What is the main purpose of oxygen therapy in COPD?

What is the main purpose of oxygen therapy in COPD?

• A. To treat hypoxemia and maintain O2 saturation > 90%
• B. To cure COPD
• C. To reduce exercise tolerance
• D. To cause hypercapnia

Answer: (A)

Oxygen therapy in COPD is used to correct low blood oxygen levels and keep oxygen saturation above a safe threshold (about 90% or higher). This helps prevent tissue hypoxia, reduces the strain on the heart from hypoxemia and pulmonary vasoconstriction, and can improve survival in patients with chronic resting or exertional hypoxemia. It does not cure COPD. In fact, for those who desaturate with activity, oxygen can improve exercise tolerance rather than reduce it. While there’s a risk of worsening CO2 retention if given inappropriately, the therapy is aimed at maintaining adequate oxygenation, not causing hypercapnia.

Oxygen therapy in COPD is used to correct low blood oxygen levels and keep oxygen saturation above a safe threshold (about 90% or higher). This helps prevent tissue hypoxia, reduces the strain on the heart from hypoxemia and pulmonary vasoconstriction, and can improve survival in patients with chronic resting or exertional hypoxemia. It does not cure COPD. In fact, for those who desaturate with activity, oxygen can improve exercise tolerance rather than reduce it. While there’s a risk of worsening CO2 retention if given inappropriately, the therapy is aimed at maintaining adequate oxygenation, not causing hypercapnia.