Understanding Hyperbaric Therapy

Understanding Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygenation; Hyperbaric Therapy; Hyperbaric Medicine; HBOT; HBO2

Pronounced: hi-purr-BEAR-ick ox-a-jen the-ra-pee

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% oxygen in a sealed chamber. This concentration is five times higher than the normal air we breathe. The chamber is also pressurized to create 1.5 to 3 times normal atmospheric pressure. These changes can improve blood circulation and the blood’s ability to deliver oxygen to the body.

Reasons for Hyperbaric Therapy

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been used to treat many health problems, including:

• An air bubble (embolism) which gets into the circulatory system and blocks blood flow
• Decompression sickness, which can occur when divers or miners come to the surface too quickly
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Wound healing, especially in patients with poor circulation
• Radiation therapy injuries following treatment for cancer
• Skin grafts, flaps, or burns

What to Expect During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Prior to Procedure

• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Bring a book or an activity that you can do in the chamber.

During Hyperbaric Treatment

You will lie down on a padded table, which slides into a tube. This is called a single-person hyperbaric chamber. In some cases, hyperbaric chambers may be large, holding more than a dozen people.

A technician will gradually pressurize the chamber with 100% oxygen. You will be able to talk to this person. While in the hyperbaric chamber, you will be instructed to:

• Relax and breathe normally.
• If your ears pop or you have discomfort, tell the technician. She may be able to lower the pressure.
• Swallow or blow with your nose pinched to relieve discomfort.

After getting to the right pressure, place a clear plastic hood or mask over your head. This will deliver oxygen to you. If you are at high risk for oxygen toxicity, you may be allowed to breathe regular air for brief periods.

Immediately After Hyperbaric Therapy

Over a period of several minutes, the technician will slowly depressurize the hyperbaric chamber. You will likely have some ear popping and feel light-headed and tired. However, you should be able to go back to your daily activities. You may have more than one session over a period of several days.

Hyperbaric Oyxgen Therapy Treatment Length

½ hour to 2 hours

Average Hospital Stay

Unless you have another medical condition, you will be able to go home after hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Post-Procedure Care

In most cases, there is no special care after hyperbaric treatment. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Discomfort or pain in your sinuses or ears
• Onset of seizures
• Vision problems
• Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

In case of an emergency, CALL 911.