Canned oxygen, marketed as supplemental or recreational oxygen, is a non-medical consumer product intended for general wellness support. This compressed gas is typically 95% pure oxygen; the remaining volume is ambient air, which contains approximately 21% oxygen. Sold over the counter, the product is distinct from the high-purity, prescription medical oxygen used in healthcare settings. It comes in lightweight, portable canisters designed to deliver a temporary boost of oxygen.
Practical Applications of Supplemental Oxygen
Supplemental canned oxygen is often used to help adjust to higher elevations where the air contains less oxygen. Hikers, skiers, and visitors to mountain regions might use the product for temporary relief from altitude-related discomfort or shortness of breath. The increased concentration of oxygen may help the body compensate for the lower atmospheric pressure found above 5,000 feet.
Athletes commonly use the canisters for post-exercise recovery to combat temporary physical fatigue. After intense exertion, tissues require more oxygen, and a brief exposure to the supplemental gas may help the user feel more alert and recover faster. Individuals also use the product during times of low energy or when exposed to poor air quality, such as heavy smog or wildfire smoke, to enhance their feeling of well-being.
The benefit stems from briefly increasing oxygen saturation in the blood, which supports normal metabolic processes. This temporary elevation may offer a sensation of refreshment or renewed focus. However, it is not a substitute for the body’s natural respiratory functions and is intended only for non-medical situations where a slight respiratory lift is desired.
Step-by-Step Guide to Inhaling Canned Oxygen
Using canned oxygen effectively begins with proper preparation of the canister and its delivery system. First, remove the protective seal and cap from the can, which often reveals a built-in mask or actuator. If a separate mask is provided, attach it firmly to the nozzle to ensure a sealed connection for optimal flow.
Position the mask or mouthpiece correctly to maximize the amount of oxygen inhaled. For most designs, the mask should be placed over both the mouth and the nose, or in some cases, under the nose and covering the mouth, depending on the manufacturer’s design. Ensure the seal is snug against the face to minimize gas loss to the surrounding air.
To release the oxygen, press the trigger or actuator button while simultaneously beginning to inhale. It is recommended to take a slow, deep breath for a brief period, typically lasting one to three seconds, before releasing the trigger and exhaling naturally. This technique ensures the lungs receive a concentrated dose of the gas.
The usage is intended to be intermittent, not continuous, as the supply is limited. Users typically repeat the inhalation process three to five times, then pause for several minutes to gauge the effect before considering another cycle. A large canister may provide up to 200 one-second inhalations, while a smaller size offers fewer.
Essential Safety Protocols and Storage
While oxygen itself is non-flammable, it vigorously supports combustion. Materials that normally burn slowly will ignite more easily and burn much faster in an oxygen-enriched environment. Keep the canister and its contents at least six feet away from all sources of ignition, including open flames, lit smoking materials, stoves, heaters, and electrical appliances that can spark.
The cans should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, with temperatures never exceeding 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper storage also means avoiding puncture or damage to the canister, as this could cause an uncontrolled release of the pressurized gas. Never use oil-based products, like petroleum jelly or greasy lotions, on your hands or face when handling the equipment, as these substances can ignite rapidly in the presence of concentrated oxygen.
This supplemental product is not a substitute for medical treatment. Anyone with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or other lung illnesses must consult a physician before using canned oxygen. Relying on this recreational product in a medical emergency instead of seeking professional care could lead to serious health complications.