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What Does Portable Oxygen Really Deliver Compared to Homecare Oxygen?

portable oxygen

Introduction:


For many patients living with chronic lung conditions, oxygen is more than just a therapy — it's a lifeline. But not all oxygen is delivered the same way.

If you’ve ever wondered why your oxygen machine at home feels different from the small, portable device you carry during the day, you’re not alone. Many patients and even some healthcare professionals ask the same question:

What does portable oxygen really deliver?Is it the same as home oxygen?

The truth is, while both systems are designed to keep you well-oxygenated, they work very differently — and understanding these differences is vital for ensuring safe, effective care.


In this guide, we break down the key differences between home oxygen concentrators and portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) in a clear, simple way. Whether you're a patient seeking better control over your health, or a medical professional guiding patients in choosing the right device, this FAQ will help you understand what truly matters when it comes to oxygen therapy — at home and on the move.


Now let’s structure the blog post in FAQ style, based on what we discussed:

FAQ: Understanding Portable Oxygen vs Homecare Oxygen


1. Is the oxygen from a portable concentrator the same as from my home machine?


No — it’s not the same. Home concentrators deliver continuous flow oxygen — a steady stream of oxygen measured in liters per minute (LPM). Portable concentrators deliver pulse dose oxygen, which provides a small burst of oxygen only when you inhale.


2. What does 'pulse dose' mean compared to 'continuous flow'?


  • Continuous flow: Oxygen is delivered continuously, even when you’re not breathing in.


  • Pulse dose: Oxygen is delivered in bursts or "puffs" every time you take a breath.

Pulse dose is efficient and designed to match your natural breathing pattern. However, it’s not measured in LPM like continuous flow — it’s based on how much oxygen you get with each breath.


3. If I am on 4 LPM at home, does setting 4 on my portable give me the same oxygen?


No. Setting 4 on a portable device does not mean 4 LPM.


  • On portable devices like the Inogen G5 or iGo2, the number (setting 4) controls the size of the oxygen pulse, not a continuous flow rate.


  • For example, the Inogen G5 at setting 4 delivers about 840 mL per minute, depending on your breathing pattern — much less than 4 LPM continuous.


Your oxygen needs may still be met, but it depends on your breathing rate and depth of breath. Always monitor your oxygen saturation when switching devices.


4. Does my breathing affect how much oxygen I get from a portable concentrator?


Yes — absolutely.


  • If you breathe deeply and regularly, the portable can deliver the full dose each time you inhale.


  • If your breathing is shallow or very fast, you might not trigger the device properly or may receive less oxygen than needed.


It's not directly about lung capacity — it's about how strong and regular your breaths are. This is why some patients need continuous flow at night or during exertion.

5. How does the Inogen G5 compare to the DeVilbiss iGo2?


Feature

Inogen One G5

DeVilbiss iGo2

Pulse Settings

1–6

1–5

Max Oxygen Output

~1,260 mL/min (setting 6)

~900 mL/min (setting 5)

Battery Life

Up to 13 hours (double battery)

Up to 5 hours

Weight

2.2 kg (4.7 lbs)

2.3 kg (5 lbs)

Summary: The Inogen G5 delivers more oxygen per breath and has longer battery life. It’s better for patients who need higher oxygen doses or want longer time away from a charger.


6. Why is understanding these differences important?


Knowing the difference between pulse dose and continuous flow is crucial:


  • For patients: It ensures you’re getting the right oxygen support for different activities — resting, walking, or sleeping.


  • For healthcare providers: It helps match the correct device to the patient’s clinical needs, ensuring effective therapy without compromising mobility or oxygenation.


Using the wrong device for your needs could lead to low oxygen levels (hypoxia), which can affect your energy, heart function, and overall health.


7. Can a portable oxygen concentrator be used at night?


Caution is needed here. Some patients, especially during sleep when breathing becomes slower and shallower, may not trigger a pulse dose device reliably. In these cases, a continuous flow concentrator is recommended for nighttime use to ensure stable oxygen levels.


Always consult with your doctor or respiratory therapist for a sleep oxygenation assessment before relying on a portable device overnight.


8. Final Thoughts: What Should Patients and Professionals Keep in Mind?


Portable oxygen concentrators are life-changing tools that offer freedom and mobility — but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Knowing how they work, what they deliver, and how they compare to home concentrators is key to making the right choice.

Always ensure your oxygen therapy is tailored to your unique breathing patterns, activity levels, and medical needs.

Oxygen therapy is not just about breathing easier — it’s about living better.

Need help choosing the right oxygen concentrator? Reach out to us for advice on the best solutions for your lifestyle and health needs.



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