Most people are familiar with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) as a treatment for “the bends” in scuba divers, however, HBOT has been used since the 1800’s to help the body heal from various other conditions. Technology has come a long way since the 1800’s, but at its core, the goals of HBOT remain very much the same.
Oxygen is essential for the human body to function and heal. Typically, when our bodies are injured, the damaged tissue becomes deficient in Oxygen. With this decrease, cells do not function properly and bodily functions decline. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy consists of breathing 100% Oxygen (as opposed to the normal 21% we breathe in regular air) at a prescribed atmospheric depth, for a prescribed period of time.
The pressure created in the chamber saturates the tissues of the body, optimizing oxygen delivery. Studies have conclusively shown that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is tremendously successful with helping the body heal, reducing inflammation, and improving functionality.
Currently, HBOT is most commonly found in a hospital setting, with an uncomfortable, aged, often single occupant Hyperbaric chamber. Coastal HyperbaRx is proud to offer the same benefits of inpatient HBOT, with the convenience of an outpatient setting and the gold standard in Hyperbaric chambers.
How does HBOT Work?
Most people are familiar with the pressure that occurs when diving underwater. These pressure increases have been shown to improve oxygen flow into parts of the body that couldn’t receive therapeutic levels otherwise. The creation of Hyperbaric chambers in the 1800’s allowed patients to receive the benefits of oxygenated pressure, with the convenience of staying on land.
As the patient sits in a hyperbaric chamber, pressure in the chamber is gradually increased to the proper therapeutic levels. This increased pressure allows oxygen to permeate through all fluids, muscle, tissue, fat, and bone throughout the entire body. HBOT is safe, non-invasive, painless, and has been shown to work at the mitochondrial level to “kick start” functionality. It has also been shown to:
– Create new blood vessels (a process called angiogenesis)
– Stimulate new capillary growth
– Improve neuroplasticity
– Increase stem cell mobilization by 800%
– Decrease inflammation and lactic acid
– Increase white blood cell production
– Enhance the ability for white blood cells to carry away “bad” bacteria and debris (Leukocyte activity)
– Decrease surgery complications
– Improve bone regeneration for faster recovery
– Reduce swelling
– Increase the production of collagen
Common Uses for HBOT
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is appropriate for many different health healing goals, for both FDA approved and off label ailments. You can read more about on and off label conditions on our services page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What type of chamber will I be in?
Coastal HyperbaRx uses a certified FDA 510K, multiplace hyperbaric chamber meaning more than one person can and will dive with you. Our chamber boasts the same high safety standards as those used in hospitals and military facilities, while going above and beyond current standards in comfort and customization.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This therapy increases the amount of oxygen in your blood, which can accelerate the healing process for various conditions by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
Is HBOT safe?
Like any medical treatment, HBOT does carry some risks, such as barotrauma (injury caused by pressure changes) most commonly to the ears, oxygen toxicity, and claustrophobia. However, these are extremely rare and can often be mitigated with proper care.
Although all medical treatments come with some risk, Coastal HyperbaRx aims to successfully mitigate any potential negative reaction by using a state-of-the-art Hyperbaric chamber with an open design, and expert clinical staff, as well as offering a pre-dive physical to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.
How long does a typical HBOT session last?
A typical HBOT session lasts between 60 and 120 minutes. The exact duration depends on the condition being treated and the specific protocol being followed.
Can I drive after my HBOT session?
Yes, most patients can resume normal activities, including driving, immediately after their HBOT session. However, it’s always best to consult with your referring physician about your specific circumstances.
Will insurance cover HBOT?
Insurance coverage for HBOT depends on your insurance provider and the condition being treated. HBOT is generally covered for FDA-approved conditions but may not yet be covered for off-label uses. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific details. Our staff can assist with this process, and payment arrangements can be made for treatments not covered by health insurance.
What should I wear during the session?
You should arrive to your visit without makeup, nail polish, hair products, and skin lotions.
After check in for your visit, you’ll be asked to change into 100% cotton scrubs to minimize the risk of static electricity. Jewelry, watches, and electronic devices should be left outside the chamber. All belongings will be stored safely in individual lockers, provided at your visit.
What does it feel like inside the chamber?
As the chamber pressurizes, you may feel a sensation similar to what you experience during an airplane takeoff, such as ear popping. The session itself is usually comfortable, and you can relax, read, or even sleep during the treatment. iPads are available for movies.
How does HBOT promote healing?
Oxygen is required for the human body to heal, however, we don’t regularly get enough of it.
By increasing oxygen levels in the blood, HBOT helps to enhance tissue repair, reduce inflammation, fight infections, and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels, all of which contribute to faster healing.
Common Myths About HBOT
Myth 1: HBOT is only for divers.
Fact: While HBOT is well-known for treating decompression sickness in divers, it is also used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including chronic wounds, radiation injuries, infections, and even prior stroke, along with many neurological indicators.
Myth 2: HBOT is a miracle cure for all ailments.
Fact: HBOT is a powerful therapy for certain conditions, but it is not a cure-all. Its effectiveness varies depending on the condition being treated and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Myth 3: The high pressure in the chamber is dangerous.
Fact: HBOT is administered in a controlled environment by trained professionals. The pressure used is safe and tailored to the patient’s condition, minimizing risks.
Myth 4: You can get the same benefits by breathing oxygen at home.
Fact: The benefits of HBOT come from the combination of high pressure and 100% oxygen. Breathing oxygen at normal atmospheric pressure does not provide the same therapeutic effects.
Myth 5: All hyperbaric chambers are the same
Fact: Soft shell, non-FDA approved chambers do not provide the same therapeutic depths or results, nor do they have the same rigorous safety requirements.
Myth 6: HBOT is too expensive and not worth the cost.
Fact: While HBOT can be costly, many insurance plans cover the treatment for approved conditions. Coastal HyperbaRx is also proud to offer payment arrangements for any condition not covered by insurance. In short, the benefits of faster healing and reduced complications can make HBOT a valuable investment in your health.
Myth 7: HBOT is uncomfortable and claustrophobic.
Fact: While most traditional chambers are enclosed, it is spacious enough to allow for comfort. Many patients report feeling relaxed during the session, and any discomfort from pressure changes is temporary and manageable. Coastal HyperbaRx has taken this a step further by offering a multiplace chamber with an open design and personalized entertainment options. This custom design far exceeds chambers found in a hospital setting.
Myth 8: HBOT is a new, unproven therapy.
Fact: HBOT has been used medically for over a century and is backed by extensive research and clinical studies. It is a well-established treatment in both emergency and chronic care settings.
Research/What the Science says:
Origins of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A Brief History and Review of its Benefits and Indications for the Older Adult Patient
Therapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen: Integrated review
HBOT effectiveness: In a famous “Life Without Blood” experiment in 1960, Dr. Ite Boerema demonstrated that hyperbaric oxygen alone kept exsanguinated pigs alive in the absence of hemoglobin.
PDF Coming Soon
A General Overview on the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Applications, Mechanisms and Translational Opportunities
Hyperbaric Therapy for Wound Healing
HBOT grafts and flaps
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the management of crush injuries: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment in radiation-induced cystitis and proctitis: a prospective cohort study on patient-perceived quality of recovery
Oxygen therapy in the long-term treatment of Meniere’s disease
Hyperbaric Treatment of Thermal Burns
Hyperbaric Therapy in Blood Loss Anemia
Hyperbaric Treatment of Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis
Hyperbaric Oxygen for Osteomyelitis in a Compromised Host
Evidence-Supported HBO Therapy in Femoral Head Necrosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Hyperbaric Oxygen Effects on Sports Injuries
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy in children with post-concussion syndrome improves cognitive and behavioral function: a randomized controlled trial
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves neurocognitive functions of post-stroke patients – a retrospective analysis
Hyperbaric Medicine and Cancer
Impact of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Cognitive Functions: A Systematic Review (Dementia)
Case control study: hyperbaric oxygen treatment of mild traumatic brain injury persistent post-concussion syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD / neurological)
Hyperbaric Medicine and Autism
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy/
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Review of Clinical Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A New Treatment for Chronic Pain?
A Review of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy compared to pharmacological intervention in fibromyalgia patients following traumatic brain injury: A randomized, controlled trial
Stem cell mobilization by hyperbaric oxygen