Posted by Ueli (195.162.170.201) on February 22, 2001 at 23:57:04:
In Reply to: thank you posted by jonny on February 22, 2001 at 22:16:55:
I urge everybody who has tried O2 in the past without success, to give it another try, using the proper setup this time.
Remember, O2 used at home is mostly done by people with respiratory diseases. For them air slightly enriched with oxygen will do the trick, and it is this set up that is often prescribed for Clusterheads too.
A few years ago, jonny tried oxygen using the standard issue nose cannulas, at a far too low flow rate. Not surprising, he didn't get any relieve. At our urging, he tried it once more, this time with a proper setup. And wow, it helps him too. No wonder he loves his O2 tank almost as much as P. :-)
Here once more the correct set up:
> Use a full face mask, without any additional holes around the inlet (these are intended to suck in air, diluting the O2). If your mask got these holes, close them with some sticky tape, but..
> The mask most suitable for Clusterheads is a non-rebreather type, with one-way valves and a reservoir bag (e.g. Salter Labs, Ref 8130).
> Use a high enough flow rate, 10 liters per minute or more. (With the non-rebreather mask 7 l/min will often do)
> It is important to to get to the oxygen at the very first sign, the sooner, the better are the results. (I use a very long hose, so on jumping up at night, I can do the visit the bathroom while already sucking O2.)
> Cooling the O2 may enhance its effect. Ask Kip about the cooling rig he invented.
> For some, doing exercises like squats or wight lifting while sucking O2 may speed thing up. If you have a rowing machine at home, use it. But beware, some people are triggered by execise.
Give oxygen a second chance, it's worthwhile, due to its lack of side effects and its relative low price.
Ueli