I have heard that oxygen therapy might not be good for COPD patients. I want to understand why it could be harmful and what are the possible negative effects of using oxygen therapy in the treatment of COPD.
            
            
            
            
            
            
           
          
          
            5 answers
            
            
  
    
    isabella_cole_psychologist
    Thu Nov 21 2024
   
  
    Hypoxia stimulates the respiratory drive in COPD patients, prompting them to breathe more frequently to obtain sufficient oxygen.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    isabella_taylor_activist
    Thu Nov 21 2024
   
  
    However, when supplemental oxygen is administered, it removes this hypoxic stimulus, leading to hypoventilation.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    EclipseSeeker
    Thu Nov 21 2024
   
  
    Hypoventilation results in the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, leading to higher levels of this gas in the body.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    Giuseppe
    Thu Nov 21 2024
   
  
    In severe cases, hypoventilation can cause apnea, which refers to pauses in breathing, further compromising the patient's respiratory status.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    GyeongjuGrace
    Thu Nov 21 2024
   
  
    Supplemental oxygen therapy for COPD patients serves a crucial role in addressing their hypoxic condition.