If you’re like most people, you probably think of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as something only used by athletes or celebrities seeking an edge in their performance or appearance.
But did you know that HBOT has many other benefits as well? In this post, we’ll take a look at twelve of those necessary benefits. From treating wounds and infections to boosting brain function and reducing stress levels, HBOT can do wonders for your health.
So if you’re considering trying it out, read on to learn more about what HBOT can do for you.
Let’s get started!
What is HBOT?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a treatment that involves breathing oxygen in high purity in a pressurized chamber. This increased pressure allows your lungs to absorb more oxygen than they would at normal atmospheric pressure.
The extra oxygen can help to speed up the healing process, fight infection, and reduce inflammation. Hyperbaric chambers are usually large enough for a person to lie down in, and sessions typically last for around an hour or two.
Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Here are thirteen of the most well-known benefits of HBOT,
1. Increases tissue oxygenation
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can increase the amount of oxygen that your tissues receive. This is because the pressurized chamber allows your lungs to take in more oxygen than they would at normal atmospheric pressure.
2. Increases blood flow and circulation
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions by increasing blood flow and circulation. One study found that HBOT was able to improve blood flow in users with peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition characterized by narrowed arteries.
3. Boosts white blood cell counts
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to increase white blood cell counts. White blood cells are important for fighting infection and helping the body to heal. HBOT is known to increase the number of white blood cells in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
4. Enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can increase the effectiveness of antibiotics. This therapy is able to increase the cure rate of patients with MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infection.
5. Treats Bone infections (osteomyelitis)
This treatment can also be used to treat bone infections. It’s very effective in treating osteomyelitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the bone.
6. Helpful in Frostbite Treatment
Frostbite is a condition that occurs when the skin and tissues are exposed to extreme cold. The tissue freezes and can lead to permanent damage. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for frostbite by improving blood flow and reducing tissue damage.
7. Reduces Swelling and Inflammation
It also helps reduce swelling and inflamed tissues. Dissolving more oxygen into the tissues and fluids can help bring down the swelling. This is often used as a treatment for sports injuries, as well as other conditions that cause inflammation.
8. Boosts Immune System Function
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps in increasing the production of white blood cells and killer T-cells, which are essential for fighting infection. This boost in immunity can protect the body against diseases and viral attacks.
9. Stem Cell Mobilization
The stem cells are responsible for repairing damaged tissue and organs. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps to mobilize the stem cells from the bone marrow into the bloodstream, where they can be more easily accessed by the body. This process can help to speed up the healing process and repair damage more effectively.
10. Plays a Vital Role in Treating Cancer
HBOT is often used as a complementary treatment for cancer. It helps to increase oxygen levels in the body, which can kill cancer cells. It also helps to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
11. Treats Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help treat carbon monoxide poisoning by increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood and helping to remove the carbon monoxide from the body.
12. Fights Fungal and Bacterial Infections
This treatment can also be used to fight fungal and bacterial infections. The therapy is able to kill bacteria and fungi by increasing the amount of oxygen in the tissues. It is often used to treat diseases such as Lyme disease, tuberculosis, and Crohn’s disease.
Some Important Tips For HBOT
If you’re considering hyperbaric oxygen therapy, there are some important things to keep in mind. Read on!
-
Equalize Ears
If you have any diving experience, then you know how important it is to equalize your ears. The same goes for HBOT! Before each session, make sure to equalize the pressure in your ears by using a yawning or Valsalva maneuver.
-
Don’t arrive sick to the appointments
If you’re feeling sick, it’s important to reschedule your appointment. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy with an illness actually makes some of it worse, so it’s best to wait until you’re feeling better before coming in for a treatment.
-
Pregnant women should consult their doctor
If you’re pregnant, it’s important to consult your doctor before starting HBOT. While the therapy is generally safe, there’s a small chance that it could harm the baby.
-
Expect to be there for a few hours
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments usually last for around two hours. However, you should plan to be at the facility for a few hours in total. This includes time for prep and recovery.
-
Food and Medication After Treatment
You might be wondering what you can eat and drink before and after sessions. In general, it’s best to stick to light foods and plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol for at least eight hours after and before sessions
If you’re taking medication, be sure to check with your doctor before starting HBOT, as the therapy can interact with some medications.
Conclusion
HBOT offers a wide range of potential health benefits, which is why it has become so popular in recent years. We hope you’ve found this article helpful and informative as you explore the possibility of HBOT treatment for yourself or a loved one. If you have any questions about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy or would like to schedule a consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!