FAQ

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a medical treatment in which a person breathes 100% oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. The increased pressure allows more oxygen to dissolve into the blood and reach tissues throughout the body.

Simple Answer: HBOT helps deliver extra oxygen to areas that need healing.

HBOT is FDA-cleared for several medical conditions, including:

• Decompression sickness ("the bends")
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Certain non-healing wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers
• Radiation tissue injury
• Severe infections
• Air or gas embolism
• Certain burns

Common Off-Label Uses of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• Post-Concussion Syndrome
• Long COVID
• Stroke Recovery
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Parkinson's Disease
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic Migraines
• Lyme Disease (persistent symptoms)
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Sports Injury Recovery

Simple Answer: HBOT is used for specific medical conditions where extra oxygen can support healing.

Extra oxygen can:

• Support wound healing
• Reduce swelling in some tissues
• Help fight certain infections
• Stimulate the formation of new blood vessels
• Improve oxygen delivery to damaged tissues

Simple Answer: More oxygen helps the body's natural healing processes work more effectively.

You will sit or lie comfortably in a chamber while breathing oxygen. The chamber pressure gradually increases and later returns to normal at the end of the session.

Simple Answer: Most people relax, rest, read or journal.

No. HBOT is generally painless. Some people feel pressure in their ears, similar to what happens during airplane takeoff or landing.

Simple Answer: The most common sensation is ear pressure, not pain.

Most HBOT sessions last between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the condition being treated and the treatment plan prescribed by the healthcare provider.

Simple Answer: A typical session lasts about 1–2 hours.

The number of treatments varies widely depending on the medical condition. Some patients need only a few treatments, while others may require 20–40 or more sessions.

Simple Answer: Your doctor determines the number of treatments based on your specific condition.

HBOT is generally considered safe when performed under medical supervision. Like any medical treatment, it has potential risks and side effects.

Simple Answer: HBOT is safe for most people when provided by trained professionals.

Possible side effects may include:

• Ear discomfort or pressure
• Temporary vision changes
• Sinus discomfort
• Fatigue after treatment

Serious complications are rare but can occur. These will be discussed during your consult.

Simple Answer: Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Not everyone is a candidate. Certain medical conditions may require special evaluation before treatment. For example, an untreated collapsed lung (pneumothorax) is generally considered a contraindication to HBOT.

Simple Answer: A healthcare provider should evaluate whether HBOT is appropriate for you.