Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the medical use of high levels of oxygen – much higher than usual atmospheric pressures. In fact, oxygen pressure levels in this therapy are two and a half times the normal level in the atmosphere.
The point is to increase the oxygen levels in body tissues. This is the principle healing agent.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can effectively heal wounds by helping reduce blocked blood flow, by supporting the production of new blood vessels (to carry even more oxygen), and by enhancing the ability of white blood cells to kill harmful germs.
One chamber holds a single person has up to two entry hatches for entry. The hatches are sealed. The person lies down, relaxes, and the oxygen pressure in this glass cabin is pumped up.
There are also chambers that hold more than one person – and even a group of people sitting in chairs.
A nurse or other medical professional monitors the patients during therapy and makes sure that all the systems are performing correctly and safely.
Who’s it for?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is meant to treat an array of physical infirmities. Those with the following conditions could benefit from the heightened oxygen levels of this procedure: Decompression sickness, air embolism, carbon monoxide poisoning, blood loss, healing skin grafts, thermal burns, hearing loss, gas gangrene.
Benefits
Because it increases oxygen levels in the body, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can increase your body’s ability to carry oxygen to tissue, fight germs, and heal wounds.
Risks
Of course, there are risks. Such changes in pressure could cause a serious condition called barotrauma – that means injuries caused by pressure after the body was unable to re-acclimate from the pressure vessel back to normal atmospheric levels. Barotrauma can affect the lungs, behind the eardrum, and underneath dental fillings.
The Bottom Line
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been emerging as a great non-surgical procedure that promotes healing in the body. It is important to learn about the risks posed by the significantly high pressure involved in this therapy.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
