What is the Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber
HBOT has been around for awhile however, it has become increasingly more popularized recently. It has been shown to increase the absorption of oxygen by 50% while lying in the chamber which then can last up to 4-5 hours afterwards. It works by using oxygen in a pressurized environment, at a level higher than 1 atmosphere absolute (ATA). Increased pressure allows for oxygen to dissolve and saturate the blood plasma, which yields a broad variety of positive physiological, biochemical and cellular effects. HBOT has been demonstrated in several clinical studies to enhance the body’s innate ability to repair and regenerate. Studies show that 20 visits can reverse PTSD, Brain damage/trauma by 70% and 40 visits can reverse them by 90%.
HOW DOES A HYPERBARIC CHAMBER HELP?
HBOT helps wound healing by bringing oxygen-rich plasma to tissue starved for oxygen. Wound injuries damage the body’s blood vessels, which release fluid that leaks into the tissues and causes swelling. This swelling deprives the damaged cells of oxygen, and tissue starts to die.
HBOT reduces swelling while flooding the tissues with oxygen. HBOT aims to break the cycle of swelling, oxygen starvation, and tissue death
HBOT prevents “reperfusion injury.” This is the severe tissue damage that happens when the blood supply returns to the tissues after they have been deprived of oxygen. This is when the damage cells release free radicals. Free radicals damage the tissues that can’t be reversed. They cause the blood vessels to clamp up and stop blood flow HBOT encourages the body’s oxygen radical scavengers to seek out the problem molecules and let healing continue.
HBOT helps block the action of harmful bacteria and strengthens the body’s immune system. HBOT can disable the toxins of certain bacteria. It also increases oxygen concentration in the tissues. This helps them resist infection. In addition, the therapy improves the ability of white blood cells to find and destroy invaders.
HBOT encourages the formation of new collagen and new skin cells. It does so by encouraging new blood vessel to grow. It also stimulates cells to produce certain substances, like vascular endothelial growth factor. These attract and stimulate endothelial cells needed for healing.
***Precautions: It shouldn’t be used by people who have had a recent ear surgery or injury, a cold or fever, or certain types of lung disease. The most common complication after HBOT is trauma to the middle ear. Other possible complications are eye damage, lung collapse, low blood sugar, and sinus problems.