March is National Women’s History Month, and unfortunately in recent years, part of that history was added on to by the fact that women are now more likely to be diagnosed with COPD than men. COPD, or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is often why many people are prescribed oxygen therapy.
Why are more women than men being diagnosed with COPD and are ultimately prescribed oxygen therapy? There are a few possible answers to this question. A woman is often more likely to go to the doctor than a man. It’s a fact that many cases of COPD go undiagnosed for years before they become so bad that they end up in the hospital, and the disease becomes apparent. A woman is more likely to go to the doctor and describe their ailments, which usually leads to tests and diagnosis.
Even though the numbers are higher in women, women can start doing things to protect themselves, and to stop the progression of their COPD.
Of course, the first thing you need to do is stop smoking. It’s extremely hard to quit smoking and to never start up again, but it can be done. An electronic cigarette that emits a harmless vapor instead of a toxic smoke has been a valuable investment for many women and men alike.
Electronic cigarettes will give you the feeling of having a cigarette, as well as give you the nicotine that you crave. You can give yourself less and less nicotine via the electronic cigarette at your own pace, until you don’t need any at all. You can also try nicotine patches and gum, and use the help of a cigarettes cessation support line.
Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with COPD, you can quit smoking to slow down and even stop the progression of the disease. Many people who have quit smoking after being diagnosed with COPD have seen a subtle decrease in the severity of their symptoms. You will also see a significant increase in your overall health after you’ve quit smoking.
As long as it meets your prescribed oxygen needs, you can use a portable oxygen concentrator so you can also exercise while receiving oxygen therapy. Many people who need oxygen therapy need it especially if they are going to work out. As long as you have the OK from your doctor, you should get some exercise to keep your muscles and bones strong, as well as your heart and lungs.
Women’s bones deteriorate quicker than men’s, so you should do exercises on a regular basis that will keep them strong longer. Getting extra oxygen while you exercise is extremely important, not only for your lungs but for every part of your body. More oxygen getting to your bones will make them stronger in the long run.
Information on this page is for reference and educational purposes only. For more information about COPD, talk to your doctor or primary care provider.
Scott joined American Medical Sales and Rentals in 2008 as a Web Manager and Content Writer. He is a writer and designer. He is extensively trained on oxygen therapy products from leading manufacturers such as Inogen, Respironics, Chart, Invacare, ResMed and more.
Scott works closely with respiratory therapists and oxygen specialists to educate the community about oxygen therapy products, COPD, asthma and lung diseases. He writes weekly columns and is passionate about educating the community on oxygen therapy and respiratory issues.
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
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Scott Ridlhttps://www.oxygenconcentratorstore.com/blog/author/scott/
Does oxygen therapy help someone with allergies? For example, my sister is extremely extremely sensitive to smells so she never comes to any of our our family get together’s even if their outdoor because if somebody has shampoo or under arm, deodorant, perfume or anything on, it just causes her to have breathing issues. Would an oxygen machine help that
Oxygen therapy is primarily used to treat medical conditions related to low blood oxygen levels. While it can provide relief for some respiratory symptoms, it may not directly address or alleviate allergy-related symptoms caused by sensitivity to smells or irritants.
If your sister’s sensitivity to smells is causing significant breathing issues, it would be best for her to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an allergist or pulmonologist. They can evaluate her specific condition, identify the triggers, and provide appropriate advice and treatment options to manage her allergies and associated symptoms effectively.