What are some common uses of medical oxygen?

Medical oxygen is commonly used in healthcare settings primarily to decrease shortness of breath and treat conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In patients with COPD, their ability to exchange oxygen effectively in the lungs is compromised, and supplemental oxygen helps to ensure that the body receives adequate oxygen levels. This can alleviate feelings of breathlessness, enhance overall well-being, and improve quality of life for those with respiratory issues.

While other uses of oxygen might exist in different contexts, they are not recognized as common medical applications. For instance, reducing appetite and promoting weight loss or improving digestive health are not scientifically supported uses of medical oxygen in clinical practice. Similar reasoning applies to enhancing workout performance, which does not necessarily correlate with supplemental oxygen usage in standard medical contexts. It’s crucial to focus on the therapeutic roles of oxygen, particularly in managing respiratory conditions.