Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Unveiling The Power Of Pressurized Healing

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a remarkable medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment. It has long been recognized as the gold - standard treatment for decompression sickness, a perilous condition that scuba divers may encounter. But its applications extend far beyond that, making it a versatile and essential tool in modern medicine.​

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?​

In a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, the air pressure is cranked up to 2 to 3 times higher than normal. This unique environment allows your lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen than what's possible when breathing pure oxygen at regular air pressure. The surplus oxygen not only battles bacteria but also stimulates the release of growth factors and stem cells, which are key players in the body's natural healing processes.​

Conditions Treated by HBOT​

HBOT is used to address a wide range of medical conditions:​

Infections and Circulatory Issues: It's effective against serious infections and can resolve bubbles of air in blood vessels, known as arterial gas embolism.​

Wound Healing: For those suffering from nonhealing wounds caused by diabetes or radiation injury, HBOT can be a game - changer. It also aids in the recovery of burns and supports the survival of skin grafts or flaps at risk of tissue death.​

Neurological and Other Conditions: It helps with conditions like brain abscess, crushing injury, sudden deafness, gangrene, and even certain cases of severe anemia. Additionally, it's a crucial treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning and decompression sickness.​

Why It Works​

Tissues in our body rely on oxygen to function properly, and injured tissues demand even more. HBOT increases the oxygen - carrying capacity of the blood. Through repeated sessions, it restores normal tissue oxygen levels, promoting long - term healing even after the treatment concludes.​

Potential Risks​

While generally safe, HBOT does come with some risks:​

Ear and Eye Issues: Changes in air pressure can cause middle ear injuries, like fluid leakage or eardrum rupture. Temporary nearsightedness may occur due to changes in the eye lens.​

Lung and Nervous System Complications: There's a risk of lung collapse (barotrauma) and seizures resulting from oxygen toxicity in the central nervous system.​

Other Concerns: For diabetics on insulin, it may lead to lowered blood sugar. In rare cases, the oxygen - rich environment of the chamber can pose a fire hazard.​

Preparation for HBOT​

Attire: You'll be provided with hospital - approved gowns or scrubs to wear during the procedure.​

Prohibited Items: To ensure safety, items that generate heat, such as lighters or battery - powered devices, are strictly prohibited. Petroleum - based hair and skin care products also need to be removed due to fire risks. Your healthcare team will offer detailed instructions on preparation.​

During the Therapy​

Chamber Types: There are two main types of hyperbaric chambers. Monoplace units are for individual use, where you lie on a table that slides into a clear plastic chamber. Multiperson chambers resemble large hospital rooms, allowing you to sit or lie down and receive oxygen via a mask or hood.​

Session Details: The therapy typically lasts around two hours. The increased air pressure may cause a temporary ear fullness, similar to what you feel during air travel. Yawning or swallowing can relieve this discomfort. Throughout the session, healthcare professionals will closely monitor you and the therapy unit.​

After the Therapy​

Post - Treatment Checks: After each session, the therapy team will conduct a series of checks, including ear examinations, blood pressure and pulse measurements, and blood glucose checks for diabetics.​

Recovery and Results: You may feel tired or hungry post - treatment, but it doesn't restrict your activities. To see significant results, multiple sessions are usually required. The number of sessions varies depending on the condition, ranging from just three for carbon monoxide poisoning to 40 or more for nonhealing wounds. HBOT is typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other therapies and medications tailored to your specific needs.