Did you know that each year hundreds of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Many of these individuals and others who suffer from various lung diseases will be required to receive oxygen therapy. Numerous studies have determined that adults with chronic lung disorders who receive oxygen therapy not only live longer, they also have an improved quality of life.

Lack of adequate oxygen, often referred to as oxygen deficiency, can lead to a number of serious health problems. Untreated oxygen deficiency can reduce lung function to the extent that long-term oxygen therapy is required to continue normal bodily function. Oxygen deficiency has been linked to every major illness category including heart disease, respiratory disease and cancer. All heart attacks are brought about by the failure of the heart muscle's inability to receive adequate supplies of oxygen. Inadequate oxygen levels in the body weakens the immune system which can lead to viral infections, damaged cells, inflamed joints and circulatory problems.

Warning Signs of Possible Oxygen Deficiency:

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Depression

• Memory loss

• Circulation problems

• Irritability

• Irrational behavior

• Poor digestion

• Muscle aches and pains

If you are experiencing some or all of these symptoms, you should see your physician immediately. A doctor's prescription is required to receive oxygen therapy. If oxygen therapy is prescribed, you will discover a number of substantial health benefits. Besides reducing the amount of strain on the heart that can lead to heart failure, receiving oxygen allows the bodies other major organs to function properly. Oxygen therapy reduces sleep disruption caused by inadequate oxygen, increasing energy levels and giving you an overall feeling of well being.

Additional Oxygen Therapy Benefits:

• Provides headache relief

• Increases mental clarity

• Decreases shortness of breath

• Allows for increased physical activity

• Relieves nausea

There are 3 methods for receiving oxygen therapy: compressed oxygen cylinders, liquid oxygen cylinders and oxygen concentrators. Many oxygen therapy patients are discovering that today's vastly improved portable oxygen concentrators are the way to go. Not only do portable oxygen concentrators provide increased mobility, they are also energy efficient and easy to maintain. There is no refilling or deliveries to schedule with oxygen concentrators. If your doctor has prescribed oxygen therapy, let innovative portable oxygen concentrators like the SeQual Eclipse and Inogen One allow you to lead a full and active life.