Ambulatory Oxygen Therapy
What Is Ambulatory Oxygen Therapy?
Ambulatory oxygen therapy is designed for people whose blood oxygen levels fall when they are physically active.
For some people with lung conditions, the lungs cannot supply enough oxygen during movement or exercise. This can cause blood oxygen levels to drop, making you feel breathless or tired.
Ambulatory oxygen provides additional oxygen while you are active, helping to maintain healthy oxygen levels and making everyday activities more comfortable.
It may help you to:
- Stay active for longer
- Walk further with less breathlessness
- Carry out everyday activities more comfortably
- Feel more confident leaving the house
Ambulatory oxygen should only be used while you are active. It is not intended for prolonged use while sitting still or when sleeping.
How Does It Work?
Ambulatory oxygen is supplied using portable equipment that allows you to move around more easily.
Depending on your needs, you may be provided with:
- A portable oxygen concentrator (POC), carried over your shoulder or in a trolley
- A lightweight oxygen cylinder carried in a backpack
Your healthcare professional will recommend the equipment that best suits your lifestyle and oxygen requirements.
Who Can Benefit?
Not everyone with a lung condition requires ambulatory oxygen therapy.
Before oxygen can be prescribed, you’ll need a specialist assessment to determine whether it is likely to improve your oxygen levels during activity and help you remain active.
Your Assessment
If your doctor believes ambulatory oxygen therapy may benefit you, you’ll be referred to one of our Community Respiratory Specialist Team clinics across Bristol, North Somerset or South Gloucestershire.
During your appointment we’ll:
- Discuss your medical history and symptoms
- Ask about your daily activities and lifestyle
- Assess your mobility
- Explain how ambulatory oxygen may help
This information helps us decide whether ambulatory oxygen therapy is appropriate for you.
Six-Minute Walk Test
As part of your assessment, you’ll complete a six-minute walk test.
You’ll be asked to walk at your own comfortable pace along a flat corridor for six minutes while we monitor your oxygen levels using a small sensor placed on your finger or ear.
If your oxygen levels fall during the test, we’ll ask you to repeat it while using oxygen.
This allows us to determine:
- Whether ambulatory oxygen is suitable for you
- Which type of equipment is most appropriate
- The amount of oxygen you’ll need during activity
Safety
Oxygen must always be used safely.
Before oxygen equipment is supplied, we’ll carry out a home risk assessment to make sure it can be used safely.
This includes discussing:
- Smoking
- Exposure to cigarette smoke within the home
- Safe storage of oxygen equipment
- Any other factors that could affect your safety
Starting Ambulatory Oxygen Therapy
If your assessment shows ambulatory oxygen is likely to help and you decide to proceed:
- We’ll explain how the therapy works and answer any questions.
- We’ll send a prescription to your local oxygen supplier.
- Your equipment will usually be delivered within a few days, and you’ll be shown how to use it safely.
- We’ll review your progress after approximately six weeks.
- If the therapy is benefiting you, we’ll continue to review your treatment each year.
If you decide ambulatory oxygen isn’t right for you, we’ll arrange for the equipment to be collected.
Deciding Whether It’s Right for You
Choosing to use ambulatory oxygen is entirely your decision.
Some people find it helps them stay active and independent, while others decide it isn’t suitable for their lifestyle.
You may find it helpful to discuss the treatment with your family, carers or those you live with before making a decision. You’re also welcome to bring someone with you to your assessment appointment.
It’s important to remember:
- You do not have to use ambulatory oxygen therapy.
- The treatment is most effective when you’re committed to using it during activity.
- If you decide not to continue, please let us know so the equipment can be removed and made available for someone else.
Clinic Locations
Assessments are available at Community Respiratory Specialist Team clinics across:
- Bristol
- North Somerset
- South Gloucestershire
Your appointment letter will confirm the location of your assessment.
Further Information
If you have any questions about ambulatory oxygen therapy, your assessment or your treatment, please contact the Community Respiratory Specialist Team.
Telephone: 0300 124 5909
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use ambulatory oxygen?
No. Ambulatory oxygen is optional. Your healthcare professional will discuss whether it’s suitable for you, but the decision to use it is yours.
Can I use ambulatory oxygen at home?
Yes. It can be used whenever you’re active, both inside and outside your home. It should not be used while sleeping or while sitting still for long periods.
How long will I use it for?
You’ll be reviewed approximately six weeks after starting treatment. If it is helping, your therapy will be reviewed annually.
