Pulse vs. Continuous Flow: What You Need to Know
Pulse dose and continuous flow concentrators are used to provide supplemental oxygen to individuals with respiratory conditions. When it comes to oxygen therapy, it is essential to understand the different flow options and which one suits your needs.
Pulse Flow Oxygen
Pulse flow, also known as pulse dose oxygen delivery, has become popular for its effectiveness and convenience, especially for active or mobile patients. Pulse flow oxygen delivers oxygen in pulses that are in sync with your breath. So when you inhale, the device senses your breath through the nasal cannula sensor and it will release a specific amount of oxygen. After the device senses an inhalation, it will release a specific amount of oxygen that will cater to the patient's needs.
Benefits of Pulse Dose Oxygen Delivery
Pulse dose oxygen delivery offers several advantages that make it a compelling option for many patients:
- Enhanced Portability: Pulse flow concentrators are often lighter and more compact than continuous flow models. This makes them easier to transport, whether you’re going to the store or traveling.
- Longer Battery Life: Since oxygen is delivered only during inhalation, pulse dose systems can operate longer on a single battery charge compared to continuous flow devices. This is especially beneficial for those who need oxygen throughout the day.
- Reduced Oxygen Consumption: By delivering oxygen only when needed, pulse dose systems can minimize waste, which can lead to cost savings in the long run.
- Comfort: Many users find pulse flow more comfortable during physical activities since it provides a more natural breathing experience.
- Discretion: Additionally, the smaller size of pulse flow devices often makes them less conspicuous.
Pulse Flow Oxygen Concentrators
- Oxlife Liberty 2
- Arya Go
- Arya Q
- Arya Airtivo Max
- Arya Mini
Continuous Flow Oxygen
Continuous flow oxygen will provide individuals with a steady flow of oxygen regardless of their breathing patterns. Continuous flow is especially suitable for individuals with severe respiratory conditions or individuals with irregular breathing patterns. Continuous flow devices extract oxygen from the ambient air and deliver a continuous stream of oxygen to the user through a nasal cannula. Continuous flow devices can also be adjusted to deliver oxygen at different flow rates.
Benefits of Continuous Dose Oxygen Delivery
Continuous flow oxygen therapy has several advantages, particularly for certain patients:
- Steady Oxygen Supply: Continuous flow provides a reliable and uninterrupted supply of oxygen, which is crucial for individuals with respiratory challenges. This can be beneficial during sleep or periods of inactivity.
- Higher Oxygen Delivery: Continuous flow systems can deliver higher flow rates compared to pulse dose devices. Patients with severe conditions, such as advanced COPD, would benefit from those who may require more oxygen to maintain adequate saturation levels.
- Simplicity of Use: Continuous flow systems are often straightforward to use, with fewer settings to adjust. Continuous flow is essential for individuals with severe respiratory conditions, who require a higher oxygen flow rate to maintain proper saturation levels.
- Support for Various Activities: Continuous flow is beneficial during sleep or while engaging in activities that require stable oxygen levels. This ensures that patients do not experience dips in oxygen saturation.
Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators
- SeQual Eclipse 5
- GCE Zen-O
- Oxlife Independence
- Oxlife Liberty 2
- Devilbiss Quiet
Choosing Between Pulse and Continuous Flow
Pulse dose vs. continuous flow oxygen for oxygen therapy should be decided by your healthcare providers. The decision will be based on your activity level, daily oxygen requirement, as well as frequency of oxygen therapy treatments. A doctor will help guide you towards either a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator or a pulse dose portable oxygen concentrator.