Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. HBOT has been used for decades to treat a variety of conditions and is growing in popularity as more and more people discover its benefits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at HBOT, including how it works, what to expect during a session, and what conditions it can help treat.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works
HBOT works by delivering oxygen at high pressure to the body, which helps increase the amount of oxygen that reaches damaged tissues. When a person breathes in pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, their blood absorbs more oxygen, which is then carried to the body’s tissues. This increased oxygen delivery can help speed up the healing process and reduce inflammation.
What to Expect during a Session of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Before a HBOT session, you’ll need to remove any clothing or jewelry that might restrict your movement in the chamber. You’ll then be asked to lie down in the chamber and put on a mask that delivers pure oxygen. The pressure in the chamber will then be increased gradually to the appropriate level for your treatment.
A typical HBOT session lasts for about one hour, during which you’ll simply relax and breathe normally. It’s important to note that HBOT is completely safe and non-invasive, and there are no known serious side effects. However, some people may experience mild side effects such as ear pain or sinus pressure during the treatment.
Indications for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
HBOT is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including wounds that are slow to heal, non-healing diabetic ulcers, and carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s also been used to treat a range of other conditions, including sports injuries, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and radiation injuries.
Choosing a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center
When choosing a HBOT center, it’s important to look for a center that has qualified and experienced staff, as well as a well-maintained and properly equipped chamber. You may also want to consider the location of the center, as well as its hours of operation and whether it accepts insurance.
Conclusion
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a safe and effective way to deliver more oxygen to the body, helping to speed up the healing process and reduce inflammation. If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of HBOT, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable center near you. With more and more people discovering the benefits of HBOT, it’s an exciting time to be learning about this innovative treatment.