Oxygen therapy makes oxygen more readily available to your body by introducing it and other substances into your nose, mouth or through a tracheotomy hole in your throat. According to the American Cancer Society, oxygen therapy introduces substances into the body that release oxygen. This increases the body's ability to destroy cells that cause disease. The two most common substances used in oxygen therapy are hydrogen peroxide and ozone. Delivery of oxygen to your nose is the preferred route so you breathe well while talking or eating and wearing a nasal cannula is preferable to a tracheotomy.
Therapy
Medical professionals consider oxygen therapy a medicine, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute; therefore, your doctor needs to write a prescription for oxygen therapy. She will prescribe the amount and frequency of treatments and help you decide whether a nasal cannula or mask is better for your particular condition. She will examine your nose for any obstructions that may prevent effective treatment.
Nasal Cannulas
Metal cylinders or other types of tanks contain oxygen and other substances used for therapy. The gas then travels down plastic tubing to the patient's nose, mouth or tracheotomy hole. A nasal cannula is specially designed with two small pieces of plastic that stick into your nostrils. The nasal cannula has soft, hollow tubing that allows the oxygen to flow through it. The tubing goes from your nose, over each ear like a pair of glasses before joining the main tubing just under your chin. This system allows continuous oxygen delivery without having to remove the apparatus to talk or eat.
Masks
Oxygen masks cover your entire nose and mouth. Medical professionals usually reserve masks for very ill patients, those unable to wear a cannula or for night therapy. CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, delivers oxygen to reduce the occurrence and severity of sleep apnea. Masks allow you to breathe out of your nose or mouth, helpful for a person that cannot breathe through her nose due to congestion or injury.
Complications
One of the most common complications for nasal delivery of oxygen therapy is a dry or bloody nose. Oxygen therapy at night may cause morning headaches. Forced air dries out mucus membranes lining your nasal cavity. A special humidifier adds moisture to the oxygen, reducing dryness. Manufacturers are introducing products to relieve dry nasal membranes, such as nasal sprays.
Nasal delivery of oxygen therapy does reduce your ability to smell. The gush of oxygen and other substances in the tank prevent smell-laden environmental air to enter your nose, so you don't smell things like food or fire. Smell is vital to taste, so you may wish to schedule oxygen therapy sessions so they do not interfere with meals.
