Introduction
When taking a holistic approach to healing from for chronic health conditions, using alternative therapies are wonderful addition to a healing protocol. One option is a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This therapy helps to increase cellular oxygen levels which helps the body heal from chronic diseases, detox, and strengthen all bodily functions by reducing inflammation.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
Oxygen is critical for the healing process. If we have low oxygen our bodies are in a state of physiological stress and cannot heal properly. We can enter states of decreased oxygen due to breathing difficulties, high altitude, or in the case of chronic conditions, high toxin load.
During an HBOT session, patients sit in a pressurized chamber and breathe in pure oxygen. While in the chamber, the lungs can absorb significantly more oxygen than normal in. The oxygen is then transported to damaged tissues to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cellular function. It can also help the immune system fight off infections.
Who Can Benefit from HBOT?
HBOT is being used and studied for a wide range of chronic health conditions, including:
- Long COVID
- chronic infections like lyme disease
- Mold toxicity
- Autoimmune diseases
- Neurological disorders (Stroke recovery, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s)
- Chronic pain conditions (Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome)
- Wound healing
- Post-concussion syndrome and brain injuries
- Radiation-induced tissue damage
- Patients with chronic breathing issues (Sleep apnea, deviated septum, COPD)
- Exercise recovery
Many of these conditions increase our need for oxygen or create an environment in which our cells cannot get enough oxygen to heal. Flooding the body and cells with oxygen helps our body heal from the cellular level.
“Hyperbaric oxygen is one of the best treatment modalities that instantly changes the direction of one’s health by lowering systematic inflammation ” – Jason Stone, Owner of Icelandic Fitness and Recovery
What to Expect in an HBOT Session
HBOT sessions are easy and relaxing! The process is simple:
- Sit or lies down in pressurized chamber
- Wait for the pressure in the chamber to increase to 1.5 to 3 times normal atmospheric pressure.
- Relax and breathe in the 100% oxygen. I like to read while I sit or lie in the chamber.
- After the session, pressure is gradually released, and you can exit the chamber
Most individuals require multiple sessions, depending on the condition being treated. For example, studies on long covid patients saw results with anywhere from 10 to 60 sessions over the course of 3 months. Some people experience minor discomfort from the pressure, like ears popping similarly to when on an airplane.
Where to get an HBOT session?
It’s important to choose a qualified HBOT location. Some locations advertise that they have an HBOT machine, but it is actually a mild-HBOT. Here are my trusted locations:
Boston
https://fivejourneys.com/hbot/?srsltid=AfmBOooL3gXMOPW-Kelrl1v4T7DEx9KGYfCek0R87w-D8hFrL6rPO-Mv
Denver
https://www.icelandicfitness.com/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy
Final Thoughts: Is HBOT Right for You?
Please check with you physician before starting HBOT Therapy to determine if it is a good fit for you. However, for most, HBOT is an easy, non-invasive treatment that shows potential in managing various chronic health conditions. By reducing inflammation, accelerating healing, and improving overall oxygenation, HBOT offers hope for those struggling with long-term health issues.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement regimen.
Sources:
HBOT & Long COVID: https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/14/4/438
HBOT Overview: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8465921
