Oxygen Therapy Question

Will I become addicted if I use home oxygen therapy?

Oxygen is not addictive. In fact, home oxygen therapy can help improve the length and quality of life for a person with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Using oxygen at home can help decrease shortness of breath and improve sleep. It can make physical and mental activity easier, which can help you do more. Oxygen therapy can also reduce hospitalizations.

Home oxygen therapy comes in several forms, including a compressed gas cylinder (oxygen tank), liquid oxygen or a machine called an oxygen concentrator. You may also use a portable oxygen system, which you can take with you so that you can be more active. You normally receive the oxygen using nasal tubes.

Oxygen can be harmful at certain doses, so you can get it only with a doctor’s prescription. Keep tanks away from the following: electrical equipment, combustible materials, lit cigarettes, cigars or pipes, open flames; sparks, or petroleum-based products.