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What is Ambulatory Oxygen?
Ambulatory oxygen is a portable treatment to be used on exertion, for example, when walking or carrying out any physical activity. The Oxygen is usually supplied in cylinders which can either be carried in a back pack or wheeled on a trolley. The Oxygen is normally delivered through nasal cannulae (long flexible plastic tubes that fit into your nostrils). We will discuss the best oxygen equipment options for you at your appointment once it is clear that ambulatory oxygen is beneficial to you. Not everybody that is referred for an assessment will benefit from oxygen.
Why have I been referred?
Your GP, Consultant or other health professional is concerned that when you walk or exercise the level of oxygen in your blood falls. This means that your organs may not be getting the oxygen they need to stay healthy and it can also limit your physical activity.
People with lung problems need to work much harder to obtain the oxygen their body requires. In some patients the oxygen level in the blood is normal when resting but may fall significantly on movement. For some people, using supplementary oxygen during movement and exertion can improve the ability to perform activities, keep organs healthy and may even reduce breathlessness. However, not everyone will benefit from supplementary oxygen, which is why it is important to assess this in clinic.
When should I use it?
We will advise you at your appointment when it is appropriate to use ambulatory oxygen.
Ambulatory oxygen should only be used on exertion and recovery and not at rest.
What should I bring?
You should wear comfortable shoes and clothing as the appointment does involve walking tests.
Bring with you any medications you may need if exerting yourself i.e. salbutamol inhaler or GTN spray.
Any walking aids that you use.
What to expect from the first appointment
A member of the Respiratory team will see you at a venue which is easy to access and large enough to perform a walking test.
They will ask you some questions to get a background of your condition and your current level of activity. They will also ask you to perform some walking tests without oxygen and, if appropriate, with oxygen.
The walking tests to look at your oxygen need will be completed over two separate appointments as not everything can be done in one session.
If you are eligible for ambulatory oxygen, the equipment will be ordered on the day of your assessment and be delivered to your home in 3-5 working days. The equipment ordered would have been discussed with you at your clinic appointment.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Respiratory medicine service.
About this information
Service:
Respiratory medicine
Reference:
W/023
Approval date:
25 November 2024
Review date:
1 November 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.