Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy is a treatment that provides you with supplemental, or extra, oxygen. It can help you feel better and stay active.
Oxygen is a gas that is vital to human life. It is one of the gases that is found in the air we breathe. If you have a chronic lung disease, you may need additional (supplemental) oxygen for your organs to function normally.
Here are some conditions that may require supplemental oxygen, either temporarily or long-term:
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pneumonia
- A severe asthma attack
- Cystic fibrosis
- Sleep apnea
Although oxygen therapy may be common in the hospital, it can also be used at home. There are several devices used to deliver oxygen at home. Your healthcare provider will help you choose the equipment that works best for you. Oxygen is usually delivered through nasal prongs (an oxygen cannula) or a face mask. Oxygen equipment can attach to other medical equipment such as CPAP machines and ventilators.
Learning all you can about oxygen therapy can help you feel more comfortable and confident. Use the links below to learn more.
Tell Congress to Pass Supplemental Oxygen Reform This Year
For too long, people who require supplemental oxygen have not had access to the appropriate treatment for their medical and quality of life needs, especially individuals who require liquid oxygen. We’re urging Congress to pass the Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act, (S. 1406/H.R. 2902), a bipartisan bill to protect patient access to the appropriate type of supplemental oxygen for their needs. Take action today and urge your member of Congress to pass the SOAR Act.
Page last updated: November 2, 2026
