Posted by John B (130.13.67.226) on March 14, 2001 at 06:20:52:
In Reply to: I'm worried about O2 posted by Dania on March 13, 2001 at 20:51:03:
Be careful not to fall asleep while breathing 100% oxygen. There are two reasons. If you are using the correct kind of mask, when the oxygen is gone (tank is empty) you may suffocate, as a correct mask will not allow any outside air to be inhaled. Also, falling asleep will have you breathing the pure oxygen for longer than you should.
If you observe this precaution, and breathe pure oxygen for only 15-20 minutes at a time (it only takes me 5 minutes) there should be no damage to your lungs. This advice is from many doctors I have seen.
One other precaution - oxygen will make steel wool burn like a flashbulb. Your clothes, bedclothes, hair, etc., will all burn in a flash when covered and surrounded with pure oxygen. KEEP AWAY FROM SPARKS AND FLAME when using oxygen. Don't let people with cigarettes anywhere near you.
Be safe, and it is the most wonderful remedy.
LYG
John B