For which condition is supplemental oxygen primarily indicated?

Supplemental oxygen is primarily indicated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because patients with this condition often experience significant airflow limitation and decreased oxygenation due to the destruction of lung tissues and chronic inflammation. In COPD, particularly during exacerbations or when patients exhibit hypoxemia, the use of supplemental oxygen is crucial for maintaining adequate oxygen saturation levels and preventing complications such as respiratory failure.

For patients with COPD, oxygen therapy can be life-saving, contributing to improved exercise tolerance, sleep quality, and overall quality of life. It is essential to monitor oxygen levels in these patients to ensure they do not reach excessively high levels, which can lead to carbon dioxide retention and worsen their condition.

While supplemental oxygen can also be beneficial in asthma, acute bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis under certain circumstances, it is not the primary treatment for these conditions. Asthma management often focuses on bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory medications, acute bronchitis typically resolves with supportive care and does not require oxygen unless there is significant hypoxia, and cystic fibrosis management includes airway clearance techniques and specific medications rather than solely relying on supplemental oxygen. Thus, for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease specifically, the indication for supplemental oxygen is more pronounced and essential.