Phoiph
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posted
The fabric content is not an issue with home chambers, as it is with commercial chambers that are pressurized with and/or using 100% medical grade 02.
I mentioned cotton, as it is a natural fiber and people are generally less reactive to it. You can use whatever is most comfortable for you.
The gauge extender is purchased through Oxyhealth...
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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posted
Geez Phoiph, there you go being bossy and controlling again.
Welcome Fatjack, keep us posted!
SusanK, I'm excited for you even though I know it's pretty complicated getting set up.
I'm rather chemically sensitive and just got myself a new mask for the oxygen concentrator, and whew! it gives me a bit of a headache. Just a heads up for when you get it, susank, let the mask air out a bit before you start using it!
Posts: 96 | From USA | Registered: Sep 2013
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susank
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posted
I just did a trial non-dive. I got in the chamber. Sheesh. It does not have a frame. (I did not think I wanted one anyway). Deflated - it was like wrestling with an alligator. I am so weak - and my muscles/joints hurt so badly - doing the zippers was a bit rough. Of course I did not zip them all the way. I def. wish it could be a foot or two off the floor.
Interesting - when I was unzipping - preparing to get in - I saw something inside. At first I thought it was a dead scorpion. ??? So of course I reached in and picked up the "object".
It's some kind of gemstone. A pink opal I think - mounted on what looks like silver..
I will let the prior owner know about this in case he wants it back. (I hope he doesn't!).
Pink opals are said to have healing powers?
The guy I got this chamber from is pretty special. That he would perhaps be holding an opal in the chamber would not surprise me. Hoping that would also not be an "in chamber" no-no?
Sorry - tired - rambling.........
-------------------- Pos.Bb culture 2012 Labcorp - no bands ever Igenex - Neg. 4 times With overall bands: IGM 18,28,41,66 IND: 23-25,34,39 IGG 41,58 IND: 39 Bart H IGG 40 Posts: 1613 | From Texas | Registered: Aug 2009
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Phoiph
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 41238
posted
Spinning123...just my nature, I guess...LOL!
SusanK...the reasons for using a frame, is that it takes MUCH less time to fill the chamber, makes it easier to get in and out, and keeps it from resting on you while its being inflated.
I know of someone who built their own frame out of PVC for their Solace. I can put you in contact with them if you like.
Otherwise, a frame and mattress from Oxyhealth cost $300. each.
Please contact me about the gauge...I will give you info.
The chamber would not be fully inflated until it reaches 4.2 PSI on the gauge.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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posted
Susank, I have the frame from Oxyhealth inside of my Solace and it can inflate in 3-4 minutes, although I typically take longer than that to go easier on my ears. The frame keeps it off of my face when I get inside, which is nice, although it still falls down on top of my legs.
Update, I am 45 dives in. I had a lot of symptom relief for my first 3 weeks (less brain fog, better energy), then have had a lot of herxing over the past three weeks. Am hoping that it is just a temporary cloud before I get a few more sunbeams.
Posts: 64 | From Washington | Registered: Aug 2015
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posted
I think tossing a sheet over an unzipped chamber sounds like a great idea. I leave mine unzipped after use because humidity often builds up during dives. I have my chamber in an unused extra room so I just usually close the door.
Posts: 42 | From beautiful Texas Hill Country | Registered: Jun 2015
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Phoiph - I purchased a Summit to Sea Shallow Dive E-Series Chamber and an Airsep 10L oxygen concentrator. Getting my (open) mask soon. I have had 5 dives so far. Almost fell asleep in it yesterday. I have an alarm to wake me up now.
Posts: 2 | From United States | Registered: Feb 2016
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Phoiph
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Member # 41238
posted
Hi fatjack...
Great!
FYI...I'm sounding like a broken record again, but you've probably already read that when using with a chamber, it is important to keep the LPM setting on an AirSep no higher than 8-8.5 LPM. (Otherwise, it may go into an "on demand" mode rather than continuous flow...)
Also, you may already know to be sure to always have your concentrator "ON" when there is pressure in the chamber, otherwise backflow could damage it...
Are you going to be using the open OxyMask from Southmedic?
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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How would you know if the concentrator went into On Denand mode?
Thanks!
Posts: 120 | From Maine | Registered: May 2015
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Phoiph
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Member # 41238
posted
Monti...
I'm not sure if you could tell when you're inside the chamber and the concentrator is on the outside, but the unit will pulse the 02 instead of continuously flowing.
The vendor has told me that it is not something the reps or the manufacturer mention in their manual, but the engineers have informed him, and so he puts a warning in every unit he sells for use with a chamber.
It is of particular concern when in use with a hyperbaric chamber, as the unit has more demand placed on it due to backpressure from the chamber. It is not a design flaw, but a conservative measure to preserve oxygen purity and flow/LPM.
Other brands without this feature, such as the SeQual, will automatically drop the flow/LPM to compensate for the backpressure.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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Thanks for the info. So could it be damaging to the concentrator or is the concern more that you wouldn't receive as much 02?
I set mine at 8.5 and occasionally think maybe it's not producing as much air. Then it seems to produce plenty again. Almost like it goes into in demand mode and then out of it again. I wonder how much of it is my imagination. Maybe I could have my wife come down and look at the lpm meter when I am suspicious of it happening? Would she see the level fluctuate if it was in that mode?
Thanks, Monti
Posts: 120 | From Maine | Registered: May 2015
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Phoiph
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posted
I don't think you'd see it fluctuate, because that is the whole point...to keep the 02 and the LPM consistent.
There could be other factors at play that cause the unit to work harder, such as temperature and humidity, so you could set it at 8.0 if you have doubts.
The concern would be that there is no need to make the machine work harder, it could affect its longevity...and also it is better to get a consistent flow of oxygen for our purposes.
Remember that these machines weren't created to be used with a hyperbaric chamber. The AirSep has 20PSI, however (one of the highest for home use), and is a great unit and may or may not ever have to go into this mode (even over 8.5 LPM)...it is just a precaution, since people usually want to set it at 10, thinking "more is better".
The SeQual (7.2 PSI) works differently; it should be set at 10LPM and allowed to drop down during the dive (without someone turning the LPM back up on the outside). It will rise to 10 again once the chamber deflates.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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I posted up my new video with my updates. Wow, what a difference a year makes😊👍
Phoiph, I haven't talked with Dr B about my results, someone else from her office called with my results. I plan to meet up with her soon to chat and see what she thinks and what's next.
posted
Peimomma, congratulations, that is awesome. Thanks for making the videos, they are so exciting to see. You look great.
Posts: 64 | From Washington | Registered: Aug 2015
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posted
How do you clean the filters on the air compressor? How often do they need to be cleaned?
Posts: 64 | From Washington | Registered: Aug 2015
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Phoiph
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 41238
posted
Peimomma...
Thanks for the awesome update! Very happy for you...I know how great life can be on the "other side", and glad you are experiencing that! FYI...I improved a lot between year 1 and 2...even though at the time I didn't realize there was still much healing to be done...it more subtle ways.
Jcarlnew...I was advised to clean the chamber with a solution of 1/2 hydrogen peroxide (over the counter strength), mixed with 1/2 water. You could also use this to clean your mask.
Jolley...It depends on your situation...I was told that the compressor filters (not oxygen concentrator) don't need to be cleaned very often (maybe every few months), but if you have pets, you will need to clean them more frequently.
With the Oxyhealth compressor, you would unscrew the 2 round black filters from the compressor, then (this can be difficult), twist the halves apart. There is a paper filter inside that you can carefully dust off.
The filter on the oxygen concentrator, on the other hand, should be cleaned more frequently. Remove the square mesh filter from the back of the unit, clap between your hands outside, wash with soapy water and rinse well, dry overnight.
SusanK...
The tubing is not sterile...the ends should be left open.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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Phoiph
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posted
Susan...
The frame is metal, not plastic.
A mask is more effective than a cannula. It off-gasses in a few days by putting it outside in the shade.
If you absolutely can't tolerate a Simple Hudson Mask, an "open mask" is an alternative. They are more comfortable, but I personally find them more difficult to off-gas.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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You asked how do those of us that don't use extenders see the gauge? I don't, we timed how long it took me to pressurize the chamber in the beginning and we used that plus however many minutes you are treating that day. For me it's always been 60 minutes plus pressurize time from the beginning, but I'm an exception to the rule.
Thanks Monti,
How goes your treatment after nearly a year? I hope you are getting to the point you are noticing some improvements.
Phoiph,
Thanks for the reality check concerning continued improvements over the next 10 months. It's hard to believe life will get better than what it is today, but I certainly look forward to total restoration and healing.
Posts: 233 | From AZ | Registered: Jan 2015
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Thanks for asking Progress has been hard to see. Phoiph and I were talking and long story short we discovered my original used oxygen concentrator was not working properly. I do not know how much 02 it was delivering, how long it began to malfunction, and if the malfunction was consitent or not.
So I purchased a new unit about 3 weeks ago and promptly experienced sever fatigue from using it. I'm pretty sure it was a good old fashion herx which was a great sign. It lasted almost 10 days.
So let's see what the next year brings me. I believe it will be helpful. I really do.
Posts: 120 | From Maine | Registered: May 2015
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posted
Monti, what happened on the other side of your 10 day herx? I've tried to add supplemental oxygen a couple of times but have gotten discouraged by the overwhelming exhaustion. I wasn't convinced it was something I should just try to push through.
Posts: 42 | From beautiful Texas Hill Country | Registered: Jun 2015
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The herx basically went away as fast as it came on.
It's recommended (as im sure you know) that you build up to the full hour dive with 02. The way I originally did it was I started doing only 20 minutes dives with 02. After a couple weeks and once I felt like my body had adjusted to it I increased to 25 minutes. I kept making increases as I felt I was able (roughly every 2 weeks).
That required me to push myself some. I was anxious to get to the full hour and as soon as I felt my herx symptoms relaxing I would increase by just 5 minutes.
So jumping forward almost a year, once I discovered my used 02 concentrator wasn't working at full potential I decided to start off at the full hour as a test to see if it gave me a herx. I was hopeful it would since that would suggest my lack of improvement was due to a faulty 02 concentrator.
Once it became apparent that I was herxing I almost backed down since the fatigue was significant. But I decided to ride it out since I felt I could deal with it and wanted to really be sure it was a true herx and not something else. This was proof to me that my old 02 unit wasn't delivering 02 as it should have been.
The faulty unit was not one that has been encouraged to use on this thread. It just happen to come with my used chamber.
Posts: 120 | From Maine | Registered: May 2015
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kgg
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 5867
posted
Did the frame not come with allen screws or set screws? Mine are little black ones that are used in my frame.
The filter and O2 tubing sit inside the circle of the frame in my chamber.
Posts: 1770 | From Maine | Registered: Jun 2004
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susank
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 22150
posted
Working to get the frame in. Was not sent an Allen wrench.....the little black thing..............to connect the pieces. Should that have come with the frame?
-------------------- Pos.Bb culture 2012 Labcorp - no bands ever Igenex - Neg. 4 times With overall bands: IGM 18,28,41,66 IND: 23-25,34,39 IGG 41,58 IND: 39 Bart H IGG 40 Posts: 1613 | From Texas | Registered: Aug 2009
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kgg
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posted
It has been so long since I put mine together I don't remember if it came with it or I had it already.
Posts: 1770 | From Maine | Registered: Jun 2004
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susank
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Member # 22150
posted
Got it done. Sheesh - that was not easy. It took my engineer neighbor about an hour. Thankfully he had an Allen wrench - so now I know what that little thing is. You would think that little 20 cent item would come with the frame......... Getting closer to testing everything.....
PS - Yes came with "set" screws. Again - thank goodness my neighbor knew how to do all this - as the Respiro vid. makes everything look easy. Again - mine is a Solace.
-------------------- Pos.Bb culture 2012 Labcorp - no bands ever Igenex - Neg. 4 times With overall bands: IGM 18,28,41,66 IND: 23-25,34,39 IGG 41,58 IND: 39 Bart H IGG 40 Posts: 1613 | From Texas | Registered: Aug 2009
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kgg
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posted
Kudos for getting it done!
Posts: 1770 | From Maine | Registered: Jun 2004
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posted
Monti, thanks for the input. Today was my dive #100. Instead of my usual hour with pressure only, we hooked up the O2 concentrator again. I did 25 minutes with mask just laying aside. Think I'll see how this goes for a few days and get in touch with Phoiph to discuss how to proceed. I got out today feeling ok but I sort of missed having my whole hour in the chamber and the routine I've developed of meditating, stretches and arm exercises.
Susank, good on you for getting chamber together!
Posts: 42 | From beautiful Texas Hill Country | Registered: Jun 2015
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posted
Interesting. I just got a low CO2 result which means I am low in carbon dioxide.
At first, I thought it was because of my oxygen, but did a little research and doesn't have anything to do with it.
Sounds like the lower your CO2 the lower your oxygen is... so I hope what I am doing is helping. I am not sure how to fix this, but thought I would post that it is important to have the right level of CO2 in your blood!
I am at 142 dive with 57 of those being full one hour dives.
I still get lovely short times of feeling good, but I can't say anything substantial.
I definitely am more brain foggy, and forgetful. not sure if it is oxygen caused or disease progression.
Phoiph, (or any other dear oxygen breathing soul)
my oxygen concentrator, for a little bit wasn't giving me oxygen. Then it would sort of work again... a few times it shrieked at me so I got out and made sure there were no kinks in the hose.
It stopped yelling, but I sometimes wonder if it is giving me the full amount of air I should be getting? I sometimes think the air isn't blowing as strongly as it was through my mask. I turned it up a leeeetle bit (not much phoiph) and it helped a leeeetle bit I THINK.
Monti's experience made me say something about it. I would hate to waste time... so precious!
Posts: 477 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Nov 2015
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Does your doctor think low CO2 could be caused by your diving? This site has alot of good info on HBOT. Maybe you can contact them and ask that question?
Phoiph
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 41238
posted
Foxy loxy...
You should have your concentrator checked. Contact an oxygen supply/equipment company that services concentrators, and they can use a meter to check purity, output, etc. Sometimes they will do this for no charge if you bring the unit to them. Remind me...what model do you have?
About your low C02 blood levels...what was your PH reading?
SusanK...The compressor switch is on the cord. Where did you get your frame? If from Oxyhealth, you can let them know it didn't come with a tool, and they will send you one.
Also...Please give me a call or email so we can set up a time...
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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posted
Soccermama, I don't know. I haven't seen my Dr. yet. I tried to research it and all I found is that low CO2 is NOT good.
I couldn't find anywhere that oxygen makes it worse though only that if you are low in carbon dioxide you aren't using the oxygen right that you breathe etc.!
Phoiph, I don't know what my PH reading is. I guess that wasn't checked, but I imagine I will. Do you know if extra oxygen can cause this?
My concentrator is an Airsep brand... the good one. It is supposed to be new too. Maybe, I am just anxious for nothing...
Posts: 477 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Nov 2015
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posted
Foxy, how do you test CO2? Blood pH stays very, very constant or we would die. Saliva and urine ph fluctuate but I do not believe blood ph will?
Posts: 42 | From beautiful Texas Hill Country | Registered: Jun 2015
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Phoiph
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
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posted
Foxyloxy...
The relationship between the carbon dioxide and the PH levels of the blood can indicate different conditions.
I don't think your low C02 levels are related to mHBOT...but do let us know what your doctor says.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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posted
Thanks Phoiph for that info. I have been on tetracycline for a while and that may be the cause as it can lower bicarbonate levels.
Toyswalk, the test was a blood test. I must say that is sounds pretty important to have be normal!
Last night I again really thought about my concentrator. I just don't think it is giving my enough air. It used to blow into my eyes and bother me, and it doesn't anymore.
I think I will try to get someone to look at it! Sigh... I HATE equipment problems...oh and if I crank it to max... it suddenly puts out a LOT... but only when it is maxxed out does it seem to make a difference in a lot more oxygen output.
Posts: 477 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Nov 2015
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That sounds similar to what started happening with my concentrator. What really clued me in on the problem was that the lpm would start off at a good level and by the end of the dive when I climbed out of the chamber it was about 2 lpm less. It shouldn't do that.
Posts: 120 | From Maine | Registered: May 2015
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posted
Monti, thanks for chipping in here. SO what ended up being the problem?
The guy I am borrowing this from stared at it this morning and peeked at its guts. He couldn't find anything wrong, but thinks too It might not be giving as much air.
I called the company, and she said they would bill me if nothing is wrong.
I do have someone that said they would check it and see what is wrong but won't repair it. I think I will get it checked, but it is quite a hassle to find someone to fix it/look it over.
One lady thought it might be a fan problem?
Posts: 477 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Nov 2015
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The next logical step to repair my unit would be to replace the media that helps filter the 02. I can't remember what it's called now but is was close to $500 to get it replaced and assuming it fixed it I still would own a concentrator that provided 7 lpm instead of 8lpm and around 90% O2 instead of 93% O2 like the Air SEP. So I decided to just buy a brand new Air Sep and be done with it all.
I don't think the problem is a fan. What they had me do is get a spray bottle of soapy water and spray all the internal parts along the air line where connections were to check and see if air was leaking. It wasn't.
Then they had me take apart a fitting and clean a diaphragm. That didn't help either.
Then they said the next thing to do was change that expensive media. That's when I decided to get a better unit.
Posts: 120 | From Maine | Registered: May 2015
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posted
oh deeear Monti... that wasn't good. I don't know enough to try soapy water tricks, and I am afraid I will ruin it:(
My concentrator is supposed to be new, so assume it is under warranty. But I could tell the company didn't want to fix it.
The lady said "as long as it isn't smoking..." I thought, gracious! does it have to be smoking in order not to work??
I did have it tucked in a corner and the lady said it does NOT like to be next to walls. So maybe I will try this first. before lugging it around to get checked. grrrrrrr
Posts: 477 | From Pennsylvania | Registered: Nov 2015
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posted
Foxy and Monti, now you two have got me all worried about my concentrator...
I'm going to check the lpm when I climb out of the chamber tomorrow, thanks Monti for your input.
Foxy, sometimes I have the same feeling about how the air flow used to bother my eyes but now it doesn't so much... I wonder if it's my mind playing tricks on me. I'm not good with assembling and disassembling equipment..
Posts: 96 | From USA | Registered: Sep 2013
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Phoiph
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 41238
posted
Foxy loxy...
If your AirSep is new, it should have a 3 year warranty.
As I mentioned, an oxygen supply/repair company will usually pick it up from you for a fee...but likely will not charge you if you bring it in if they are just checking PSI and 02 output.
I'm not sure why your alarm went off (possible kinked hose, lack of clearance around the unit, or power fluctuation). The alarm warns you that the 02 purity has fallen below 80%.
What do you have the LPM set at? Are you keeping the filter clean?
AirSeps are very reliable units; it is probably fine...checking it is just a precaution.
Posts: 1984 | From Earth | Registered: Jul 2013
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posted
Lol foxy, no I'm glad it was brought up. Good to be aware of possible problems.. I think mine is good! I hope you get your concentrator sorted out soon. Gotta get that O2! Posts: 96 | From USA | Registered: Sep 2013
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Phoiph, why is the amount of LPM important? Monti mentioned that his concentrator puts off 7 LPM as opposed to 8. Why is that concerning?
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not sure if it is oxygen caused or disease progression.![[dizzy]](graemlins/dizzy.gif)
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