COVID-19 Oxygen Crisis: Do you know the difference between oxygen concentrator and oxygen cylinder? Find out here

While a continuous flow oxygen concentrator delivers the same amount of oxygen per minute before it is switched off, a pulse dose oxygen concentrator recognises the patient's breathing pattern and releases oxygen when it senses inhalation, according to Dr. Tushar Tayal of CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon.

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While the COVID-19 outbreak occurred a year ago, the country is currently in the worst period, which corresponds to the second wave. The second wave has hit India like a hurricane, with over 4 lakh cases recorded daily in the last few days. “While over 1.36 crore people have recovered, over 24 lakh people are still suffering, with some receiving care in hospitals and others being put in home isolation,” said Dr Tushar Tayal of the CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon.


Because of an increase in the number of extreme COVID-19 cases, there has been an increased demand for oxygen. As a huge crowd waits outside the hospital premises, many people are receiving treatment at home, using oxygen concentrators and cylinders to breathe. 

“Concentrators function similarly to an oxygen cylinder, supplying oxygen through masks or nasal tubes. However, cylinders must be refilled, while oxygen concentrators can run on electricity 24 X 7” Dr. Tayal explained.


Oxygen concentrators are divided into two categories. These are continuous flow and pulse, respectively. A continuous flow oxygen concentrator delivers the same flow of oxygen per minute before it is switched off, while a pulse dose oxygen concentrator recognises the patient's breathing pattern and releases oxygen when inhalation is detected.


The doctor added, "Oxygen concentrators are lightweight and easy-to-carry alternatives to giant cylinders." However, concentrators are not the ideal choice for those with extreme comorbidities and complications since they only contain 5-10 litres of oxygen per minute, which may not be enough for patients with severe complications.

When the oxygen saturation falls below 92 percent, oxygen support can be started using an oxygen cylinder or an oxygen concentrator, according to Dr. Tayal. However, if the patient's health condition worsens and his or her saturation drops despite oxygen support, he or she should be admitted to the hospital right away, he said.


Also Read: COVID peak eludes India, experts postpone forecast


To ensure protection, adhere to the following guidelines:

*Make sure you're wearing your masks correctly.

*Avoid congested areas.

*Avoid enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.

*Keep your hands clean. Use sanitiser and/or soap and water on a regular basis.

*Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose with your hands that haven't been washed.

*Follow adequate social distancing guidelines.

*Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces on a regular basis.

*If you're experiencing tension or anxiety, seek 
psychological help.

It is strongly advised and encouraged that qualified individuals get vaccinated as soon as possible and that if they have any concerns, they seek medical advice.


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