What is a common misconception about supplemental oxygen use?

The belief that it is harmful to breathe oxygen is a common misconception. In reality, supplemental oxygen is an essential medical therapy for many patients, particularly those with respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or conditions leading to hypoxemia. Oxygen therapy is designed to increase the levels of oxygen delivered to the lungs and subsequently to the bloodstream, improving overall oxygenation and supporting cellular function.

It is important to understand that while oxygen therapy can have risks if misused or administered without proper oversight — such as potential fire hazards or oxygen toxicity in very high concentrations — the controlled use of supplemental oxygen is generally safe and often life-saving. Thus, the misconception arises from a misunderstanding of the therapeutic role of supplemental oxygen in clinical settings. Proper dosing and adherence to guidelines can mitigate risks, making it an important tool in managing respiratory conditions.