How do you feel about going in public with O2 ?
I am diagnosed with COPD and was told last week to now go to continuous 24/7 oxygen. I use O2 at home, and am looking into portable BUT I am having difficulty dealing with this? I can’t imagine going into public carrying or wearing a machine? I am not a prideful person but this is an embarrassing thought for me. I am 63 but look much less feel or think that way. I don’t know what to think or how to feel about all this. I do realize it is a Blessings that I am still alive….comments appreciated.
I need it. I use it. I can get around with it. I'm not shy about it.
Good for you, WillDoe! Thanks for your input in response to ASAP815 - I'm sure it's appreciated. Warmly, Leon (site moderator)
Good for you WillDoe,
When you do what you need to do.
Barbara Moore (Site Moderator)
Hi ASAP815,
It isn't easy is it?
But, if you broke your arm and were wearing a cast, it wouldn't be an embarrassment, so what is the difference?
It is my experience that people are only shocked for about 45 seconds and then they get on with it. Have confidence in your friends, they will manage to get past it and if they don't, use it as an education moment.
Barbara Moore (Site Moderator)
Hi ASAP815 - You should be proud of yourself for taking that step! The first few times will be the worst but you'll feel better about it each time you do it. I promise!
Try to think of it a little differently than people "feeling sorry for you". They're actually showinig compassion, not pity. I know it's not always easy to accept, even compassion, from a stranger. However, for the most part, people in general mean well.
I hope you an get back to Pulmonary Rehab soon. Sounds like it was working for you.
Regards, Lyn (site moderator)Hi again, ASAP, and thanks for this post, too. I see now, why you inquired (above) about the Oxyview glasses and the transtracheal oxygen therapy (TTOT). I would also underscore what my colleague, Lyn, has said to you. You should feel real good about getting out with supplemental oxygen in use. By using the oxygen in public, you have gained additional freedom! As you do it more and more, you will recapture your own self confidence and you'll be surprised at how your friends, family and even the public adjusts. Keep up the good work!!! Warmly, Leon (site moderator)
Have to admit, I was the same way.
Then I discovered Oxyview glasses, and most recently tto2. These were both much better options for me.Can you please explain what Oxyview glasses and tto2 are? I've never heard of either! Thank you
Hi ASAP815 and thanks for your excellent question. Oxyview glasses are a type of eyeglass frame that incorporates the (nasal) oxygen device into the frame itself. By disguising the oxygen apparatus, the manufacturer feels the consumer will be less self conscious about using their oxygen in public. If you do a GOOGLE search using the word 'oxyview' you will be able to learn more about it from the manufacturer.
I believe when you are using the acronym tto2, you are referring to a transtracheal oxygen catheter. If you are, it is generally referred to as transtracheal oxygen therapy (TTOT). This device is surgically implanted and provides supplemental oxygen directly to the lungs via the trachea/windpipe. For further information about TTOT, you may want to discuss the topic with your physician.
I hope this brief explanation answered your question(s).
Thanks,
Leon (site moderator)
I was just diagnosed with COPD stage 3 a month ago and am on oxygen 24/7. I have a portable concentrator that I use outside the home. People really don’t stare. They may stop for a minute or do a double take but then they move on. For me it is not strangers I am concerned about. It is people I know but haven’t seen for some time that I am nervous about. Haven’t encountered that yet but know I will. Realize people just want to see you happy. If you’re ok with it, they will be too.
Hi NJBrandt, and thanks for joining in this conversation. You certainly seem to have a good outlook on this condition and how you manage it with continuous oxygen. As you said, the folks you know and are familiar with (who you haven't seen yet), will probably adjust based on your comfort level with this condition. We appreciate your input here. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator)
