Breathing is something most of us take for granted until we feel the effects of lower-than-optimal oxygen levels. In today’s fast-paced world, our oxygen levels can dip below optimal levels because of travel fatigue, a night of partying, exposure to polluted air, strenuous exercise and the process of adjusting to higher elevation. Offering a concentrated amount of oxygen - the body’s more prolific source of energy - breathing supplemental oxygen can provide a natural, quick energy boost that helps enhance overall wellness. In this blog, we'll explore the barriers to obtaining medical-grade or prescription oxygen, and discuss the various options available for non-prescription or pre-medical oxygen relief and systems.
One significant barrier to accessing medical oxygen is the requirement for a prescription. In most cases, a doctor's order is required for oxygen therapy. To qualify for a prescription, your oxygen levels normally need to fall below 88% Spo2. This requirement is restricting, especially when you’re a healthy person who does not need oxygen for medical reasons, but rather for the temporary restoration of depleted oxygen levels to optimal levels at work, home and play.
Even if someone qualifies, in times of high demand (e.g., the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic) and in some remote or underserved areas, obtaining medical oxygen is a logistical challenge. The distribution infrastructure for oxygen cylinders and concentrators may not be readily available, making it difficult for people who want or need supplemental oxygen to obtain access to oxygen.
Another hurdle to obtaining oxygen can be insurance coverage. Even with a valid prescription, insurance may not cover the costs of medical-grade oxygen, leaving individuals looking for an out-of-pocket oxygen solution a financial burden. This burden is more problematic for people seeking a more regular supply of supplemental oxygen..
Before receiving a prescription for medical-grade oxygen, people often need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation. This evaluation may include pulmonary function tests and other diagnostic procedures to determine the severity of their respiratory condition and the appropriate plan for oxygen therapy.
Fortunately, there are non-prescription oxygen systems and solutions available that can help individuals restore depleted oxygen levels to optimal levels. These options do notreplace medical oxygen - and any person with a medical condition should consult his or her doctor prior to the use of any of the following non-medical oxygen systems or solutions - however what follows may help top off depleted oxygen levels, thereby supporting well-being for healthy people who use the oxygen system or solution as directed.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves the use of a hyperbaric chamber, which delivers pure, concentrated oxygen at higher atmospheric pressures. While hard-shell hyperbaric chambers are typically considered prescription-only options for specific conditions and are usually administered in clinical settings, some wellness centers offer soft-shell or mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy (mHBOT) sessions that do not require a prescription. mHBOT is used for various wellness purposes, including potential benefits for sports recovery, relaxation and general well-being.
Oxygen bars have gained popularity as a non-prescription source of supplemental oxygen. These - often portable - establishments, such as Oxygen Plus’s Minnesota “oxygen+bar,” offer customers the opportunity to inhale purified oxygen, with the option of aromatic scents. Many people find an oxygen bar session refreshing and energizing, especially after a long flight or during or after a late night out.
Oxygen Plus (O+) the pioneer of portable oxygen canisters - is like an oxygen bar for your back pocket. The only recreational oxygen canister made in a clean room environment at a FDA-Registered Facility, which guarantees product purity, O+ oxygen is filled with 99.5% pure oxygen - more than five times the amount of oxygen found in unpolluted, everyday air. O+ oxygen is compact, easy to carry, and does not require a prescription because the oxygen cylinders are made for healthy active people for intermittent use, and the oxygen is not medical grade but rather filled with Aviator Breathing Oxygen - the same oxygen commercial pilots breathe in the cockpit. In its ability to effectively restore depleted oxygen levels to optimal levels, Oxygen Plus is an effective, quick relief from feelings of fatigue, late nights, stress and the effects of strenuous exercise, altitude and hangovers. When you need a kick to feel like your best you again, O+ oxygen can be your best friend.
Some wellness companies manufacture or sell smaller, portable oxygen concentrators that can be purchased and used without a prescription. These devices concentrate ambient air, delivering oxygen-rich output through a nasal cannula or mask.
Some dietary supplements and oxygen-infused products claim to increase oxygen levels in the body. However, the efficacy and safety of these products is not well-established and they should be used with caution. Oxygen is a gas, and the most effective way to restore depleted oxygen levels to normal, healthy levels is through inhalation into the lungs.
Non-prescription oxygen systems, like Oxygen Plus (O+) oxygen, offer several benefits:
Oxygen Plus (O+) oxygen canisters are small and lightweight with multiple uses in each size - making the natural energizing supplement convenient to carry in a purse, pack or pocket. The durable, portable canister ensures topping off depleted oxygen levels is always within reach.
Non-prescription oxygen systems provide immediate relief from symptoms related to low oxygen levels, helping you catch your breath, feel more energized and reduce stress. Living each day with optimal oxygen levels with non-medical, recreational oxygen can be especially helpful during or after travel, strenuous activities, or late-night festivities.
Non-prescription oxygen systems can be used for various purposes, such as combating jet lag, boosting energy levels before a workout, or simply refreshing oneself after a long day.
As previously stated, unlike medical-grade oxygen, non-prescription options, like recreational oxygen from O+, do not require a pre-qualified medical condition or a doctor's prescription. Now, everyone has the ability to purchase and use oxygen to restore depleted oxygen to optimal levels anytime they need a lift. Belief in this basic human right - the right that every individual should have access to pure oxygen for his or her wellness and wellbeing - is why Oxygen Plus was born and remains committed to offering the best-quality recreational oxygen to wellness-minded people worldwide.
Among the non-prescription oxygen options on the market, Oxygen Plus is a standout choice. Here are some reasons why O+ oxygen is an excellent option:
Oxygen Plus canisters are filled with 99.5% Aviator Breathing Oxygen, similar to medical grade oxygen which is concentrated at 99.5% and higher, in a clean room environment at a FDA-Registered Facility, ensuring its active, wellness-minded customers receive high-quality oxygen at work, home and play.
O+ oxygen canisters are designed to withstand rough handling and extreme conditions. Whether you're traveling, hiking or at a big party or event, you can rely on Oxygen Plus to provide effective, on-demand oxygen delivery for natural energy and recovery.
Oxygen Plus offers a range of canister sizes, including a reusable shell that loads in refill canisters, allowing users to choose what best suits their lifestyle and activity. From the compact O+ Mini to the O+ Biggi, and the environmentally-minded O-Stick, there's an O+ oxygen solution for everyone.
Oxygen Plus places a strong emphasis on responsible manufacturing and sustainability. Each lightweight oxygen canister is recyclable after use (unless restricted by local recycling regulations), and the company prioritizes environmentally-friendly practices in their production process, and donates 1% of top-line revenue to vetted organizations focused on protecting Mother Earth through membership with Patagonia-founded ‘1% for the Planet.’
The barriers to obtaining medical-grade oxygen, such as prescriptions and insurance coverage, can be challenging for individuals seeking relief from breathing difficulties. Non-prescription oxygen systems like oxygen bars and handheld recreational oxygen canisters from Oxygen Plus (O+) offer convenient, effective solutions for restoring depleted oxygen to optimal levels - so you can think, feel and perform your best, anytime you need a lift.
While non-prescription oxygen systems do not replace medical-grade oxygen, they can provide much-needed relief in various situations, or simply provide a great boost of energy! O+ oxygen stands out as an excellent choice due to its high purity, durability, variety of options, and commitment to responsible, sustainable manufacturing.
Anyone looking to enhance his or her wellness and address breathing challenges without the hassle of prescriptions, may want to consider O+ as a top non-prescription oxygen option. Explore the world of portable oxygen with supplemental oxygen such as Oxygen Plus and experience the benefits of improved oxygen levels for yourself.