Dear Dr. Mahler:

I am 71 years old and have severe COPD for several years, but am doing fine and have adjusted to my situation. I use oxygen 24/7 from a stationary concentrator at home and from a POC with activities and travel. I fly (at least before COVID-19) to visit my children/grandchildren in Wisconsin.

However, I am confused about my oxygen flow rate. My doctor told me that 2 liters/minute is what I need at rest, and my oxygen saturation level is usually 91-92%. However, I turn up the oxygen to 4 liters/min because I feel better when my saturation level is 94-95%.

My POC has pulse flow and I use the highest number – 5 – which maintains a saturation around 91% when I am active.

What are your thoughts on this?

Jim in Austin, TX