With the world still recovering from COVID-19, some aren’t bouncing back quite as quickly as their counterparts. We are referring to those struggling with the effects of Long COVID-19. But, even before COVID-19, other viruses carried long-term effects. Viruses like Epstein-Barr, chronic fatigue, Roseola, and others linger in the body and can be seriously damaging to physical and mental health. Some patients experienced memory impairment, depression, inflammation, cardiovascular symptoms, and more. Could there be treatments for these long viruses that have gone untapped? One such treatment is hyperbaric oxygen therapy. HBOT is being increasingly promoted as a treatment for lingering post-viral symptoms associated with these types of viruses.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or HBOT, is a therapy during which individuals rest in a pressurized chamber and breathe 100% oxygen, taking in up to 15 times more oxygen. This increased consumption of oxygen is highly beneficial to the body, offering immune system support, angiogenesis (the growth of new blood vessels), neurogenesis, improved circulation, and more.
How Does HBOT Improve Post-Viral Symptoms?
Some ways that HBOT improves persistent post-viral symptoms include:
- Improved Oxygenation of the Brain and Blood
Post-viral symptoms can include poor circulation and low oxygen in the tissue. HBOT can improve these symptoms, delivering increased levels of oxygen to the cells, blood, and tissues. - Restoration of Mitochondrial Function
Increasing oxygen levels in the body can improve mitochondrial function. This promotes the production of ATP and reduces fatigue. - Immune System Boost
Increased oxygen levels in the bloodstream also increase the number of T cells and other infection-fighting cells in the body. - Improvement of Circulation and Healing
The stimulation of angiogenesis forms new blood vessels and can repair cells that a viral infection has damaged. - Enhanced Recovery from Pain and Fatigue
HBOT has been proven to reduce fatigue and alleviate joint and muscle pain. - Stimulation of Neurotransmitters
One of the most common long-term effects of viruses is depression and anxiety. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is shown to stimulate and regulate neurotransmitters in the brain. This mitigates the release of chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. - Detox
HBO detoxes the cells and replaces the toxins with oxygen.
Conclusion
HBOT is increasingly popular among those suffering from the long-term effects of viruses. Thanks to this rapid and increased consumption of oxygen, patients are genuinely finding relief from these extended symptoms and are able to experience remarkable results and improvement in health.
Baromedical Associates
If you or a loved one is suffering from the long-term effects of a virus, it may be time to contact Baromedical Associates. We are the industry-leading clinicians in our field and provide a healing touch to our patients. We are readily equipped with the most streamlined, state-of-the-art facilities. Our hyperbaric oxygen chambers are comfortable and private, offering patients the chance to relax and benefit from the effects of intense oxygen treatment. For more information, contact us to request an appointment.
Sources:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-53091-3
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2024.1354088/full
