Crown Princess Mette-Marit's Breathing Aid: What's Happening Now – and How It Works in Daily Life

It's not every day we see Crown Princess Mette-Marit with visible signs of her underlying condition. But when the pictures emerge, as they did recently, it still moves most people. I have followed the royal family closely for over twenty years, and I can tell you this much: what we are seeing now – with the breathing aid as a constant companion – is a new chapter. Not because anything drastic has changed overnight, but because the openness surrounding the equipment leaves a real impression on all of us.

Why Mette-Marit needs a breathing aid

For those wondering why this device has suddenly become so visible, it comes down to the pulmonary fibrosis diagnosed several years ago. This is a chronic condition affecting lung tissue, meaning the body sometimes needs extra support to maintain healthy oxygen levels. It is a breathing aid that delivers concentrated oxygen, and it is far less dramatic than many might think. In fact, many people use similar equipment in their daily lives without it being talked about as openly.

A guide to how it works in practice

Let me give you a short guide because I know many are curious about how this actually works. The device Mette-Marit uses, often referred to as a portable oxygen concentrator, is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. Unlike the large, stationary units you see in hospitals, this one is small enough to fit in a small bag or be carried over the shoulder.

• Portability: It typically weighs under 2–3 kg and can run on battery for several hours.
• Use during activity: Many people use it precisely when going for a walk, standing for long periods, or in situations involving physical exertion – just as we saw with the Crown Princess.
• Noise level: Modern machines have a low fan noise, so you hardly notice it during a conversation.
• Empowerment: Rather than being a hindrance, the device provides the freedom to take part in activities you might otherwise have to decline.

There is a mette marit breathing aid review that often comes up in online discussions: Is it bothersome? Does it look strange? But if you flip the perspective, it is really about empowerment. Using a device like this gives you the freedom to attend events you might otherwise have to miss.

Reactions: From shock to understanding

I remember well when the first images emerged. There was a collective reaction among people. "Poor thing," many thought. But among those with experience of this type of condition, the reaction was quite different. There, it was more a sense of respect. Because in those circles, the breathing aid is not a symbol of weakness, but of strength. Standing there with your head held high, even with tubes and a device, it changes how we view vulnerability in the public eye.

If she had looked sicker, the reactions would probably have been different. But the point is that by using this aid, she avoids becoming overly exhausted. It is part of the new normal, and frankly, it is high time we normalise that even prominent figures use the aids they need.

The bigger picture

When speculation swirls about guest lists and public appearances, it is easy to forget the human story behind it. But what seems like a news story to many is, for the Crown Princess's family, simply part of their reality. What makes such a strong impression on us outsiders is perhaps not the device itself, but the openness. This how to use mette marit breathing aid effect – that she actually shows us how it is used in real life – is immensely valuable for anyone in the same situation.

I think we will see more of this going forward. Not because the condition is dramatically worsening, but because it has become a natural tool in everyday life. And for those of us following along, it is simply about getting used to the new normal. After all, that is what Mette-Marit does best: showing us how to face adversity with a dignity that feels genuine.