Hypoxia is a condition that prevents enough oxygen from getting into the bloodstream. Physicians often prescribe home oxygen therapy as a means of reducing shortness of breath, protecting the heart and increasing survival. Regular oxygen levels in the air level off at approximately 21 percent. Home oxygen used for therapy is nearly 100 percent pure oxygen, and may cause medical side effects--skin irritation, respiratory infections and lung damage, among others--that need to be monitored.
Skin Irritation
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute reports that home oxygen therapy can cause various types of skin irritation due to ill-fitting and uncomfortable nasal cannula, or face masks that come with the oxygen equipment. Home equipment providers generally stock alternative devices to offer a better fit and better suit the needs of the patient. Over-the-counter gels designed to decrease skin irritation are also available.
Additionally, oxygen use may cause a dry or bloody nose.
Respiratory Infection
Less common side effects of home oxygen use include respiratory infections. Devices like those used to supply oxygen to the patient support the growth of microorganisms and may cause direct infection when oxygen equipment becomes contaminated. Since those prescribed oxygen therapy are often immunocompromised, the risk of developing respiratory infections increases with the presence of these microorganisms. Mortality and morbidity from respiratory infections can be avoided by thoroughly cleaning home oxygen equipment.
Lung Damage
The oxygen level used in home therapy needs careful monitoring to avoid lung damage. This side effect can cause severe health problems. Vanderbilt University Medical Center scientists report that high oxygen concentrations may produce free radicals that lead to hyperoxia-induced lung injury. The report also finds evidence that prolonged oxygen use may trip the trigger for programmed cell death.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Home Oxygen Therapy
- National Heart Lung and Blood Institute: Oxygen therapy hazards
- "Home Healthcare Nurse"; Preventing Infections in Patients Using Respiratory Therapy Equipment in the Home; McGoldrick, Mary M.S., R.N., CRNI; April 2010
- ScienceBlog: Oxygen bars may be harmful to your health
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