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If you or a loved one has recently been prescribed oxygen therapy for a medical condition, you'll likely have a lot of questions. To start, what exactly is an oxygen concentrator portable, along with how and why they function? You're likely to be interested in pricing issues, in addition to how to consider purchasing one of these machines. Luckily, your friends at The Senior List are here to keep you informed on everything related to portable oxygen concentrators as well as their costs. Did you know you can opt to rent rather than buy the oxygen unit? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages that's why we'll jump in and take a closer look. Who Is Prescribed Portable Oxygen? Portable oxygen is recommended to those who are struggling with low blood oxygen levels. It could be due to the condition, such as COPD and asthma. Or it may be as a result of an infection following surgery or illness. In order to get a portable oxygen concentrator, you will need the prescription. The reason for this is that it takes a qualified physician to determine the need for oxygen , and then determine the amount you will require. The figure is calculated in liters of per minute. Oxygen in its entirety is a medical substance, and one should never use it without expert guidance from your doctor. What Is A Portable Oxygen Concentrator? One can use a portable oxygen concentrateor as a piece of apparatus that's small enough that you can carry with you while you go about the day-to-day routine. Comparatively to large oxygen tanks or stationary concentrators like today's, portable oxygen machines are light enough to take from room from room to room, outdoors or even on an aircraft. A portable concentrator draws into the air and raises the oxygen saturation of that air. It does this by passing the air through an inlet filter through a compressor and then through a sieve bed. This process removes atmospheric nitrogen and leaves it with a higher oxygen level of up to 95 percent. The concentrator's portable is hooked to a tube while oxygen is supplied through a nasal tube or wearing a mask. The result is a boost on blood oxygen levels and thus lessening the symptoms caused by asthma, COPD, and other breathing issues. Buying a Portable Oxygen Concentrator As we mentioned earlier, the first step to purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator is to receive your prescription. It will inform you of how much oxygen you need (measured in LPM) and the method of oxygen administration. Two methods through which a concentrator is able to deliver oxygen. "Pulse" Dose Method of delivery detects the moment you breathe and then pumps oxygen out in the same manner. Continuous Flow as the name implies continuous flow is a constantand steady flow of oxygen towards the individual. You can anticipate to pay around $2500 for an adequate concentrator. However, there are some that have a price of around $2000. Some of the more advanced ones around $3500. Inogen portable oxygen concentrators, for example, start at $2,295. Most times, Medicare will cover the price of your portable oxygen concentrator, based on where you make your purchase. For people with low blood oxygen levels A portable oxygen concentrator is able to provide a significant benefit and is a vital device. Cost can be an issue this is why we'll look a examination of the other option, which is renting. Renting a Portable Oxygen Concentrator If you're worried about the upfront cost of purchasing an oxygen concentrator that is portable, renting is one way to make the purchase more affordable. The fees vary from one supplier to the next but generally speaking, you'll have to pay $35 per day and $250 per week to rent the portable oxygen concentrator. The cost will vary depending on the particular model and manufacturer therefore, make sure you check with various suppliers. What to Consider When Purchasing a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Before you decide to rent or buy a concentrator for your home, there are some points we'd recommend looking into. It is important to ensure that you are sure of how much LPM (liters per minute) that you need so you'll know that your selected concentrator can meet this. This information is provided on your prescription form for portable oxygen. http://www.lawrence.com/users/catsuppajama3/ 'll also want to discuss on your doctor's advice about when you'll require oxygen. Some people require it on a regular basis and others require it only while they sleep early in the morning, during exercise as well as when walking. Finally, be sure to clarify whether you require the continuous flow of a pulse or a continuous flow and what your prescription will be able to explain. The former is only released oxygen when you breathe. While the latter is continuously supplied. Make sure to take note of this if you need to use it at the same with a BiPAP machine, you will need a continuous flow unit. While you are also clear about the oxygen therapy you require Be sure to double-check these things: What kind of batteries the unit uses and how often you'll have to recharge or replace them. Some units use rechargeable batteries. Inogen's most current units include, for instance, double battery systems that are able to supply power to your concentrator up to a maximum of 13 hours. Whether there's a warranty and how long it's valid. It is important to know if the unit is FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) cleared if you're planning to fly with it. Most units will pass this test, but what you don't want was to run into trouble while at airport. What kind of cleaning or maintenance requirements do the unit need. Most portable concentrators require the occasional external wipedown, along with swabbing your air intakes. You should consider the volume level when you're conscious of noise, in particular if you plan to use your concentrator when you're sleeping. Often, portable devices have similar volumes to calm indoor chat, so they'll be quiet whenever you take them to places like restaurants or stores. The weight, size and measurements of the device. Most portable concentrators come in around 5lbs. This makes them easy to transport almost anywhere, but you'll want to ensure you're content with the dimensions and weight. Which accessories are included, like spare batteries, cannulas, or even a case. If they're not part of the package and you'll have to pay for the items on your own, so make sure to factor that in when estimating the cost of renting or buying the item. Pros and Cons of Renting and Buying A Portable Oxygen Concentrator Pros The up-front costs will be lower. You'll be able to make more flexible decisions with the return of your concentrator. Many businesses offer the option to extend your rental contract. Some insurance companies will pay for rent, but not purchase of a portable oxygen concentrator. Several suppliers offer extras for maintenance or saving on spare batteries, as part of an arrangement to rent. For patients with temporary oxygen needs it is possible to save money. Often suppliers will offer ongoing maintenance for your concentrator , as part of your rental contract. Cons Costs are likely to rise over the long run. It could be stressful for some people to remember to pay every week. It's your responsibility to send everything back after you've finished using your concentrator.