FAQs About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment. This allows oxygen to dissolve into the bloodstream at higher levels, which accelerates the healing process and promotes tissue repair.

During an HBOT session, you enter a specially designed chamber where the air pressure is increased to 1.5 to 3 times greater than normal atmospheric pressure. This pressure forces oxygen to dissolve into the blood plasma (the liquid part of the blood) and other bodily fluids rather than relying only on red blood cells to carry oxygen.

With more oxygen available in the blood, it is carried throughout the body, reaching tissues that may not get enough oxygen due to injury, infection, or poor circulation. This accelerates the healing process and promotes tissue repair.

HBOT is a versatile treatment that supports healing, recovery, and overall well-being. The primary benefits of HBOT include:

• Faster healing of chronic wounds and injuries
• Reduced inflammation and swelling
• Strengthen immune function
• Improved recovery after surgery or trauma
• Increased collagen production
• Improved circulation
• Emerging research suggests benefits for conditions like TBI and PTSD.
• Enhanced brain function and cognitive repair, especially in cases of stroke or brain injury
• Effective treatment for chronic conditions such as Lyme disease and sports injuries

Yes, HBOT is generally very safe. It’s done in a controlled environment with licensed medical personnel to make sure you’re comfortable and well cared for during your treatment. Our staff ensures that each treatment follows safety protocols, including:

• Monitoring oxygen levels during the session
• Regular inspections and maintenance of hyperbaric chambers
• Qualified medical personnel on-site
• Pre-treatment screenings to ensure the patient is suitable for HBOT

The FDA has approved HBOT for the following conditions:

• Decompression sickness
• Chronic non-healing wounds
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Radiation injury
• Crush injuries
• Severe anemia
• Acute ischemic stroke
• Infection (such as gas gangrene)

Yes, many patients undergo HBOT for conditions not currently FDA-approved but supported by clinical research. These include:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for autism
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for brain injury
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for stroke recovery
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for Lyme disease
• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Sports Injuries
• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy After Surgery

While these treatments are not FDA-approved, they are considered by many medical professionals to be beneficial in improving overall health and healing.

The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated. On average, patients may require anywhere from 20 to 40 sessions, each lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. We’ll create a treatment plan specifically for you.

Most patients describe HBOT as a comfortable and relaxing experience. During the session, you will feel the pressure inside the chamber, similar to the sensation of descending in an airplane. You may also experience slight ear popping as the pressure changes. Once the chamber reaches the desired pressure, you will simply breathe normally.

Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing perfumes, lotions, or jewelry. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol 24 hours before your session.

Inside the hyperbaric chamber, you’ll be seated or lying down, depending on the type of chamber used. During your session, you can relax, watch TV, listen to music, or simply rest.

We utilize both monoplace and multiplace chambers. Monoplace chambers accommodate one patient at a time, while multiplace chambers can treat multiple patients simultaneously.

Side effects are rare but may include ear discomfort, temporary vision changes, and fatigue. Our team monitors patients closely to manage any potential side effects.

HBOT is generally safe for most people, but some individuals should avoid it, including:

• Those with untreated pneumothorax (collapsed lung).
• Individuals with certain types of heart conditions, like congestive heart failure (CHF), without physician approval.
• Pregnant women, unless specifically recommended by a doctor.
• People who have had recent ear surgery or have active ear infections.

A thorough evaluation will determine if HBOT is right for you.

Coverage for HBOT varies by insurance provider and specific conditions. Generally, FDA-approved conditions are more likely to be covered. We recommend consulting with your insurance company to understand your coverage.