multiple methods for COPD
I have an oxygen concentrator, albuterol and Trelegy. I did purchase a face mask for night time as I am a mouth breather. I don't know what to use when!! I read that oxygen creates a Haldane effect which is not good. Anyone know anything? Hard to find a second opinion from a doctor (I guess because of COVID). My current doctor is busy and not very helpful. Thank you.
Hi CM1916, and thanks for your post - it's a good one!
The Haldane effect (and the Bohr effect), describe the changes in the affinity of oxygen (and carbon dioxide), for hemoglobin depending on whether the hemoglobin is saturated (with oxygen) or desaturated. Generally speaking, it is addressing the transfer of oxygen (and carbon dioxide), within the lung and also at the tissue level.
From my perspective, this may not be the type of theory that you should dwell on.
Again, from my perspective, if the therapy you have been prescribed (supplemental oxygen, albuterol, and Trelegy), keeps your breathing comfortable (and not labored), and your oxygen saturation level normal, for your level of disease, this would be considered successful treatment.
What do you think?
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
Hi there. Having several different medications can be hard to get used to. If you are not sure when to use each one, you may want to leave a message for your doctor, explaining that you are unsure of your medication instructions. A nurse from the doctor's office or your pharmacist may be able to help answer these questions as well. What trouble are you having with getting a second opinion? Is it hard to find a doctor, or a long wait time? Let us know if we can offer suggestions. Hope you can get this sorted! Thanks for reaching out. -Melissa, copd.net team 
I agree! Last time I was in the hospital, a medical person of some type told me not to let my O2 level go above 92, because of the effect of carbon dioxide on the ability of the oxygen to be absorbed. I worked on that for a while, keeping track of my levels all day, but finally decided to use as my guide the ability of my lungs to keep the level above 88, and remove the oxygen as that improved. My reasoning was that, without supplemental O2, that would never be an issue, but I needed the O2 til my lungs got back to "normal." And now, it's no longer an issue, so it worked out ok. But the bigger point is, as you say, not to dwell on it, if you can function in the range, and are comfortable.
Thanks, Leon, that's new information to me. It makes total sense. So, for me, 88-92 is a good level to keep the CO2 from increasing to a high level. So much to balance, isn't there!
Hi whirledpeas - it's my pleasure! I thought the extra insight might prove to be helpful for you. I am glad it makes sense, too! Many patients with whom I interact benefit from knowing more about their own specific level of disease. That is where I felt the rationale would help you understand more - that can help with the balancing, too!
Warmly,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
