Oxygen Dependence In Swimming

Oxygen, an essential part of our planet's water and atmosphere, is vital to nearly all of your body's regular processes. Although this indicates that we are all dependent on oxygen, the label "oxygen-dependent" applies solely to people who require the use of oxygen tanks due to a medical condition. Whether you require the use of an oxygen tank full-time or part-time, swimming is possible while oxygen-dependent.

Developing Oxygen Dependence

Using oxygen tanks while scuba diving, for example, is similar to the use of supplemental oxygen by people with medical conditions that restrict their breathing. As people who use supplemental oxygen for medical reasons are labeled "oxygen dependent," you may be worried about becoming dependent on supplemental oxygen if you use it in swimming. Regardless of how much such patients use oxygen, however, this label is a misnomer, as the body cannot develop a dependence on oxygen.

COPD

Otherwise known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD is a common lung disease that restricts your ability to breathe. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two main forms of this disease, both of which are mainly caused by smoking. For patients with COPD, the use of supplemental oxygen can greatly increase stamina. For COPD patients who wish to swim for exercise while using supplemental oxygen, Dr. Tom Petty of Your Lung Health recommends securing the oxygen tank poolside, wearing an oxygen mask and using a tube that is long enough to cover the distance of a lap or lane.

Towing Your Tank

Finding a stable place for your oxygen tank and a tube long enough for a swim can be difficult. As such, finding a way to tow your supplemental oxygen while you swim may be a better option that is more adaptable to different circumstances. As reported by the BBC's Jane Elliott in September 2006, Faye Goodwin is a cystic fibrosis patient with a unique solution to this problem. As this condition gradually reduces your lung capacity over time, and as you need to be in good physical condition to receive a potentially necessary lung transplant, Goodwin swims for exercise while towing her tank behind her. As the tank needs to be kept dry, Goodwin secures it in an inflatable dinghy that floats behind her while she swims.

Oxygen Swimming Pack

If you are physically unable to tow your oxygen tank, are using a public pool with limited space or simply do not want the additional burden of an inflatable dinghy, there are some options. For example, you may be able to use a waterproof backpack containing either liquid oxygen or a small oxygen tank. As noted in the May/June 2008 issue of "The Pulmonary Paper," LifeBack Oxygen Carriers, a company started by COPD patient Holly Lockwood, manufacturers such supplemental oxygen carriers. As such carriers may not be sufficient for your oxygen needs, you should consult your doctor before swimming with supplemental oxygen.