Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?

Hyperbaric oxygenation therapy (HBOT) is a treatment which improves the body's natural healing process by the inhalation of 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The chamber is pressurized with ambient air to 1.75 ATA (1.75 x normal atmospheric pressure) The patient breathes 100% through a special clear breathing hood or mask. The oxygen level in the patient's blood stream is increased many times above normal, this helps control infections and promote healing in many different kinds of illness or injuries.

Under normal circumstances at sea level (1 ATA) we breathe 21% oxygen, which is transported throughout the body by red blood cells. With HBOT, oxygen is dissolved, due to the increased pressure, into all of the body's fluids, 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 local swelling and allows new blood vessels to grow more rapidly into the affected areas. It is a simple, non-invasive and painless treatment.

It has long been known that healing many areas of the body cannot take place without appropriate oxygen levels in the tissue. In many cases, such as in circulatory problems, in non-healing wounds and in strokes, adequate oxygen cannot reach the damaged area and the body's natural healing ability is unable to function properly. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can provide this needed extra oxygen naturally with minimal side effects.

What are the Benefits of HBOT?
Healing in many areas where the standard medications are not working. Many conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, closed head injuries, chronic fatigue and peripheral vascular disease (circulatory) have responded favorably.

When is HBOT not advisable?

	If a patient has upper respiratory infections, chronic sinusitis or sinus problems
	If a patient has a high fever
	If a patient has severe emphysema or other breathing problem
	If a patient has a lower than normal seizure threshold

What are the possible Side Effects of HBOT?

	Ear and sinus discomfort.
	Temporary worsening of near-sightedness (Myopia). It is important to remember this is temporary and vision typically returns to its pre-treatment level about six weeks after cessation of therapy.

What is the treatment like?

At our HOC Care Centers, patients enter either a multiplace (several people) or monoplace (single person) chamber. They are accompanied by an inside attendant who is well trained to help make your session as comfortable as possible. Once inside, pressure is gradually increased and patients then begin breathing pure oxygen for one hour either through a mask or an Amron clear breathing hood. During the session patients may read a book, magazine or just relax. A session usually lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes depending on how fast the chamber is pressurized and depressurized.

Only 100% cotton clothing is permitted inside the chamber. A set of 100% cotton pants and shirt are provided to the patient to be worn inside. Blankets are provided inside the chamber should the patients feel the need.

Patients are advised to not take carbonated drinks or alcohol for at least 4 hours prior to the treatment. Also they should not smoke during their program. Both these interfere with the body's ability to absorb oxygen. This would be an excellent time if you plan to quit smoking, as we have a program to rid the body of the chemical store of toxins that accumulate over the years.

No metal whatsoever is allowed inside the chamber - this includes watches, jewelry etc.... As well, patients must remove their shoes before the session.

What does the hyperbaric technician/attendant need to know from you?

	Please inform the attendant if: You experience a cold, flu symptoms, sinus or nasal congestion, or chest congestion
	There is a possibility you may be pregnant
	Your medications have changed
	You have skipped a meal prior to HBO treatment
	You are a diabetic and did not take your insulin prior to treatment
	You have any concerns or anxiety

Also, inform the attendant if the pressure is too great for your ears. Often, people experience difficulty adjusting to an increased atmospheric pressure. If your ears hurt, inform the attendant immediately and he/she can stop or slow down the rate of pressurization until you are comfortable.

Why haven't I heard of this?

While centers around the world are demonstrating excellent results with this hyperbaric oxygen therapy, most doctors are not yet familiar with the basic laws which apply to oxygen under pressure. It is a growing, yet not fully established subject in medical schools. There is a lack of information among doctors. It is characteristic of the medical profession to be conservative. If a doctor should become interested, he or she must spend a considerable amount of time and effort to search the medical literature and to educate themselves in a new field of medicine.