Dear Dr. Mahler:

For the past 2 years, I have been using oxygen since being discharged from the hospital after a COPD flare-up. I was told to use the oxygen at a setting of 2 for 24/7. However, I find this requirement somewhat onersome.

I am 72 years old and use a nebulizer for my three different medications. I also go to a maintenance pulmonary rehab program at the local hospital here in Dayton.

My question is, How many hours do I really need to use the oxygen? When I take the oxygen off for 5 - 10 minutes, my sat stays around 87-88% and my breathing is fine. I an very conscientious about using oxygen at night when I sleep.

Thanks for your answer.

Kenny from Dayton, OH