FAQ's about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment which enhances the body's natural healing process by inhalation of oxygen in a total body chamber, where atmospheric pressure is increased and controlled. It is used for a wide variety of treatments usually as a part of an overall medical care plan. Under normal circumstances, oxygen is transported throughout the body only by red blood cells. With HBOT, oxygen is dissolved into all of the body's fluids, the plasma, the central nervous system fluids, the lymph, and the bone and can be carried to areas where circulation is diminished or blocked. In this way, extra oxygen can reach all of the damaged tissues and the body can support its own healing process. The increased oxygen greatly enhances the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria, reduces swelling and allows new blood vessels to grow more rapidly into the affected areas. It is a simple, non-invasive and painless treatment.
Is it Safe? Yes! The hyperbaric chamber uses filtered ambient air, so there is no risk of oxygen toxicity to the body even with regular use. The chamber can be depressurized and opened from the inside, once inside the chamber, both visual and verbal communication is possible with the outside with the use of an intercom system. Most people report a comfortable, relaxing experience and emerge from the chamber feeling refreshed. HBOT is non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical, and there are no dangerous side effects. How does it work? Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) consists of administering oxygen at greater than atmospheric (sea level) pressure in order to improve and correct certain acute and chronic health conditions. The underlying principle of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is quite simple: HBOT saturates the body and its tissues with oxygen so they can function properly.
Are there any side affects? No dangerous side effects have been reported with Mild Hyperbaric Therapy. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing for your first session in a chamber:
What can I expect to happen during my HBOT session? The chamber will seem smaller when deflated than it is when fully pressurized. Within one minute the chamber will inflate completely, allowing enough room for an adult to sit upright or lie fully extended. After the chamber inflates, it will begin to pressurize. This is the time when you may experience pressure in your ears. The easiest way to relieve any discomfort this may cause is to equalize your ears using one or more of the following methods:
How long does a HBOT session last? HBOT sessions typically last around 60 minutes. What can I do during my HBOT session?
Are there any reasons a person should NOT do HBOT? Yes. You should NOT go into the chamber if you are inebriated (drunk), if you have ear canal problems or an ear infection, or if you are experiencing flu or cold symptoms. Also please do not enter the chamber wearing perfume or cologne. We do have individuals who are sensitive to chemicals that might enter the chamber after you. What if I'm claustrophobic? A number of HBOT patients experience feelings of claustrophobia when confined in the hyperbaric chamber. To minimize this problem, we will teach you some simple relaxation techniques to help overcome feelings of anxiety during treatment and start with shorter treatment times. HBOT therapists also attempt to maintain communication with you throughout the procedure. How frequently will I need to have a HBOT session? We will make a recommendation for you based on your needs after an initial evaluation. How much does a HBOT session cost? Sessions vary in cost according to the package purchased. Please contact our office for more information. |
Disclaimer
Integrated Healthcare of Georgia Make No Claims That This Device Is Intended To Diagnose, Treat, Cure, or Prevent Any Disease.
Integrated Healthcare of Georgia Make No Claims That This Device Is Intended To Diagnose, Treat, Cure, or Prevent Any Disease.