Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment where pure oxygen is breathed within a specialized chamber at increased atmospheric pressure. This environment allows the body to absorb significantly more oxygen than under normal conditions, enhancing natural healing processes and addressing various medical conditions.
How Hyperbaric Therapy Works
The principle behind HBOT is Henry’s Law, which states that the amount of gas dissolved in a liquid is directly proportional to its partial pressure. In a hyperbaric chamber, increased atmospheric pressure dramatically raises oxygen’s partial pressure, dissolving more oxygen directly into the bloodstream’s plasma.
While red blood cells normally carry most oxygen, HBOT significantly increases oxygen dissolved in plasma, independent of hemoglobin. This dissolved oxygen can reach areas with compromised blood flow or oxygen deprivation, promoting healing and cellular function.
Impact on the Central Nervous System
HBOT influences the brain and spinal cord through several mechanisms. Increased oxygen delivery to areas with reduced blood flow helps oxygenate compromised tissues, such as those affected by stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI). This supports cellular repair and enhances neuronal activity.
The therapy also reduces inflammation within the nervous system. Elevated oxygen levels can reduce swelling and promote blood-brain barrier integrity. HBOT stimulates angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels, improving nutrient delivery to damaged areas. It also promotes neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections, aiding recovery from brain injuries and neurological conditions like cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis.
Other Recognized Applications
Beyond its effects on the central nervous system, HBOT is a recognized treatment for various medical conditions. It is the definitive treatment for decompression sickness, commonly known as “the bends.” Carbon monoxide poisoning is another approved indication, where HBOT helps clear carbon monoxide from the bloodstream more rapidly.
The therapy also enhances the healing of chronic non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, by increasing oxygen delivery. Other conditions include severe anemia when blood transfusions are not possible, certain severe infections like gas gangrene, and compromised skin grafts or flaps. It also aids recovery from delayed radiation injuries and crush injuries.
What to Expect During Treatment
During an HBOT session, patients enter a specialized chamber, which can be either a monoplace chamber designed for a single person or a multiplace chamber that accommodates several individuals. In a monoplace chamber, the patient lies in a clear, tube-like structure, while in a multiplace chamber, patients may sit or lie down and breathe pure oxygen through a mask or hood.
As the chamber is pressurized, patients may experience a sensation similar to changes in ear pressure felt during flying or diving, which can be equalized by yawning or swallowing. A typical session usually lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. During this time, patients can often relax, read, listen to music, or watch television. Patients are typically asked to change into specific clothing for safety before entering the chamber.
Safety and Important Considerations
While generally safe, HBOT does carry potential side effects and considerations. Common side effects include temporary ear pressure or pain, similar to what is experienced on an airplane, and temporary changes in vision, such as nearsightedness, which usually resolve after treatment. Some individuals may also experience fatigue after a session.
More serious, though rare, risks can include oxygen toxicity, which may manifest as seizures, or lung collapse, known as pneumothorax. Untreated pneumothorax is an absolute contraindication for HBOT. Other relative contraindications or conditions requiring careful evaluation include severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), recent ear or sinus surgery, high fever, and claustrophobia. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine suitability and ensure appropriate medical supervision throughout the treatment.