Your Whole Health: Lincare Learning Center

Are you or someone you know undergoing oxygen therapy? While this form of treatment can greatly benefit those with respiratory issues, it can also cause discomfort due to dryness in the nose, mouth, and throat. However, with a few simple measures, you can make your oxygen therapy experience more comfortable and less irritating.

As a caregiver, caring for a loved one can be selfless and rewarding. However, it can also lead to neglecting one’s own needs, resulting in physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Caregiver burnout is a real concern that needs to be addressed. In this blog, we will discuss some effective strategies for managing caregiver burnout and prioritizing self-care.

The Lincare team is excited to announce our new Patient Portal is Now Live! As always, our staff is committed to providing the best customer service and care available. The Patient Portal will help you better manage your treatment with everything you need in one place.

These instructions provide step-by-step details, with images, to assist you with the registration process of Lincare's Patient Portal.

These instructions provide step-by-step details, with images, to assist in recovering your username and/or password in Lincare's Patient Portal.

Discover practical advice and helpful tips on navigating the role of a caregiver. Find the support and guidance to make the journey smoother and provide better care for your loved ones.

QR codes, also known as Quick Response codes, have gained popularity in recent years due to their ability to store large amounts of information in a small space. This invention was created in 1994 by a Japanese company called Denso Wave.1 Many businesses, including Lincare, have started utilizing QR codes to enhance their service and improve customer experiences. In this blog, we will explore how Lincare is using QR codes and how they can be beneficial for both the company and our patients.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms but can inflict serious damage to our health if left untreated. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of recognizing and managing hypertension to prevent the potential consequences it can have on our overall well-being.

Our lungs are incredible organs that have a vital role in our respiratory system. They allow us to breathe in oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, enabling our bodies to function properly. Understanding how our lungs work and how to care for them is essential for maintaining good respiratory health. In this blog, we will dive deeper into the intricacies of the lungs and provide some tips on keeping them healthy.

Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the much-talked-about “donut hole.” This coverage gap can significantly impact patients’ prescription drug costs, causing confusion, stress, and financial strain. In this blog, we aim to shed light on the Medicare donut hole, clarify its implications for patients, and offer essential tips to manage this temporary healthcare coverage gap effectively.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that affects a significant portion of the population. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment is considered the gold standard for managing OSA and minimizing its associated cardiovascular risks. However, a recent article published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) highlighted the crucial role of adherence to CPAP treatment in lowering the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events among OSA patients. This article will explore the key findings presented and discuss the implications for healthcare providers and OSA patients.

The holiday season is a joyful time of year for many, filled with festivities and gatherings. For individuals with a respiratory condition, it may require some extra preparation and precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday experience. In this blog post, we have put together a helpful checklist to assist respiratory patients in navigating the holiday season with ease. Let’s make sure you have a healthy and enjoyable holiday!

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic respiratory illness that affects the lungs, causing breathing difficulties and other respiratory symptoms. People with COPD often experience exacerbations or flare-ups during the cold weather. If you or someone you know is living with COPD, here are some tips and strategies to help cope with the condition during the cold months.

If you have ever gone to the doctor with a respiratory ailment, chances are that you have undergone spirometry testing. Spirometry is a simple and widely used tool for assessing lung function. In this article, we will explore what spirometry testing is, how it is performed, and its significance in managing lung health.

Oxygen Concentrators are medical devices that may be rented or sold and require a valid prescription1. Whether you are a medical professional or someone in need of supplemental oxygen, it is important to understand the basics of oxygen concentrator equipment. Here we will provide a beginner's guide to the oxygen concentrator.

High-Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation (HFCWO) therapy is an innovative treatment method that aims to improve lung function and respiratory clearance in patients with various respiratory conditions. Although HFCWO therapy is an effective approach to managing chronic lung conditions, there are misconceptions about HFCWO therapy and how it works.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. It includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD affects approximately 16 million Americans.1 It is essential to understand the different stages of COPD to identify the disease progression, manage symptoms effectively, and receive appropriate care.

Sleep disorders like Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) can significantly impact a person’s well-being and overall health.1 Traditional methods of diagnosing these conditions involve spending a night at a sleep lab while connected to various monitoring devices with professional oversight throughout the study. With new technological advancements, a patient now has the option to conduct Home Sleep Testings (HST) in the comfort of their own homes. Let’s explore the benefits and processes of home sleep testing.

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) is a widely used tool to measure daytime sleepiness in individuals. It consists of a simple questionnaire asking individuals to rate their likelihood of falling asleep in various real-life situations, such as watching TV, sitting, reading, or sitting in a car while stopped for a few minutes in traffic.

Dealing with Original Medicare denials can be frustrating and overwhelming, but it is important to remember that you have options. In this short article, you will gain a basic understanding of Original Medicare denials, and insights into the appeals process. This article outlines the specifics of Original Medicare, also known as Traditional Medicare or Fee-For-Service Medicare and does not apply to any Medicare Advantage Health plans. Let’s dive in!

Breathing exercises can benefit individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by improving lung function, reducing breathlessness, and increasing oxygen intake.1 These exercises can help strengthen the respiratory muscles, improve the efficiency of breathing, and promote better airway clearance. By practicing breathing exercises regularly, individuals with COPD can enhance their lung capacity and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms.

For individuals with sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy can play an essential role in improving sleep quality and improving your overall health. However, it is important to understand that maintaining the effectiveness of CPAP therapy requires proper cleaning and regular supply replacement. Let's look at what you need to know to keep your PAP device functioning at its peak performance.

Learn how to effectively clean and maintain your CPAP supplies with our expert tips and resources. Keep your equipment germ-free and extend its lifespan with proper cleaning techniques. From daily maintenance to deep cleaning, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step. So, breathe easy and get the most out of your CPAP equipment with our help.

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and need to begin using a PAP machine, choosing the right PAP mask is one of the most important factors to consider. It can be daunting, especially with the variety of options available in the market today. However, selecting the right mask is essential for comfort and effective therapy. Considering your sleeping position while choosing a PAP mask is crucial, as this can significantly impact your overall experience.

Powered mobility devices have been transforming the lives of many individuals with mobility impairments. These devices, which include powered wheelchairs and scooters, are designed to help people gain independence and improve their health-related quality of life. From social engagements to increased physical activity, there are numerous benefits to using power mobility devices.

As we age, we become increasingly vulnerable to medical emergencies and falls.

Lincare provides travel assistance with your oxygen as one of our essential services to our existing oxygen patients. To travel safely with portable oxygen or to ensure a stationary unit is available at your long-term destination, it's important to coordinate with your local center to plan your travel arrangements. We will assist you in coordinating with local Centers along your travel route.

Chronic respiratory failure is a condition that makes it difficult for your body to maintain normal oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. Many diseases may contribute to chronic respiratory failure, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), thoracic restrictive diseases (TRD), and neuromuscular diseases (NMD). Non-invasive ventilation may assist with minimizing symptoms associated with these respiratory disorders and assist with improving your health-related quality of life.

Discover what to expect during a PAP class. Our expertly designed PAP classes can connect you with other users who share in your challenges and experiences, providing you with a valuable educational experience. Join our PAP class today and take the first step towards better sleep and a healthier, happier you!

Handwashing is crucial for maintaining health and preventing the spread of diseases. Proper hand hygiene can help reduce the risk of infections and diseases, especially those that can be transmitted through hand-to-hand contact. It is essential to know the right techniques for washing your hands to get the best protection.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common but serious disorder characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to low oxygen levels in the blood.

May is Better Sleep Month, a time to focus on the importance of good sleep habits and the role they play in our overall health and well-being. Getting enough sleep is essential for both physical and mental health, and it can have a significant impact on our daily lives.

As a parent, it is never easy to see your child struggling to breathe.

An oxygen conserving device (OCD) regulator is a medical device that attaches to an oxygen tank and can help patients conserve the amount of oxygen they are using in place of a traditional oxygen flow regulator. OCDs are particularly useful for people with respiratory illnesses such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, or other lung diseases that affect the body’s ability to take in oxygen.

As your sleep therapy partner, we celebrate all you do in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which affects one in every five Americans.

While many of us love our furry friends and cannot imagine our lives without them, it is important to keep in mind that they do pose a threat to your home medical device. If your device is not stored properly or placed out of reach from your pet, your device could be at risk. Cords could be chewed; devices could be knocked off of lower tables or your device could be covered in pet hair or slobber.

Whether it's a hurricane or severe thunderstorm that knocks your power out, the effects it can have on your continued use of your home medical device, if not prepared properly, can be problematic.

Have you ever had a question about how to use your home medical device? Maybe even how to clean your device? You're not alone. When operating and maintaining your device, it is common to have questions.

Lincare's Remote Connected Care® helps healthcare providers detect patient health problems early, improving diagnostics and early intervention.

Early intervention is critical in preserving the cardiac health of at-risk Americans. A cardiac monitoring device allows your practitioner to record your ECG in order to diagnose abnormalities. These devices enable you to be monitored at home, while maintaining your normal daily activities.

Oxygen Therapy presents an effective treatment option that can help relieve and manage symptoms, and make meaningful contributions in the lives of individuals with symptoms of various respiratory conditions - both acute and chronic, requiring oxygen therapy on either long or short-term basis.

There is no question that living with congestive heart failure can be challenging. Your heart must work harder to pump more efficiently and prevents your body from circulating the proper oxygen and nutrients needed to remain healthy.

With millions of children suffering from respiratory disorders in the United States, recognizing the signs and symptoms in children and infants can help.

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) draws out fluid and bacteria from a chronic wound to help it heal. Your practitioner might recommend NPWT if you have a wound that either has not healed or has worsened over several weeks.

Sleep should be a time for recharging your body. However, when you suffer from sleep apnea, that can be challenging. CPAP and Bilevel devices are proven to help you breathe better while you sleep and alleviate your apnea symptoms. Still, it can take time to adjust to sleeping with a CPAP machine.

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices can help those diagnosed with autism who are nonverbal or minimally verbal improve their expressive communication. Explore how AAC devices for autism can help people of all ages.

A well-balanced diet is crucial to maintaining good health and promote healing when you are sick.

For many of us, undergoing treatment for a very serious but manageable illness means finding the best provider for your needs. As we understand patient’s needs may vary, we encompass a collective approach to ensure that the burden of obtaining your medication is lifted. 

Explore what Bilevel is and if this form of sleep therapy may be more suitable for you.

Early intervention is critical to patient well-being.

Communication is key to closing the gap between healthcare providers and patients.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory disease that blocks airflow in your lungs. It makes breathing difficult and can prevent your body from getting the oxygen it needs. 

The symptoms of COPD are usually constant and can slowly progress over many years. Learn about the common symptoms and risk factors of COPD.

Because it can be difficult to cough up mucus—especially with a weakened cough reflex—it is important to drink enough fluids to keep your mucus thin and loose. Check with your practitioner to determine how much fluid you should drink daily to keep your cough effective.

A simple cough during your day hardly warrants a second thought but coughing up blood with mucus should give you pause. It can be a frightening experience, especially if it has never happened to you before.

If you are like most people, the thought of setting up a ventilator in your home may cause some anxiety. What exactly is a ventilator? How big is it? What happens when you are on a ventilator? These questions are typical for those learning about home ventilation care.

It’s pretty safe to say that anyone who’s familiar with the world of discharge planning from a skilled nursing facility is acutely aware of the obstacles that skilled facility and nursing home discharge planners face on a daily basis.

Individuals with COPD can receive several benefits from proper nutrition. Depending on your condition, it can also influence the severity of COPD, so be sure to ask your practitioner which foods are best for you. Changing your eating habits will not cure COPD, but it can help you feel better mentally and physically.

Heart disease is one of the leading health problems affecting Americans. Millions of people take anticoagulants such as Warfarin to protect their hearts and reduce the risk of blood clots and heart attacks.

Whether you have COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, or another respiratory condition, nebulizers are an effective way to administer respiratory medications. 

Staying healthy is more important than ever for patients with chronic lung diseases. Some every day rules to help you stay healthy and minimize the risk of exposure to viruses and infections include washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, sanitizing between washes, quit smoking, caring for your teeth and gums, avoiding germs, and considering vaccinations like the flu shots. There are even more considerations you may not have thought of to help you stay healthy.

In today's world, undergoing oxygen therapy doesn't mean remaining housebound. With a range of portable oxygen treatment devices now available, you can carry your supply with you wherever you go, including in the air. 

At Lincare, when we contact our patients via telephone or portal about treatment and/or reimbursement (billing), we always ask you to verify two unique identifiers of your protected health information (PHI). That helps safeguard your privacy and ensure you get the best care. Correctly identifying you is the first step in delivering the safest treatment possible.

Home oxygen therapy is an effective therapy option for a variety of chronic respiratory conditions.

Navigating Your Statement.

Disease management programs hold the promise of putting practitioners and patients back on the same page.

Few things can interrupt your health as much as insufficient oxygen levels. Every cell in your body requires it, and many different issues can make it difficult for you to breathe and circulate enough oxygen.

You have probably noticed when shortness of breath occurs in an athlete during periods of exercise—they tend to blow the air out of their mouths by puffing out their cheeks . You may have also done this when you’ve exerted yourself. This is a normal response to shortness of breath, and it provides for a quick and easy way to improve breathing patterns.

The following relaxation techniques can help relieve the tension and anxiety that can accompany difficulties with breathing.

If you use a CPAP machine to help your sleep apnea, irritation caused by allergic reactions can significantly disrupt your therapy. While certain allergies can impact you year-round, others are seasonal and can hit you hard at particular times of the year. 

Managing sleep apnea using a CPAP machine involves getting the device's pressure right and ensuring it fits comfortably. Throw springtime allergies into the mix, and you face a new set of challenges.

If you suffer from sleep apnea, you need to understand CPAP usage compliance and insurance requirements for your treatment. 

Patients with respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema often enter long-term care (LTC) facilities to receive the support they need.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a disorder that interrupts your breathing repeatedly- potentially hundreds of times-while you sleep. Common symptoms include snoring, headaches, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty paying attention.

Cardiac health is among the top concerns of healthcare providers in the United States. 

Enteral Nutrition Therapy refers to the utilization of a feeding tube to deliver nutrition directly into the stomach or small intestine when a patient is unable to get adequate nutrition and hydration by mouth but still has a functioning gut.

Hospitals provide care in an acute environment. Due to advancements in healthcare, at-home non-invasive ventilator care is now readily available and an effective option for patients.

Whether your practitioner has given you a prescription or you're researching possible treatments for a respiratory problem, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the essentials of nebulizer therapy, also sometimes referred to as nebulization therapy.

If you suffer from a chronic wound, such as a diabetic ulcer or pressure ulcer, your practitioner might recommend treating it with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). This guide explains what negative pressure wound therapy is and how it can help. 

Receiving a respiratory disease diagnosis can be life-changing. These conditions are common and often debilitating to those who suffer from them. Fortunately, oxygen therapy is an effective treatment option that can help control the symptoms of respiratory illness.

Continue reading to learn more about oxygen therapy, including how it works, who may benefit from it, and best practices for treatment.

Heading out on vacation is supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable. But for those who use a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, traveling with their device can be an unnecessary source of stress. Fortunately, traveling with a CPAP does not have to be complicated. All you need is a little extra planning and preparation to ensure your trip goes smoothly. 

Signing up for Medicare at 65 is a standard process for many Americans, particularly those already retired. As you approach the enrollment period, you will likely have questions. It is essential that you understand the process and how switching to Medicare can save you time, energy, and, in certain instances, money.

If you recently began taking a blood thinner and completing regular INR testing, the prospect of traveling can be intimidating. Being far from your practitioner could be worrisome when it comes to your heart health. However, with today's advanced healthcare technology, mobile INR testing is a readily available and accessible solution. With an INR monitoring kit, you can track your levels anywhere.

Sleep apnea can be frustrating and disruptive, especially if left untreated. Fortunately, CPAP machines provide an effective treatment to help you breathe better during the night and relieve the side effects caused by sleep apnea.

Start with short walks to strengthen your breathing and walking muscles.

If you are at risk for heart disease, your practitioner might recommend using a Holter heart monitor to test your cardiovascular health. Learn how a Holter monitor works and what it can do to help your cardiovascular health.

Your lungs consistently produce mucus. Production of mucus by your lungs , which is commonly amplified by respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchiectasis, or neuromuscular diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Cerebral Palsy. Mucus is essential to helping our bodies fight infections and inflammation. However, too much mucus in our airways can trap harmful bacteria, make it hard to breathe and successfully take inhaled medications.

Keeping your COPD under control requires ongoing effort. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to manage it. 

Dozens of respiratory and neuromuscular diseases impact millions across the United States. If you are one of those affected, you know how difficult it is to
breathe freely and live life to the fullest with these conditions. They can cause mucus build-up in the lungs, blocking the airways and impeding treatment. One effective home therapy for clearing your lungs and improving your breathing is high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO).

Anticoagulants help reduce the risk of blood clots and heart attack but increase your risk of complications such as bleeding or stroke. Performing regular PT/INR testing from home can help you manage and prevent these dangerous side effects.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can be frustrating to live with, but it is a highly treatable condition.

Modern healthcare must evolve to meet the changing needs of patients and long-term care facilities.