From the Research
Oxygen supplementation is not generally recommended as a treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or general chronic fatigue. There is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of supplemental oxygen for chronic fatigue in individuals with normal blood oxygen levels 1. Oxygen therapy is primarily beneficial for people with documented hypoxemia (low blood oxygen) due to conditions like COPD, severe asthma, or heart failure.
Key Points to Consider
- For most people with chronic fatigue, addressing underlying causes such as sleep disorders, depression, anemia, thyroid dysfunction, or other medical conditions is more effective than oxygen supplementation 2, 3.
- Some patients with chronic fatigue may have normal blood oxygen levels despite feeling fatigued, and in these cases, oxygen therapy would not address the root cause of their symptoms 4, 5.
- If you're experiencing chronic fatigue, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and targeted treatment of the underlying causes rather than pursuing oxygen therapy without medical indication.
Recent Study Findings
A recent study published in 2021 found that oxygen supplementation during exercise improves leg muscle fatigue in chronic fibrotic interstitial lung disease 1. However, this study's findings may not be directly applicable to individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome or general chronic fatigue without underlying hypoxemia.
Clinical Recommendations
In clinical practice, the focus should be on identifying and treating the underlying causes of chronic fatigue, rather than relying on oxygen supplementation as a treatment. A thorough medical evaluation and diagnosis are essential to determine the best course of treatment for individuals experiencing chronic fatigue.