fall.

2. Check the regulator: Look at the regulator on the top of the tank. If the needle is in the green section, it means the tank is full. As you use it, the needle will gradually move to the red section. When it reaches the red section, it means the tank is empty.

3. Adjust the oxygen level: This is the most important thing. Only adjust the oxygen level to the level your doctor has prescribed for you by turning the knob on the meter. Never change this level at will.

4. Turn the tank on: There is a small wrench on the top of the tank to open and close the valve. Turn it to the left to open the valve, and turn it to the right to close it.

5. Check for oxygen: Place your hand or ear near the hole on the side of the meter to see if oxygen is coming out.

6. Attach the tube or mask: Attach your nasal cannula or oxygen mask to the hole. Place the tubes behind your ears, like you would put on a pair of glasses, and arrange them so that they go under your chin or behind your head.

7. Close when not in use: Keep the valve closed whenever you are not using oxygen.

Cleanliness is very important!

To avoid infections, you need to keep the equipment you use clean.

• Wash your plastic pipes thoroughly with soap at least once a week .
• Replace the nasal cannula or mask with a new one at least once a month .
• If you get an illness like a cold, be sure to use a new cannula or mask after you recover.

Extremely important: Be careful when using oxygen tanks!

This is the part you need to pay the most attention to. Oxygen is not a flammable gas. However, oxygen helps a fire burn better, faster, and hotter (it helps burn). So even a small spark can cause a big explosion.

Other important safety tips:

• Smoking is strictly prohibited: It is a good idea to display "No Smoking" signs in your home. No one should smoke in a place where there is an oxygen tank.
• Be careful with electrical appliances: Appliances like hair dryers, electric razors, and space heaters can cause sparks. Do not use them near an oxygen tank.
• Don't let the tank fall: These tanks are heavy. If you drop them, you could get hurt. Also, if the tank is damaged and the valve breaks, the gas can escape under high pressure and send the tank flying like a rocket across the room. So always keep it safe.

When do you need to see a doctor?

If you experience increased difficulty breathing or develop any of the following symptoms while using oxygen, see your doctor immediately.

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting

Additionally, if you think your oxygen tank or meter is not working properly, notify your healthcare provider immediately.

Do I need a prescription? Can I buy it at the store?

Yes, absolutely. Oxygen is a medicine. Therefore, to buy or refill an oxygen tank, you definitely need a prescription from a doctor. You cannot buy oxygen tanks at a pharmacy or any other store.

At first, living with an oxygen tank may seem a bit uncomfortable. The tube in your nose and the tank you have to carry around may seem like a nuisance. But once you get used to it, you will be able to carry out most of your normal activities without any problems. If you have any questions or uncertainties about this, talk to your doctor openly about it. He or she will give you all the advice you need to get used to this new lifestyle.