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Intermedical Oxygen Blog: Can I use a portable oxygen concentrator on a flight?

For people who require oxygen therapy, traveling on a flight can be challenging. Air travel can affect oxygen levels and can be risky for those who depend on a continuous supply of oxygen. In the past, the only option for oxygen-dependent individuals was to use bulky oxygen tanks, which were not allowed on flights due to safety regulations. However, with the advent of portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), it has become possible to travel on a flight with oxygen therapy.

A POC is a small, lightweight device that extracts oxygen from the air and delivers it to the user through a nasal cannula or mask. These devices are designed to be carried easily and are permitted on flights, subject to certain rules and regulations. Here’s what you need to know if you plan to travel with a POC.

Firstly, it is important to note that different airlines have different policies when it comes to carrying POCs on flights. Most airlines require the user to inform them in advance about their requirement for oxygen therapy and provide them with a doctor’s certificate stating their need for oxygen. It is recommended to check with the airline before booking your tickets to ensure that you meet all the requirements.

Secondly, the user needs to ensure that the POC meets the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) requirements for use on flights. The FAA has specific rules and regulations regarding the use of POCs on flights, such as the maximum flow rate of oxygen allowed, the size and weight of the device, and the battery life. Users are advised to purchase a POC that is FAA-approved and meets all the necessary requirements.

FAA approved portable concentrators list on our site: find out more click here.

It is also important to note that POCs cannot be used during take-off, landing, or at any time when the seatbelt sign is on. Users are required to switch off the device during these times and use any other oxygen delivery system provided by the airline. The POC can only be used when the seatbelt sign is off, and the user is free to move around the cabin.

Lastly, it is essential to carry enough batteries for the duration of the flight. The FAA requires the user to carry enough batteries to last 150% of the flight time. For example, if the flight is six hours long, the user needs to carry enough batteries to last for nine hours.

In conclusion, traveling with a POC on a flight is possible, but it requires some preparation and adherence to the rules and regulations set by the FAA and the airline. If you are planning to travel with a POC, ensure that you have all the necessary documents and batteries, and check with the airline before booking your tickets to ensure that you meet all the requirements. With proper planning and preparation, people who require oxygen therapy can travel safely and comfortably on flights with the help of POCs.

Always check with your airline before travelling as extra medical forms might need to be submitted before allowing the passenger onboard.

May Breathing Tips: Stay Comfortable & Active This Spring 

May Wellness for Oxygen Users: Stay Comfortable as Temperatures Rise 
Spring is in full swing, and warmer weather means more opportunities to enjoy the fresh air. But for oxygen users, seasonal allergies, humidity, and increased activity can bring new challenges.

This month, we’re sharing essential tips to help you breathe easier, stay active, and care for your oxygen equipment as temperatures rise.

Warmer Weather & Oxygen Therapy: What to Watch For

May brings longer days and rising temperatures, which can affect your oxygen use. Here’s how to stay comfortable:
Stay cool – Heat can make breathing harder. Try using a fan indoors and wearing loose, breathable clothing.
Keep your oxygen device out of direct sunlight – High temperatures can impact performance.
Hydrate regularly – Warmer weather increases the risk of dehydration, which can thicken mucus and make breathing more difficult.
Be mindful of air pollution – Hotter days can mean higher pollution levels, which may worsen breathlessness. 

Tip: Check your local air quality index before heading outdoors and plan activities accordingly.

Reduce Breathlessness with This Simple Outdoor Breathing Exercise

Spending time outside can be refreshing, but if you experience shortness of breath while walking, try this:
1. Walk at a steady pace while breathing in through your nose for two steps.
2. Breathe out slowly through pursed lips for the next four steps.
3. Maintain a steady rhythm—this helps keep your breathing under control.
4. Pause and rest if needed, then resume at a comfortable pace.

Practicing this method while walking can help reduce breathlessness and improve oxygen flow.

Planning to Get Out More? A Portable Oxygen Solution Can Help

With brighter days ahead, many oxygen users want to stay active—but carrying heavy tanks can make outings difficult. A portable oxygen concentrator offers a lightweight, flexible solution so you can enjoy the season with confidence.

Easy to Carry – No more struggling with bulky cylinders.
Oxygen When You Need It – Generates oxygen on demand, with no refills required.
Perfect for Travel & Outdoor Activities – Approved for use on planes, trains, and road trips.

Explore Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Spring is a time for movement—breathe easier wherever life takes you.

Oxygen Equipment Care: Why You Should Check Your Filters

Dust and pollen levels tend to increase in May, so keeping your oxygen concentrator filter clean is key to maintaining good airflow. Here’s how:
Check your filter weekly – Pollen and dust can clog it faster during spring.
Wash with warm, soapy water – Let it dry completely before using.
Replace when needed – Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure optimal performance.

A clean filter ensures your oxygen therapy remains effective and helps prevent blockages.

Need help with your oxygen therapy?

We’re always here to help. Call us on 0800 640 8701 or email ho******@*************co.uk for expert advice.

Take care, breathe easy, and enjoy the fresh air this May.
The Homecare Team at Intermedical

Breathe Easier This Spring: April Tips for Oxygen Users 

April Wellness for Oxygen Users: Stay Comfortable This Spring  
Spring is in full swing, bringing brighter days and new opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. However, seasonal changes can affect your breathing, from temperature shifts to increased pollen levels.

This month, we’re sharing essential tips to help you breathe easier, stay active, and care for your oxygen equipment.

Managing Spring Allergies & Oxygen Therapy

If you find yourself more breathless than usual, seasonal allergies may be affecting your oxygen therapy. Here’s how to reduce the impact of allergens:
Check pollen forecasts – Avoid outdoor activities when pollen levels are high.
Keep windows closed – Use a fan or air purifier indoors to maintain airflow.
Wear a mask outdoors – This can help filter out airborne allergens.
Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water helps thin mucus, making breathing easier.

Gentle Breathing Exercises to Improve Oxygen Flow

Even small amounts of gentle movement and breathing exercises can make a big difference in managing breathlessness. Try this simple Diaphragmatic Breathing technique:
1. Sit comfortably and place one hand on your stomach.
2. Inhale deeply through your nose, letting your belly rise (not your chest).
3. Exhale slowly through pursed lips, feeling your stomach go down.
4. Repeat for 5 minutes to improve oxygen efficiency and reduce shortness of breath.

Tip: Practicing this every morning can help you feel more in control of your breathing throughout the day.

Enjoy More Freedom with a Lighter Oxygen Solution

Spring is a time for getting out and making the most of brighter days—but carrying heavy oxygen cylinders can make that difficult. If you’re looking for a more flexible and lightweight solution, a portable oxygen concentrator could be the answer. 

Move with ease – No more lugging around bulky tanks.
Breathe freely – Oxygen is generated as you need it, with no refills required.
Stay active – Perfect for travel, shopping, or simply getting outside more.

Browse Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Take the next step toward breathing with confidence.

Oxygen Equipment Care Tip: Keep Your Filter Clean

clean oxygen filter ensures your concentrator delivers the best airflow. Here’s how to keep it in top shape:
Check your filter weekly – Dust and debris can block airflow.
Wash with warm, soapy water – Let it air dry completely before reinserting.
Replace when needed – Follow manufacturer guidelines for replacement schedules.

Need help with your oxygen equipment?

We’re always happy to assist. Call us on 0800 640 8701 or email ho******@*************co.uk for expert advice.

Wishing you a healthy and comfortable April,
The Homecare Team at Intermedical

Inogen Rove 6 Launched

The new Inogen Rove 6

Since 2001, Inogen have been creating a best-­in­-class portfolio of portable oxygen concentrators. They utilise direct patient feedback in their research and development efforts to further innovate their technology and products in order to stay at the forefront of patient preference.

The Inogen Rove 6 is the latest portable oxygen concetrator in the Inogen range.  It is an ideal solution for patients looking for a POC that maximizes their range and flexibility for oxygen delivery in a system that is quiet, easy to use and easy to maintain. The Inogen Rove 6 is designed to empower people with the peace of mind that comes with feeling ready to continue their normal activities – like spending quality time with family and friends, enjoying the great outdoors and traveling. With 6 flow settings, the Inogen Rove 6 is the most flexible POC Inogen have ever offered, delivering up to 1,260 mL of medical-grade oxygen per minute.

Rove 6 Concentrator

Intermedical (UK) Ltd announces the re-launch of the Intermedical Direct Website

Intermedical Direct has recently relaunched its website, intermedicaldirect.co.uk. This online platform is dedicated to providing a wide range of medical equipment and supplies to healthcare professionals and individuals across the UK. The new website is designed to offer an enhanced user experience with a simplified interface, improved navigation, and a responsive layout that adapts to different screen sizes.

Intermedical Direct is committed to delivering quality products and exceptional customer service to its clients. The company has been in the medical supply business for over 25 years, and it has built a reputation for providing reliable and cost-effective solutions. The website features a vast selection of medical equipment, from mobility aids and rehabilitation equipment to diagnostic tools and oxygen therapy. The company sources its products from reputable manufacturers and suppliers, ensuring that all items meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

The new website has a modern and user-friendly interface that makes it easy for visitors to browse through the product catalogue and find what they need. The website is organized into different categories mirroring the specialised divisions of the business , such as Primary Care, Secondary Care, Homecare, Smoking Cessation. Each category has a detailed product lines description and specifications, as well as customer reviews and ratings. This information helps buyers make informed decisions and choose the right products for their needs.

The new website also features a blog section, where visitors can find informative articles about health and wellness, medical equipment, and industry news. The blog is regularly updated with fresh content, providing valuable insights and tips for healthcare professionals and individuals alike.

Intermedical Direct offers a secure and easy-to-use online ordering system, which allows customers to purchase products directly from the website. The company accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and PayPal, and offers fast and reliable shipping to all parts of the UK. Customers can also contact the company’s knowledgeable customer service team for assistance with product selection, order tracking, and other inquiries.

In conclusion, the relaunch of intermedicaldirect.co.uk is a significant step for the company, as it aims to expand its reach and provide better service to its clients. The new website offers a comprehensive selection of medical equipment and supplies, easy online ordering, and reliable shipping. The company’s commitment to quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of the website, making it a top choice for anyone looking for medical supplies in the UK.

Preview of new Website

#Oxygenforindia: Intermedical sends over 2000 oxygen concentrators to India as it battles deadly 2nd wave of COVID-19.

At the time of writing, India’s battle with COVID-19 has reached its deadliest since the pandemic began. Peaking at 4000 deaths a day and a healthcare system on the brink of collapse, citizens in the country are resorting to the international community for help. In recent weeks, low oxygen supplies and in some cases hospitals completely running out have exacerbated the issue prompting a surge in demand oxygen concentrators.

Since the beginning of the 2nd wave in India, Intermedical have responded to calls for help working closely with a number of charities, private organisations and individuals

The team at Intermedical have worked tirelessly to source stock and have been working around the clock to test and pack every single device. Today, we are proud to announce that over 2000 oxygen concentrators have left our warehouse bound for India.

We are pleased that we’ve been able to play a small part in supporting the international efforts for India’s COVID emergency.

COVID-19: Do I need a pulse oximeter?

Since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic, we have learnt a lot about how it affects the human body and health in general. COVID-19 is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system with the potential to cause viral pneumonia.

A pulse oximeter is a cheap, simple yet effective way to monitor lung health. For patients who have tested positive for COVID may want to monitor their lung health and this can be done using a pulse oximeter.

It’s a non-invasive test that typically involves a small unit or sensor to wrap around a finger to measure the oxygen saturation in blood and pulse rate.

Oxygen saturation is measured in %SpO2. In a healthy subject, %SpO2 is expected to be anywhere between 95 to 99%, even at exertion. When levels drop below 90%, it is vital to be assessed without delay. The nature of the virus hinders the normal operation of our lungs that transfers oxygen to red blood stream. This in turn deprives vital organs of the oxygen it needs and if left untreated may result in death.

At the time of writing there is currently no cure although new treatments and drugs have emerged over time in a bid to reduce mortality rate. A vaccine produced by Oxford University as well as a few other candidates globally are currently going through last phases of clinical trials and are expected to role out as early as December.

WHO: 1 million COVID-19 cases a week. 620,000 cubic metres of oxygen a day.

A recent media briefing by WHO’s Director General has cited the huge demand for supplementary Oxygen as cases continue to grow at an exponential rate across the globe.

One of the most effective ways of saving lives is providing oxygen to patients who need it. 

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Oxygen therapy has played a vital role in treating patients with severe and critical COVID-19.

“This has been an area of intense focus for WHO since the beginning of the pandemic.

Patients with severe and critical COVID-19 cannot get enough oxygen into their blood by breathing normally. They need higher concentrations of oxygen and support to get it into their lungs.”

The majority of positive COVID-19 cases have reported mild to no symptoms at all. Patients with severe symptoms that are left untreated can deprive cells and organs of the oxygen they need, which ultimately leads to organ failure and death.

With hospitals reaching capacity, the demand for Oxygen is outstripping supply with some reporting they are “running out”.

Countries across the world are experiencing difficulties in obtaining oxygen concentrators.

Medical oxygen is produced using oxygen concentrators, which extract and purify oxygen from the air. According to the WHO, it is estimated that at 1 million new cases a week, the world needs about 620,000 cubic meters of oxygen a day. This was reported in June. With the second wave of the virus now taking its toll, its inevitable that this number and demand for Oxygen concentrators will be higher.

Since the first wave of the pandemic, Intermedical have played a vital role in supporting our NHS as well as private patients with their Oxygen needs.

We are ready and fully stocked to accommodate an expected surge in demand as the second wave continues to grow across the UK.

SEE OUR CURRENT LIST OF OXYGEN CONCENTRATORS IN STOCK

Ref: https://www.who.int/dg/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-the-media-briefing-on-covid-19—24-june-2020

Coronavirus: Community oxygen tests ‘key to second wave’ with a home pulse oximeter

Dr Simon Barry, A respiratory clinical lead in Wales has suggested that “Oxygen levels in suspected coronavirus cases should be monitored in the community to help hospitals cope with a second wave of cases.”

Speaking to BBC NEWS in June, Dr Barry said early on in the pandemic it became clear reduced oxygen levels in the blood suggested a patient had Covid-19.

With flu and pneumonia set to add more pressure to the NHS as the winter sets in, it is suggested that more community monitoring would be needed in order to ease the pressure.

For the majority, people with coronavirus show mild symptoms, and sometimes none at all.

But more commonly, those who display low blood oxygen saturation levels are admitted to hospital with Coronvirus.

In healthy adults, saturation levels are expected to be between 94% and 99%, whereas those with Covid-19 can fall below 90% and require oxygen therapy and, in some cases, ventilation in intensive care.

Intermedical is the UK’s leading private respiratory care company that distributes oxygen therapy and monitoring equipment to the NHS as well as private individuals. Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have supported thousands of people providing essential and life-saving equipment for home nursing of the virus.

To see our range of Home Oxygen Concentrators, CLICK HERE

To monitor your oxygen levels, you can purchase one of our pulse oximeters HERE

Ref: BBC NEWS – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53136289