Q:  What is oxygen?
A:  Oxygen is a colorless, tasteless, odorless gas that is necessary for life.  When we take a breath, we draw air containing 21% oxygen into our lungs.  The oxygen passes from our lungs into our bloodstream, where it is carried in the red blood cells to all the organs and tissues of our bodies.  Oxygen is needed by our organs and tissues to convert the food we eat into hear and energy, to maintain life.
 
Q:  Is oxygen flammable?  
A:  No, but if used incorrectly it will support something that is burning and oxygen will make that item burn more easily and rapidly in an oxygen-rich environment.  We advise not using oxygen near an open flame, burning cigarette or electrical equipment that sparks during operation.  
 
Q:  Can I use oxygen while I am smoking?
A:  Absolutely not, we advise that do not smoke while on your oxygen.  
 
Q:  Can I use my oxygen around smokers?
A:  You can use your oxygen around smokers but we advise that they do not get within 5 feet of the equipment or the person using oxygen.
 
Q:  Do you have to refill my oxygen machine?
A:  No, the oxygen concentrator supports itself.  Room air is pumped through a fine filter that traps all but the oxygen, which is allowed to pass through.  
 
Q:  Who is paying for this?
A:   Medicare covers oxygen at 80% and if you have a secondary insurance to Medicare they will most likely pick up the 20% remaining.  Many private insurances also pay for oxygen within the limits of their policies.  To be sure your policy does cover home oxygen, call you claims representative.
 
Q:  Can I become addicted to oxygen?
A:  Oxygen is not addicting.  We all need oxygen to live.  If your lungs and/or heart are diseased and cannot supply enough oxygen to your body from normal room air, you need to breathe supplemental oxygen.  Should your condition improve, you may no longer require supplemental oxygen.
 
Q:  How long will I be on oxygen therapy?
A:  Your physician determines the length of need for your oxygen equipment.  At any point you can request from your physician to be retested off your current oxygen therapy to determine if your oxygen has improved.  If so, he can write an order to discontinue the oxygen therapy.