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Writer's pictureSea-Long Medical Systems

Hyperbaric therapy

Updated: Oct 31, 2024

What is Hyperbaric Therapy?

Hyperbaric therapy involves breathing in pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This allows your lungs to gather more oxygen than breathing pure oxygen at normal air pressure. Ultimately, this increased oxygen intake can promote healing and reduce inflammation in the body.





Understanding How Hyperbaric Therapy Works

Hyperbaric therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or chamber. When you breathe in oxygen under pressure, your blood can carry more oxygen to your body's tissues. This helps promote healing and fight infections. Hyperbaric therapy can treat various medical conditions, such as non-healing wounds, carbon monoxide poisoning, and decompression sickness. During a session, you will relax in the chamber as the pressure increases, and you might feel a fullness in your ears, similar to being on an airplane. The increased oxygen levels can stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and improve circulation, aiding in the healing process of damaged tissues.


Conditions Treated with Hyperbaric Therapy

Hyperbaric therapy is used to treat various medical conditions, including carbon monoxide poisoning, non-healing wounds, gas embolism, and radiation injuries. It can also be beneficial for conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers, thermal burns, and crush injuries. The therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or tube, which helps increase the oxygen levels in your blood to promote healing.


Benefits of Hyperbaric Therapy

In hyperbaric therapy, you breathe oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This can help your body heal faster by increasing the amount of oxygen your blood can carry. Some benefits of hyperbaric therapy include faster wound healing, reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and enhanced recovery from radiation therapy.


Different Types of Hyperbaric Chambers

Hyperbaric chambers come in various types, with monoplace and multiplace being the most common ones.Monoplace chambers can accommodate only one person at a time and are typically used in smaller clinics or hospitals. They are more common due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use.


On the other hand, multiplace chambers can hold multiple people simultaneously, making them suitable for treating multiple patients or providing care to a patient who needs assistance during treatment. They are usually found in larger medical facilities.


Safety Measures and Risks Associated with Hyperbaric Therapy

Hyperbaric therapy is generally considered safe when administered by trained medical professionals. However, like any medical treatment, it comes with potential risks. Some risks associated with hyperbaric therapy include barotrauma (injuries caused by changes in pressure), oxygen toxicity (exposure to high levels of oxygen), and fire hazards (due to the oxygen-enriched environment). To ensure safety during hyperbaric therapy, it is essential to follow strict protocols and guidelines, including screening patients for any contraindications, monitoring them closely during treatment, and maintaining the equipment properly.


Preparation for a Hyperbaric Therapy Session

Before going for a hyperbaric therapy session, you should wear comfortable clothes without any zippers or metal. Remove any jewelry, watches, or electronic devices, as they are not allowed inside the chamber. Do not apply lotion or oil on your skin before the session, and ensure that your bladder is empty. Also, have a light meal before the session to avoid feeling hungry or full during the therapy. Remember to inform the hyperbaric team about any medications you are taking and follow their instructions carefully for a successful session.


What to Expect During a Hyperbaric Therapy Session

During a hyperbaric therapy session, you will be asked to lie down on a comfortable table inside a clear chamber. The chamber will gradually increase pressure, like being inside a pressurized airplane cabin. You may feel a fullness in your ears, similar to when you are in an elevator or driving up a mountain. Once the desired pressure is reached, you will relax for the duration of the session. The sessions typically last between 60 to 90 minutes, during which you can listen to music, watch TV, or even take a nap. It is important to communicate any discomfort or concerns with the staff, as they will be monitoring you throughout the session. After the session is complete, the pressure in the chamber will gradually decrease back to normal.


Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

After hyperbaric therapy, it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for a smooth recovery. Stay hydrated to help your body adjust to the pressure changes it experienced during the treatment. Avoid intense physical activities immediately after the session to allow your body to rest and recuperate. Be mindful of any potential side effects such as fatigue or lightheadedness and consult your healthcare provider if they persist. Continuing to communicate with your healthcare team is crucial for a successful recovery process.


Conclusion: Hyperbaric Therapy as a Healing Solution

Hyperbaric therapy can be an effective healing solution for various medical conditions. It involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized room or tube to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. Research suggests that hyperbaric therapy can aid in healing wounds, reducing inflammation, and improving certain health conditions. Consult with medical professionals to determine if hyperbaric therapy is suitable for your specific health needs.

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