Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps in healing, but is not suitable for all
HYDERABAD: Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu recently shared a bunch of pictures on Instagram on her 36th birthday and one picture shows her receiving therapy for her autoimmune condition, myositis where muscles become weak and painful. We speak to experts to decode the treatment.
HBOT is typically prescribed for various medical conditions. “HBOT increases the oxygen levels in the body’s tissues and organs. Under increased atmospheric pressure, the body can absorb higher amounts of oxygen, which aids in the healing process. The therapy is known to enhance the delivery of oxygen to areas with compromised blood flow, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration. HBOT is commonly used for conditions such as non-healing wounds, diabetic ulcers, radiation injury, and decompression sickness (the bends). It can also be beneficial in treating carbon monoxide poisoning, severe infections, certain types of brain injuries, and some neurological disorders,” Dr. Nitin Rathi, Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, Delhi.
During a hyperbaric oxygen therapy session, patients lie in a specially designed chamber while the pressure is gradually increased. They breathe pure oxygen through a mask or hood, which helps to saturate their tissues with oxygen. The therapy is administered by trained medical professionals who closely monitor the patient's response and adjust the treatment accordingly.
Do it right
If you want to make the most of the treatment it is firstly important that it is crucial to follow instructions carefully, such as avoiding certain medications or substances, fasting if necessary, or adhering to any dietary restrictions.
Dr. Akanksha Singh Cornuit, Founder, PROMED Aesthetics says, “Dress comfortably and avoid wearing any makeup, oils, or skincare products that may interfere with the treatment process. Drinking water can help optimize your body’s response to hyperbaric oxygen therapy. During the therapy, communicate any discomfort or concerns you may experience to the medical staff. They can adjust as needed and ensure your well-being throughout the procedure. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions typically last for an extended period, ranging from one to several hours. Consult with your healthcare provider to assess your specific condition, discuss the potential benefits and risks of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and provide personalized advice. Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, medications, allergies, or previous surgeries. To determine the suitability of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, it is crucial to consider an individual’s medical history, current health status, and specific condition to assess the risks and benefits of HBOT.
Providing a comprehensive medical history and discussing any existing medical conditions or medications is essential to make an informed decision. Also make sure you wear clothes that are loose and comfortable before going for the therapy. Make sure you avoid caffeinated or carbonated drinks before going for the session. It is advisable not to wear any cosmetics and also remove all metallic objects whether jewellery or watches.
There are risks
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) can offer therapeutic benefits for certain medical conditions. However, it is not suitable for everyone, and there are certain circumstances where it may be recommended to be avoided. There are several medical conditions that may contraindicate the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. “Patients with untreated or uncontrolled seizures, as well as those with a history of spontaneous pneumothorax (collapsed lung), may not be suitable candidates for HBOT. Additionally, individuals with severe congestive heart failure or certain types of untreated infections may require careful evaluation before considering this treatment.
Certain lifestyle factors or medical interventions may also make hyperbaric oxygen therapy unsuitable. For instance, patients who have
recently undergone ear or sinus surgery involving the placement of tubes may need to avoid HBOT temporarily. Similarly, individuals with a history of claustrophobia or severe anxiety may find the enclosed chamber environment challenging,” says Dr. Rathi.
Moreover, there are specific conditions where hyperbaric oxygen therapy is contraindicated, such as untreated pneumothorax, certain types of lung diseases (COPD), and pregnancy. Make sure to consult your doctor and then you can make the most of the treatment.
