Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or HBOT, uses pressurized chambers to help individuals breathe in 100% pure oxygen. The increased air pressure in the chamber forces more oxygen into the body, enabling it to penetrate deeper into organs and tissues. This allows for enhanced oxygenation, which can stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. If you’re considering hyperbaric chamber treatment, here’s what to expect from each session:
1. A Consultation With an HBOT Specialist
The first step is a consultation with a hyperbaric therapy professional to determine the condition you’re treating. You can expect the specialist to explain how the process works and its potential benefits. The specialist may ask about your medical history and other conditions that could affect the treatment. This is the time to express any questions or concerns to make sure you fully understand and are comfortable with the procedure. During your consultation, HBOT experts may recommend that you arrive to your appointment healthy with no cold, flu, or fever. They may also suggest avoiding certain medications, alcohol, and smoking for the treatment’s utmost effectiveness.
2. Preparation for the Session
Once you’ve been cleared and approved to use a hyperbaric chamber, your HBOT provider will give you tips for preparing you for treatment. Shower or bathe before arriving at your session, and avoid applying perfumed products. Perfumes and deodorants can react with pure oxygen, causing a chemical reaction in the chamber. Remove any items that could be potentially hazardous in an oxygen-rich environment, such as jewelry, watches, or electronic devices. Your treatment facility may give you a cotton gown to wear during your session.
3. Chamber Types
Depending on your chosen facility, you may have two main options for hyperbaric chamber treatment. Monoplace chambers are built to accommodate one person inside at a time. These chambers are made of clear acrylic material, allowing you to see out and feel more relaxed during treatment. Monoplace hyperbaric chambers are more private and allow for individualized medical attention. Multiplace chambers can accommodate several patients at once, and instead of filling the whole chamber with oxygen, the individuals use oxygen masks or hoods. Since pressure is usually lesser in these chambers, patients may be allowed to bring in books and phones.
4. Hyperbaric Chamber Treatment
For monoplace chambers, the HBOT specialist seals the door and gradually increases the pressure inside. As the pressure inside the chamber increases, you will start breathing in pure oxygen. The pressure increase can cause a sensation similar to flying or diving, where you may feel your ears pop. To equalize the pressure, you can swallow, yawn, or perform the Valsalva maneuver, which involves gently blowing through your nose while pinching it shut. This sensation should disappear after the desired pressure has been achieved.
5. Treatment Duration
When the chamber reaches the desired pressure, you can remain inside for 45 minutes to several hours, depending on your treatment plan and health goals. You can rest, watch a Td above the chamber, or sleep. HBOT chambers have communication systems that allow patients to communicate with the healthcare staff outside. If you feel any discomfort during the session, tell them immediately so they can advise you or adjust the treatment.
6. Decompression
When the recommended treatment time has elapsed, the hyperbaric specialist will begin decompressing the chamber. The pressure inside the chamber will slowly decrease until it matches the normal atmospheric pressure. You may feel a sensation in your ears as the pressure decreases, but that should go away quickly. The specialist will then open the chamber’s door and help you out. Many patients feel more energized and refreshed after their HBOT session.
7. Post-session Care
Once the treatment session ends, the HBOT specialist may want to discuss how you feel. Since hyperbaric chamber treatment is non-invasive, it usually doesn’t require recovery time, and you can resume your regular activities. Depending on your goals and treatment plan, you may need several sessions for effective treatment. Your hyperbaric specialist may recommend avoiding alcohol and smoking throughout your treatment sessions because they can cause blockages and hinder oxygen flow to various body areas. They may also suggest eating healthy meals and getting regular exercise for maximum treatment benefits.
Consider Hyperbaric Chamber Treatment
Hyperbaric chamber treatment can enhance healing and reduce inflammation for various medical conditions. It can help treat wounds, arthritis, anemia, psoriasis, depression, PTSD, and other health issues. If you believe you can benefit from hyperbaric oxygen therapy, consult a medical professional today for a personalized treatment plan.
