During hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), patients inhale pure oxygen in a high-pressure setting. Typically, the chamber's pressure ranges from 1.5 to 3 times higher than standard atmospheric pressure.
HBOT made its debut in the United States in the early 1900s. It was subsequently adopted by undersea medicine experts to treat deep-sea divers with decompression sickness, also known as the bends.
Today, HBOT is utilized for a variety of conditions, including severe burns and carbon monoxide poisoning. However, as with any medical treatment, there are associated risks.
Our healthcare experts, to keep the procedure transparent, come up with this guide so all the patients have a basic understanding of hyperbaric therapy, risks, and side effects.
Learn about HBOT safety measures and potential side effects. Discover how to prepare for hyperbaric oxygen therapy and understand the risks involved to ensure a safe and effective treatment.
Hyperbaric Therapy Risks Explained
During HBOT, you lie on a table inside an enclosed chamber where you breathe oxygen while the pressure is gradually increased. The therapy sessions can last anywhere from 60 minutes to 3 hours depending on the medical condition treated. Due to the high pressure, some individuals might experience discomfort, such as ear pain or a popping sensation in the ears.
To avoid oxygen toxicity, short breaks during the therapy to breathe normal air may be necessary. This prevents the body's tissues from absorbing too much oxygen.
The oxygen dosage for each treatment should be personalized, taking into account your medical history, overall health, and age. This helps minimize the risk of side effects and complications.
Potential symptoms or side effects after HBOT may include fatigue and lightheadedness. More severe issues can include:
Possible severe side effects of HBOT include lung damage, fluid buildup or rupture of the middle ear, sinus damage, and changes in vision that cause nearsightedness or myopia. There is also a risk of oxygen poisoning, which can lead to lung failure, fluid in the lungs, or seizures.
However, these side effects are generally mild as long as the therapy does not exceed 2 hours and the chamber pressure remains less than three times the normal atmospheric pressure.
Who Should Avoid Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) isn't suitable for everyone. You should avoid HBOT if you:
Have specific lung conditions, due to a higher risk of lung collapse
Are experiencing a collapsed lung
Have a cold or fever
Have recently undergone ear surgery or sustained an ear injury
Are uncomfortable in confined spaces (claustrophobia)
HBOT safety measures: Precautions Alert!
To minimize the risk of side effects and complications from hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), it's crucial to receive treatment from certified and trained medical professionals. In Chicago, there is a limited number of certified HBOT centers and providers who have adequate training to operate them.
Ensure the healthcare provider overseeing your therapy has specialized training and adequate experience to provide HBOT service.
Potential Side Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can have several side effects, including:
Claustrophobia
Claustrophobia is an anxiety disorder that triggers an overwhelming and unreasonable fear of confined spaces.
Some Monoplace chambers are small and confined, which can trigger claustrophobia, leading to anxiety or panic attacks. Your healthcare provider may prescribe a mild sedative to help you stay calm during treatments
Middle Ear Injuries
Middle ear injuries can involve damage to the three tiny bones, known as ossicles, which play a crucial role in hearing. Possible injuries in Hyperbaric oxygen therapy include earaches, bleeding in the tensor tympani muscle, fluid buildup in the ears, or eardrum rupture.
Sinus Congestion
Sinus congestion occurs when the sinus cavities in your face become blocked. This can lead to discomfort in your head, including a stuffy nose, pain and pressure in your sinuses. Side effects of Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be postnasal drainage or a sinus headache.
Temporary Nearsightedness
Temporary nearsightedness, also known as transient myopia, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry for a short period.
In 20% to 40% of people who undergo at least 20 daily treatments, temporary nearsightedness may occur during HBOT, especially in those with diabetes or over the age of 65. Vision typically returns to normal after treatment ends.
Oxygen Poisoning
Rarely, oxygen toxicity can occur if too much oxygen is inhaled, causing coughing and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
Seizures
A seizure is a sudden surge of uncontrolled electrical activity between brain cells (neurons), resulting in temporary changes in muscle tone or movements (such as stiffness, twitching, or limpness), behaviours, sensations, or states of awareness.
In rare circumstances, seizures can occur during HBOT, presenting as convulsions, sensory disturbances, and fainting.
Important Note from Lakeshore Hyperbaric Center - Chicago
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a generally safe treatment for many conditions, with side effects typically being mild and temporary. The procedure is so relaxing that many people use the time for calming activities or even sleeping.
While some medical spas and alternative medicine centers offer HBOT for unapproved uses, it is crucial to undergo this therapy only from an experienced healthcare provider for a condition that is officially recognized and approved for treatment.
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