Are you considering hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as a potential treatment option for your specific health and wellness needs?
If so, this article could be very helpful to you as we’ll talk about five factors one must know before going for HBOT sessions.
Well, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a fascinating and promising approach that has gained significant attention in recent years. This is an alternative treatment that enhances the body’s natural healing abilities by increasing the oxygen level.
In the early 20th century, hyperbaric oxygen therapy was pioneered by physician Orville Cunningham. In the United States, Cunningham developed one of the earliest hyperbaric chambers to administer pure oxygen to a critically ill patient suffering from severe flu, with the intention of saving the patient’s life.
Today, hyperbaric chambers are used to treat or alleviate a number of clinical and sub-clinical conditions.
The FDA has approved HBOT as a treatment for fourteen medical conditions and disorders, including:
If your healthcare provider has recommended hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it is important to understand the procedure fully. This knowledge will help you feel more at ease and contribute to achieving the best possible results.
Before you jump into the hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions, there are five important things you need to keep in mind:
It’s important to talk to your doctor before your scheduled HBOT session.
If one develops any conditions such as high blood pressure, a cold, cough, fever, or flu-like symptoms just before their therapy session, their doctor may need to reschedule the appointment.
This is because undergoing HBOT with these conditions could potentially harm one’s inner ears, which can be affected by blockages from a cold or fever.
Pure oxygen can interact with some medications, possibly changing how they work.
Before starting hyperbaric oxygen therapy, your doctor may suggest you stop using certain medicines for a while, such as topical ointments for wounds.
If you regularly take specific medications, it’s a good idea to discuss them with your physician before your HBOT session.
A typical hyperbaric oxygen therapy session lasts between one to two hours. This usually includes about 90 minutes of oxygen intake with two 10-minute air breaks.
The number of HBOT sessions may be adjusted based on the severity of the individual’s condition. Patience is key, as the process is designed to follow a specific procedure for optimal results.
As your treatment begins in the chamber, you may experience a sensation of your ears popping due to the increasing pressure. This feeling is similar to what you might experience when flying in an airplane.
Don’t worry! The medical staff overseeing your therapy are well-trained and follow strict rules to minimize any discomfort or risk of fluid buildup in your ears.
Some patients find hyperbaric oxygen therapy a bit tiring. A few people report mild discomfort or mild pain in their sinuses and ears, but these effects usually don’t last long and go away within a few hours or a couple of days. If you feel very uncomfortable or stressed, it’s best to talk to your doctor.
The limited space of the chamber might trigger feelings of claustrophobia in some people, causing anxiety. Other sensations, such as numbness in the fingers or changes in vision, are also temporary and typically resolve after the session.
Additionally, some people may feel restless due to the increasing pressure and the intake of pure oxygen.
While HBOT is generally safe, there are rare cases of serious side effects, such as seizures or lung collapse. This is more likely in people with emphysema who have air-trapped in blisters. However, these cases are extremely rare, and there’s no need to worry too much about such reports.
The effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been consistently proven for a variety of medical conditions and disorders.
Before starting an HBOT session, it is highly recommended that you take the time to address any questions or concerns with your attending physician. This discussion ensures that you fully understand the therapy, its benefits, and any potential side effects, allowing you to proceed with confidence and clarity.
Your physician can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health needs and medical history, ensuring the therapy is tailored to your individual requirements.
