COPD & Emphysema Support Group

COPD is a progressive disease characterized by airflow obstruction or limitation. Emphysema is characterized by loss of elasticity of the lung tissue, destruction of structures supporting the alveoli and of capillaries feeding the alveoli. Both have symptoms that include shortness of breath, among other respiratory troubles. If you are a COPD or Emphysema sufferer, join...

936 Members

10,879 Posts

0 Online

mikkar 12/05/2013

Ok folks ~ what is your opinion on this topic? I have the portable air tanks and they are heavy and awkward. I am considering getting the portable concentrator, but not sure. That is why I would like to hear what you have to say on the subject. Looking forward to each of your opinions. Thank you, Karen

mikkar 12/11/2013

At this point I think I will just stick with the portable air tanks. Thank you everybody for all your input. Made for an interesting topic.

With the holidays fast approaching I'd like to wish you all a
VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS.......

Karen

deleted_user 12/11/2013

I used a POC for a couple of years. Loved the freedom and portability. The problems started when my O2 demand exceeded the POC's ability to give me O2. Finally had to give it up (about the same time I gave up work). If you have an earlier stage of emphy or COPD you can probably use it for a couple of years...

Hugs,
Dennis

deleted_user 12/14/2013

Hi Karen!

This concentrator weights less than 2 lbs, it's the size of a coffee mug, it plugs into the wall or car lighter, the battery will last for 3.5 hours and it's airline approved.

It's also expensive (around $4K) so insurers probably won't pay for it. Bummer! I'm going to get one even though O2 isn't part of my therapy. I just want the mental security of having it in my purse or in the car while traveling because I have been a mental case since being diagnosed 10 days ago.

http://www.healthoxygen.com/airsep-focus-miniature-portable-oxygen-concentrator.html

gro100 12/14/2013

Bunkey: Before purchasing this concentrator you should consider know what your needs are and what it will be used for.

Also with an investment this large you should also consider what your needs might be in the future.

The unit that the link describes has a very low flow rate at a pulse dose. Even if the flow rate is high enough, you probably couldn't use it for sleep.

There are many more POC's available, most of them cheaper. You should discuss your needs with your doctor, and determine what you will use it for before making a decision.

I hope this helps a little, Gary

MDlady 12/15/2013

Very good question and comments/info. Does anyone know if medicare will pay for the purchase of a portable O2 concentrator?
Thanks,
Jean

deleted_user 12/15/2013

Good advice, Gro!

O2 is not part of my therapy, but as you reminded us, that can change.

mikkar 12/15/2013

NewBunky - I have issues too when it comes to traveling too far from home, I know it is all in my head and I have been working on it. Used to dread the hour trip to the doctors (Lorazepam works wonders). This summer I pushed myself to go somewhere I used to go to all the time...2 hours away and lo' and behold - I found out it wouldn't kill me! LOL

I would love to make a trip to Vegas one more time, but of course, I have concerns about that. Last time I was at my Pulmo's I asked him if it was okay for me to fly - and he said I could, no problem.
That would take a whole heck of a lot of Lorazepam!!!

Join the Conversation