What is an oxygen concentrator?
An oxygen concentrator or machine is a medical machine that separates oxygen from the air and delivers it to a patient. It treats people with low blood oxygen levels, also known as hypoxemia.
People who would use an oxygen concentrator are patients who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, sleep apnoea, asthma, and pneumonia. Patients who have had surgery or are at high altitudes will also benefit from looking into oxygen machines for sale.
How does it work?
Air is drawn into an oxygen concentrator and filtered. Air filters remove nitrogen and other gases, leaving oxygen. Oxygen is concentrated and supplied to the patient via a nasal cannula or face mask.
The oxygen concentrator has two main components: a compressor that draws in the air and a sieve bed that removes the nitrogen and other gases from the air.
There are several options for getting oxygen to people who require it. The circumstances and the patient’s condition dictate which option would be used:
- An oxygen face mask is a transparent mask that covers the patient’s mouth and nose. The mask’s oxygen delivery rate is far higher than a nasal cannula’s.
- A little tube called a nasal cannula is inserted into the patient’s nostrils. It releases oxygen at a constant, low rate.
- A transparent plastic oxygen tent encircles the patient entirely. It provides the body with an abundant supply of oxygen.
- Direct insertion of a tube into a patient’s windpipe, or trachea, is known as a tracheostomy. Direct, high-oxygen delivery to the lungs is achieved using a tracheostomy tube.
The needs of the patient and the seriousness of their ailment will determine the type of gadget that should be employed by the doctor or medical team.
Types of oxygen concentrators
A stationary and portable oxygen concentrator are the two types of oxygen machines for sale.
Stationary oxygen concentrators are larger and more powerful than portable ones, making them ideal for home or hospital use. Portable oxygen concentrators are for travelling and going out. They are usually lighter and smaller than stationary oxygen concentrators.
Many oxygen machines are imported from other countries and the high cost of imported parts and components are two of the main reasons oxygen machines are so expensive.
Factors to consider when you purchase an oxygen machine
Talk to your doctor before utilising an oxygen concentrator. They can assist you in buying the correct concentrator for your lifestyle and demands. Consider the following:
- A set budget for covering new equipment and maintenance costs —oxygen concentrators cost a few thousand to several thousand rand.
- Your medical needs – Your medical condition will define your oxygen concentrator needs. If you need a lot of oxygen at once, you need a bigger concentrator.
- Your lifestyle—You need a portable oxygen concentrator if you move a lot.
Price of oxygen machines in South Africa
In South Africa, oxygen concentrators can cost a pretty penny. Oxygen machines can be as expensive as R30,000 or even more, with prices fluctuating widely among models, features, and brands.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority imposes regulations on oxygen equipment, which drives up their cost and necessitates specialised production procedures.
