What is the Difference between Pulse-Dose and Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators for Sleep?
When it comes to managing oxygen therapy, there are two common differences between oxygen concentrators available: pulse-dose and continuous flow. Both options have their unique advantages and cater to different needs. In this blog, Oxygen Parts Inc. delves into the key differences between pulse-dose and continuous flow oxygen concentrators, helping you make an informed decision about the one that best suits your sleep or active oxygen therapy requirements.
How Pulse-Dose Oxygen Concentrators Work
Pulse-dose oxygen concentrators deliver medical oxygen in measurements called a bolus, which are the volume you inhale when you’re breathing. This enables the machine to be small enough to be portable and provide long battery durations. These are recommended for the oxygen user for when they’re active. Most manufacturers do not recommend these for sleep, do to the fact that 60% +or- of the population are mouth breathers while sleeping. Another important fact is we all have erratic sleeping patterns that may interrupt the pulse dose while unconscious. All though there has been some studies that it shows it working efficiently during sleep, most manufacturers, therapist and doctors recommend continuous flow oxygen while sleeping.
The Benefits of Pulse-Dose Oxygen Concentrators
Pulse-dose oxygen concentrators offer numerous advantages for therapy. First and foremost, they are generally smaller and lighter compared to continuous flow concentrators. Making them ideal for use during travel, ensuring your oxygen supply is available while on the go. We recommend the OxyGo Next or OxyGo Fit models for being active.
Pulse dose medical oxygen is measured in bolus which is milliliters per minute or ml/mn.
Continuous flow medical oxygen is measured in liters per minute or LPM.
These are different measurements, one being measured on a constant flow and the pulse dose being a demand measurement.
Understanding Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators
Continuous flow oxygen concentrators provide a constant flow of oxygen, regardless of inhalation. These devices are suitable for individuals who require a consistent level of oxygen throughout the night, especially those with severe respiratory conditions. Stationary continuous flow concentrators typically are paired with POC’s (small pulse dose) or portable oxygen concentrators. There are also continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators, these units are dollied with a built-in hand cart, weigh approximately 18 LBS. These models will produce a continuous flow up to 3 LPM and pulse dose up to a setting of 9. We recommend the Caire Eclipse 5.
The Advantages of Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators for Sleep
Continuous flow oxygen concentrators provide a constant oxygen supply, ensuring optimum oxygen saturation during sleep. The OxyHome is the continuous flow oxygen concentrator we recommend for a continuous flow stationary. It provides the quietest operation, least amount of heat output and has a digital read out of the oxygen percentage.
It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider and consider your requirements to make an informed decision that enables restful sleep and optimal therapeutic oxygen delivery. Contact Oxygen Parts Inc. today for more information on oxygen concentrators!
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