Supplemental oxygen helps you live life to the fullest — and summertime is no exception! As the days get warmer, follow these summer safety and health tips for using oxygen therapy.
Use the best portable oxygen for your activity
As a pulmonary nurse practitioner, I can tell you that oxygen therapy systems aren’t one size fits all. Know your options so you can use the best one for your plans:
- Compressed gas. A large metal cylinder filled with oxygen gas. You’ll always need extra cylinders on hand so you don’t run out of oxygen.
- Oxygen concentrator. This device pulls in outside air, then compresses oxygen and removes nitrogen. It’s the easiest system for travel, because you’ll never run out of oxygen. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has even approved some models for use on airplanes.
If you’re socializing at home, compressed gas might work well. But if you’re planning a more active summer, talk to your care team at the Temple Lung Center. We can help you find the system that’s right for you.
Protect your oxygen from high temperatures
Know the recommended temperatures for your oxygen system. For most systems, that’s:
- Safe operation: up to 104 degrees F
- Safe storage: up to 158 degrees F
- Ideal usage: 60 to 70 degrees F
When you’re outdoors this summer, find shade under a tree or umbrella. Also, check for indications that the system is overheating:
- Increased noise or vibration
- Frequent alarms or error messages
- Unusual heat coming from the device
- Automatic shutoff
If you notice any of these signs, turn the unit off and unplug it. Let it cool down for at least 30 minutes before attempting to use it again.
Make traveling with oxygen a breeze
You can maintain oxygen therapy during summer vacations. If you’re flying, this calls for a little research before your trip. Check with your airline about portable oxygen concentrators. Most airlines maintain a list of which systems they allow. Your care provider will also need to complete paperwork ahead of time that tells the airline how and when you should use oxygen.
Make sure you pack enough batteries. The FAA requires you to have battery life equal to 150% of your expected travel time. Consider travel time to and from the airport as well as layovers.
If you’re traveling by car, batteries are still important. But the 12-volt DC outlet charger in some vehicles can charge your portable oxygen concentrator.
No matter your mode of transport, remember to take breaks. Let yourself stop and breathe. You’ll feel better and enjoy the journey more.
Take your oxygen to the beach or pool
Pack an extra-long oxygen cannula when you hit the water this summer. This will allow you to keep your oxygen tank under an umbrella, out of direct sunlight, while you take a dip.
And because nothing can ruin a day like sand up your nose, pack an extra cannula or two as well. No matter how careful you are, it’s easy to get sand into nasal prongs.
Remember to stay hydrated and use lots of sunscreen. Also, make sure people know you’re using oxygen. That way, they can watch for your cannula and avoid smoking nearby.
Enjoy cookouts, campfires, and fireworks with supplemental oxygen
Be the life of the party—just keep your supplemental oxygen out of the sun. You’re welcome at the campfire, but your oxygen should be turned off and stowed 8 feet away from the flames. If you need to use oxygen, let others tend to the grill or light fireworks. You can sit back and enjoy the burgers and the show from a safe distance of at least 15 feet.
Stay connected with Temple Lung Center
Keep in touch with your Temple Lung care team. We are here to support you in all of your summer adventures. That includes helping you find the best portable oxygen solutions and preparing documentation necessary for flying with oxygen.
You can always make an appointment by calling 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or requesting an appointment online.
Helpful Resources
Looking for more information?