Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has been around for quite some time. In recent years, it has become an increasingly common practice in the world of medical treatments and health-supporting therapies, with far-reaching benefits. For many, it is a life-changing treatment that has been a game-changer in their health and physical condition.
Many conditions can benefit from the treatment. HBOT is being used as a supporting therapy and its benefits are well-documented. Many people are surprised to discover that this modern, alternate therapy, has been around for over 100 years.
HBOT can be used for an extensive range of illnesses, including long-term, degenerative or age-related diseases, and is useful for promoting accelerated healing. The increase of normal oxygen levels in the body promotes healing and benefits to the lymphatic system and nervous system.
The therapy increases the amount of oxygen that blood can transport through the body to vital organs, tissues, and muscles. Improved oxygen levels lead to reduced levels of inflammation, improved immunity and faster healing and can support mental clarity, physical health, and well-being.
Along with being used as a health-promoting treatment, HBOT has also been adopted as a performance-enhancing therapy by athletes, gymnasts, and other competitors. HBOT has also been used in the management of:
- Heart Disease
- Brain Injury
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Arthritis
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Autism
- Fibromyalgia
- Chronic Illness
- COPD
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer’s
- Stroke
- Cerebral Palsy
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
Research is ongoing, finding new treatment options and indications for HBOT. There have been early indicators that HBOT may be an early intervention treatment for victims of Long Covid.
Common Q&A about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen your blood can carry, promoting healing by enhancing tissue repair and fighting infection.
In an HBOT chamber, the air pressure is increased up to three times higher than normal. This allows your lungs to gather more oxygen, which is then carried through the bloodstream to help heal damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.
HBOT is commonly used to treat conditions like decompression sickness (from diving), chronic wounds (like diabetic ulcers), carbon monoxide poisoning, radiation injuries, and severe infections such as gangrene. Some also use it for off-label treatments like stroke recovery or traumatic brain injury.
Generally, HBOT is considered safe when administered by trained professionals. However, like any medical treatment, there are potential risks, such as ear pain, sinus issues, and in rare cases, oxygen toxicity or lung damage. Always consult a healthcare provider before undergoing HBOT.
A typical session lasts between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the condition being treated. Multiple sessions are often required, with some treatment plans involving 20-40 sessions over several weeks.
During the treatment, you may experience a feeling similar to the pressure changes when flying in an airplane or diving underwater. You might need to “pop” your ears to equalize the pressure. Otherwise, the process is generally comfortable.
HBOT is generally safe, but it may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as untreated pneumothorax (collapsed lung), or those who have had recent ear surgery or infections, should avoid HBOT. Always consult a doctor to assess your eligibility.
Most patients tolerate HBOT well, but some side effects can occur, such as ear discomfort, sinus congestion, or mild fatigue. In rare cases, more severe side effects like oxygen toxicity or lung damage can occur, but these are uncommon.
For certain conditions, such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and chronic non-healing wounds, HBOT is often covered by insurance. However, off-label uses like anti-aging or cognitive enhancement may not be covered. Check with your provider for details.
The number of sessions depends on the medical condition being treated. For chronic wounds or infections, 20-40 sessions may be recommended, while acute conditions like carbon monoxide poisoning may require fewer treatments. Your doctor will tailor the treatment plan to your needs.