Guide To Treating Superior Vena Cava Syndrome

Supplemental Oxygen

While not treating the underlying cause, supplemental oxygen is often administered to provide relief for some of the respiratory symptoms of superior vena cava syndrome. These include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, chest pain, and coughing. Upon testing, the patient may present with a low blood oxygen level due to their circulatory constriction. Normally, these symptoms do not pose an immediate threat, but they do add discomfort and stress to the patient. In the long term, low blood oxygen levels can affect the health and functioning of the entire body. Supplemental oxygen delivered via nasal cannula can help regulate blood oxygen levels and bring them back to normal. Patients whose blood flow is not severely constricted frequently respond very well to elevation and oxygen therapy.

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