Happy Holidays everyone. I came across this article which I believe to be quite significant. I have yet to discuss it with my GP or pulmonologist. My pulmonologist put lung volume reduction surgery (via endobronchial valves) on hold (the previous appt he suggested it) for fear of pneumothorax, whereby the valve tears through lung tissue disabling the chest’s ability to create a negative pressure on inhalation to draw air inside. It is treatable but my GP said since I live alone a pneumothorax could be fatal.
Yesterday I came across this article regarding the exchange of blood gases across the alveoli membranes. It claims that it is best to keep O2 saturation in the 88-92% range. The inspiratory reflex is normally caused by an increase of carbon dioxide but if you’re on supplemental oxygen it changes and is initiated by a decrease of oxygen.
So for the next few days I am trying to use oxygen only after getting to an exacerbation. It will take me several days to internalize all this article has to offer including the additional links, but l hope that changing my oxygen regimen will give me more stamina. Take care and all the best to my fellow COPD sufferers.
James