Oxygen Therapy: What Does It Help With?

Oxygen Therapy is a straightforward procedure involving the administration of oxygen-enriched air. Its main aim is to better oxygenate the body, which is crucial for protecting cells from oxygen deficiency.

This therapy supports the proper functioning of key organs such as the brain and heart, significantly improving their performance. It is an effective form of treatment used in acute conditions as well as in chronic diseases. Thanks to it, patients experience a significant improvement in quality of life.

Oxygen therapy acts on the body in a multifaceted way, bringing numerous benefits to patients:

• increases the oxygen concentration in the blood, enhancing hemoglobin oxygen saturation,

• improves the functioning of all cells and tissues, effectively protecting them from hypoxia,

• activates fibroblasts, responsible for collagen and elastin production, promoting intensive tissue regeneration,

• stimulates defense cells, thus strengthening the entire immune system,

• boosts serotonin production, providing antidepressant and overall relaxing effects.

Oxygen therapy supports the body by effectively combating numerous conditions. It is particularly helpful in respiratory problems such as:

• COPD,

• asthma,

• cystic fibrosis,

• pneumonia,

• respiratory failure,

• post COVID-19 condition.

Oxygen therapy also has a positive impact on the heart and circulatory system, providing support for:

• heart failure,

• post-heart attack state,

• hypertension,

• atherosclerosis,

• heart issues.

Oxygen therapy also supports the brain and nervous system, assisting with neurological conditions such as:

• post-stroke condition,

• Alzheimer's disease,

• Parkinson's disease,

• multiple sclerosis,

• autism,

• ADHD,

• migraines.

Oxygen accelerates wound healing, even in difficult-to-heal conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers. It aids in the treatment of burns and helps in managing psoriasis.

Oxygen therapy is also used in many other conditions, including:

• Lyme disease,

• obesity,

• diabetes,

• anemia,

• depression,

• rehabilitation after injuries and sports injuries.

Oxygen therapy supports health and improves the body's condition. This method increases physical endurance and mental efficiency, providing energy. Active oxygen offers numerous benefits:

• increases physical endurance,

• enhances mental efficiency,

• supports recovery after physical exertion or injuries,

• accelerates wound healing,

• strengthens the immune system,

• helps eliminate toxins and heavy metals,

• improves sleep quality.

Regular oxygen sessions slow down the aging process and improve skin appearance. They support cognitive functions, including memory and concentration, making them valuable for athletes and mentally demanding professions.

Oxygen therapy is an effective method of preventive healthcare, supporting a long, healthy, and comfortable life while ensuring well-being.

Regular oxygen therapy provides patients with oxygen-enriched air, but hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a more advanced and non-invasive form of oxygen delivery. During the session, the patient breathes almost pure oxygen in a special chamber where there is increased pressure. This allows the oxygen to dissolve in the blood plasma much more effectively, reaching even poorly perfused tissues, which is crucial for the healing process.

HBOT sessions are extremely effective in many cases. They assist in the healing of difficult-to-heal wounds, help combat carbon monoxide poisoning, and support the body in fighting bacterial infections. Furthermore, oxygen hyperbaria stimulates the production of stem cells, significantly accelerating the body's regeneration, especially important after neurological injuries.

There are two main methods of oxygen delivery: passive and active. Their choice depends on the patient's condition and their ability to breathe independently.

Passive oxygen therapy involves the simple inhalation of oxygen by a person breathing on their own. This gas, coming from concentrators or cylinders, is delivered using oxygen masks or nasal cannulas, commonly referred to as nasal prongs. It is crucial to use a humidifier to prevent drying out of the respiratory tract, thus increasing the patient's comfort.

On the other hand, active oxygen therapy is used when a patient is unable to breathe independently and requires mechanical support. An example of this form of therapy is the use of a ventilator, which actively pushes air into the lungs. During the therapy, constant monitoring of the patient's vital signs, such as blood oxygen saturation (using a pulse oximeter) and blood pressure, is crucial.

Oxygen therapy, although highly effective, always requires great caution due to contraindications and potential side effects. An absolute contraindication for its use is untreated pneumothorax. Additionally, it should be avoided in patients taking certain medications, such as bleomycin or doxorubicin, as they can significantly increase the risk of serious complications.

The toxic effects of oxygen usually manifest when it is administered at too high a concentration or for too long. Possible side effects of oxygen therapy include:

• ear pain,

• throat irritation,

• frequent chest pains,

• pulmonary edema,

• damage to the central nervous system,

• retinopathy in premature infants.

Before starting oxygen therapy, strict medical qualification is always necessary. Continuous monitoring by a doctor of the therapy process is also important. Only in this way can the patient's safety be ensured and all risks associated with the therapy effectively minimized.