Introduction

You may have heard the term “oxygen concentrator” more frequently in recent years — especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But even beyond that, oxygen concentrators have become lifelines for patients with chronic lung conditions, post-surgery recovery, or long-term illnesses like COPD, heart failure, or cancer.

At Helping Hands, through our DiL SE program, we deliver oxygen concentrators to patients who need them — and can’t afford them.

But what exactly is it? And how does it help?

🫁 What Is an Oxygen Concentrator?

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that draws in air from the surroundings, filters out nitrogen, and delivers a steady stream of oxygen-enriched air to the patient.

Unlike an oxygen cylinder, it doesn’t run out or need refilling. As long as it’s connected to electricity, it keeps producing oxygen continuously.

📸 Image Placeholder: Close-up image of a typical oxygen concentrator machine

🏠 Who Needs It?

Doctors may recommend an oxygen concentrator for patients who:

• Have low blood oxygen levels (below 90% on pulse oximeter)

• Suffer from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Are recovering from lung infections or COVID

• Are in palliative care at home

• Experience frequent breathlessness or low oxygen saturation

“The doctor said my father didn’t need hospitalization — but he did need oxygen support at home. That’s when DiL SE came with the machine.” — Fatima, Kozhikode

⚙️ How It Works – In Simple Words

1. The machine pulls in air from the room

2. It uses filters to remove nitrogen

3. The remaining oxygen (up to 90–95%) is sent through a tube to the patient’s nose (via nasal cannula) or mask

4. The patient breathes easier — especially when they’re weak or in distress

Most concentrators have flow control, display screens, and alarms for safety.

📸 Image Placeholder: Diagram or infographic showing the oxygen concentrator flow

🔌 Benefits of Using a Concentrator

✅ Safe for home use

✅ No refilling needed

✅ Runs on electricity

✅ Low maintenance

✅ Portable options available

✅ Reduces dependency on oxygen cylinders

For families, it means peace of mind at home, and for patients, more rest and less panic.

💸 Why DiL SE Matters Here

Oxygen concentrators cost anywhere from ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 — far beyond the reach of many low-income families.

Our DiL SE program:

• 💨 Delivers oxygen concentrators to eligible patients for free

• 📦 Trains caregivers on usage and cleaning

• 🔁 Rotates each unit across multiple homes every year

• ♻️ Ensures safe recovery at home and reduced hospital stays

🙌 How You Can Help Someone Breathe Easy

• 🫁 Donate an Oxygen Concentrator – ₹20,000

• 🧽 Support Refurbishment & Maintenance – ₹2,000/unit

• 🔋 Sponsor a Power Backup Unit for oxygen use during outages – ₹7,500

🔗 Contribute to DiL SE

Closing Note

An oxygen concentrator may look like a simple machine.

But for someone gasping for breath — it’s the difference between fear and comfort, between hospital and home.

With DiL SE, and with your support, we’re putting this lifeline into the hands that need it most.

Because dignity should come with every breath.