Therapy
Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy gives extra oxygen to breathe when the level in the blood is too low, through masks, nasal tubes or other devices.
Quick answer
Oxygen Therapy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Oxygen therapy provides air with a higher concentration of oxygen than normal, delivered through a mask or small tubes in the nose (nasal cannulae), to raise low blood oxygen levels.
- Why it is done: It is used for conditions that lower blood oxygen, such as severe chest infections, COPD flare-ups, heart failure, and other acute illnesses, and long term at home for some chronic lung and heart conditions.
- What happens: Oxygen flows from a cylinder, wall supply or concentrator through tubing to a mask or nasal cannulae.
What it is
Oxygen therapy provides air with a higher concentration of oxygen than normal, delivered through a mask or small tubes in the nose (nasal cannulae), to raise low blood oxygen levels.
Why it is done
It is used for conditions that lower blood oxygen, such as severe chest infections, COPD flare-ups, heart failure, and other acute illnesses, and long term at home for some chronic lung and heart conditions.
What happens
Oxygen flows from a cylinder, wall supply or concentrator through tubing to a mask or nasal cannulae. The amount is adjusted to keep oxygen levels in a safe target range, monitored with a finger probe or blood tests.
Recovery
For acute illness, oxygen is reduced and stopped as the person recovers. Home oxygen for chronic conditions is set up with careful assessment, safety advice and follow-up.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Too much oxygen can be harmful in certain conditions, so levels are targeted carefully. Oxygen supports the body while the cause is treated but does not cure the underlying illness. Fire safety is important, as oxygen aids burning.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Oxygen Therapy: frequently asked questions
Can you have too much oxygen?
Yes. In some conditions, particularly certain lung diseases, too much oxygen can be harmful, so levels are targeted to a safe range and monitored rather than simply set high.
Is home oxygen safe with cooking or smoking?
Oxygen makes things burn more easily, so it must be kept away from flames, cigarettes and heat sources. You will be given clear fire-safety advice if you use oxygen at home.
Related
Other therapy
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
Building patient-education content for procedures?
We create clear, accurate, referenced medical explainers and decision aids for teams and learners.