Respiratory Care Week: Celebrating Therapists and Promoting Health

Breathing is something most people don’t think twice about—until it becomes difficult. For those with respiratory conditions, supplemental oxygen can be life-changing. However, not all oxygen is the same. Medical-grade oxygen is a specific type of oxygen that is highly regulated, requires a prescription, and is distinct from the air we breathe. Here’s what you need to know about what makes medical-grade oxygen unique and why it requires a doctor’s approval. What Is Medical-Grade Oxygen? Medical-grade oxygen, also known as Oxygen, USP, is oxygen that meets strict purity and safety standards set by regulatory agencies such as the FDA in the United States. The term USP stands for United States Pharmacopeia, which is a national set of guidelines that defines the quality, strength, and purity of medications and health products. For oxygen to be labeled as USP, it must be at least 99.0% pure and free from contaminants and impurities that could be harmful to those using it for medical

Apr 08, 2025 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

Living with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) can be challenging year-round, but cold weather can exacerbate symptoms. The drop in temperature, dry air, and increased risk of respiratory infections can all make it harder to breathe. Here, we’ll explore tips to manage COPD symptoms during colder months and how oxygen therapy can help keep you comfortable and safe.   How Does Cold Weather Affect COPD? Cold air can irritate the airways, causing them to narrow, which makes it harder to breathe. Additionally, when the air is dry, it can worsen symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. Colder temperatures also increase the risk of respiratory infections like the flu or pneumonia, which can cause further complications for those with COPD.   Tips for Managing COPD in the Cold Dress Warmly and Cover Your Face: Keeping your body warm can help reduce stress on your respiratory system. Wear layers and use a scarf to cover your mouth and nose when outside. This

Jan 22, 2025 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects millions of people worldwide, and its impact goes beyond the lungs. This post explores how COPD contributes to heart problems and why managing your condition is essential for heart health.   What Is COPD? COPD is a chronic condition that restricts airflow, causing breathing difficulties. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and mucus production. Key Statistics on COPD More than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, and many more may suffer without realizing it. COPD is in the top ten leading causes of death in  the U.S., making awareness and early treatment critical for improving COPD prognosis and overall well-being. How COPD Affects the Cardiovascular System The respiratory and cardiovascular systems work together to deliver oxygen to the body. When COPD limits oxygen intake, the heart works harder, leading to complications like pulmonary hypertension,

Jan 13, 2025 Posted By Kate Wildenthaler

              Victoria Marquard Schultz/OxyGo Announced as winner in 2020 Smart 50 Awards. The Smart 50 Awards, presented by Smart Business, honor the top 50 executives in the Greater Cleveland region Westlake, OH. – October 30th, 2020 – OxyGo LLC, a leader in lightweight portable oxygen concentrators, announced in a virtual ceremony that Victoria Marquard-Schultz, OxyGo’s CEO, was named a Smart 50 winner by Smart Business Magazine for the second year in a row. The Smart 50 Awards presented by Smart Business honor the top executives of the region’s smartest 50 companies for their ability to effectively build and lead successful organizations. “The only thing better than winning a Smart 50 is winning twice. I am truly honored to be among this prestigious group. With COVID-19 our team and providers have had to find new ways to safely and effectively adapt to an ever-changing world. Receiving this award wouldn’t

Nov 24, 2020 Posted By Brittany Fichter