With thousands of new COVID-19 cases emerging every day, it’s imperative that we not only do our part to stay safe, but also utilize the right tools if we do get sick. If you think that you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, please see a doctor as soon as possible and get the COVID-19 test. This is especially important if you have a condition like COPD or any other kind of chronic disease, as this may increase the severity of any coronavirus infection. Depending on your unique condition, your risk factors, and your symptoms, you may or may not require hospitalization, but only a qualified physician can make that decision.
Because the COVID-19 virus is a respiratory disease, having a high-quality portable oxygen concentrator can make a significant difference in your recovery, if you are confirmed to have it. Common symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue, which may spell trouble for anyone with COPD. While having COPD may not increase your risk of contracting the coronavirus, it will likely increase the severity of your symptoms and risks for complications. The right portable oxygen concentrator unit is an essential device for managing COPD symptoms, but also can be helpful in your recovery from COVID-19.
If you already struggle with low oxygen levels, coughing/wheezing, fatigue, or shortness of breath, then becoming infected with the coronavirus can be life-threatening. Concentrated oxygen therapy is one of the many tools that doctors are using to improve recovery outcomes for high-risk patients. Your physician may recommend a portable oxygen concentrator for you to use while recovering from COVID-19, and it’s vital that you follow these orders. Thankfully, there are many great concentrator units online that are lightweight, easy to use, and provide a therapeutic dose of oxygen, no matter where you go.
For patients who have COPD, it’s important to take extra precaution to avoid contracting the coronavirus:
- Stay at home
- Avoid contact with sick people
- Wash your hands and sterilize your oxygen equipment as often as possible
- If you must leave the house, wear a mask, bring your oxygen concentrator with you, and practice social distancing
- Avoid touching your face
- Increase your self-care: more sleep, healthy meals, and fresh air/exercise as tolerated
Have questions about choosing the right portable oxygen concentrator for your COVID-19 recovery? Reach out to one of our specialists today.