Healing with Oxygen

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that enhances the body's natural healing process by delivering high concentrations of oxygen to tissues that are starved for oxygen. This therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, which allows for higher levels of oxygen to be dissolved in the blood plasma and delivered to tissues throughout

the body.

I discovered Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) while researching treatment options for Lyme disease. Research indicates that HBOT is beneficial for people with Lyme disease because the bacteria responsible for the disease cannot survive in environments with higher-than-normal oxygen levels.

How Does HBOT Work?

During HBOT, patients are placed in a hyperbaric chamber—a pressurized room or tube where the air pressure is increased to three times higher than normal atmospheric pressure. This increased pressure allows the lungs to take in much more oxygen than would be possible under normal conditions. The oxygen-rich blood can then deliver a greater amount of oxygen to tissues, promoting healing and combating infection.

My HBOT Journey

My first experience with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) was in a small solo inflatable chamber. These devices are popular among athletes and individuals who want the convenience of home treatment. Each session typically lasts about an hour, during which you lie in the chamber and breathe oxygen through a mask. The downside of these smaller chambers is that they can only reach a pressure of 1.3 ATA and deliver 24% oxygen.

Despite this limitation, I found that several sessions in the small chamber improved my symptoms. I was eager to try a larger, solid shell chamber, which uses 100% oxygen and can reach pressures of up to 3.0 ATA. The higher pressure makes the treatment more effective. Fortunately, I found a nearby facility with such a chamber. These larger chambers are equipped with seats and can accommodate up to eight people.

At the increased pressure, I did experience a Herxheimer reaction the next day, but it was manageable. Initially, I attended sessions once or twice a week. I tried three sessions a week at one point but found it to be too much for me.

If you are considering HBOT, most centers offer a trial session at a lower pressure to determine if the treatment is suitable for you. After the trial, you will likely be referred to a nurse who will recommend a treatment plan based on your condition. It was suggested that I undergo twenty sessions as close together as possible, but I found that to be overwhelming. To avoid a Herxheimer reaction, it's best to gradually increase the number of sessions.

Conditions Treated by HBOT

HBOT is used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including:

1. Decompression Sickness: Often experienced by divers who ascend too quickly, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the blood and tissues.

2. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: HBOT helps remove carbon monoxide from the blood more quickly than breathing normal air.

3. Non-Healing Wounds: Particularly diabetic foot ulcers, where enhanced oxygenation promotes healing and prevents infections.

4. Radiation Injuries: Tissue damage caused by radiation therapy can be mitigated by improving oxygen supply to the affected areas.

5. Severe Anemia: In cases where blood transfusions are not possible, HBOT can temporarily provide sufficient oxygen to tissues.

6. Chronic Infections: Conditions such as osteomyelitis (bone infection) where enhanced oxygenation can help fight persistent bacteria.

Benefits of HBOT

The therapeutic benefits of HBOT include:

• Enhanced Wound Healing: Increased oxygen levels boost the body's ability to repair tissue damage and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels.

• Reduced Swelling and Inflammation: Oxygen-rich environments help to reduce edema and inflammation, promoting faster recovery.

• Improved Immune Response: Higher oxygen levels enhance the function of white blood cells, helping the body fight infections more effectively.

• Detoxification: HBOT aids in the removal of toxins such as carbon monoxide and supports the body's overall detoxification processes.

I've been undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for four years, and it has played a crucial role in my recovery from Lyme disease. The increased oxygen levels have not only weakened and killed the Lyme bacteria but also facilitated my body's healing from the damage caused by the disease.

If you're interested in trying HBOT, there are many centers available in the UK. Facilities for individuals with multiple sclerosis often have HBOT chambers, as the therapy has been shown to delay the progression of the disease.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The website owners and contributors are not responsible for any consequences resulting from the use of the information provided.