What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment where you breathe 100% oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in your blood plasma, allowing for enhanced oxygen delivery to all tissues and organs in the body. The increased oxygen concentration promotes healing, fights infection, and supports overall well-being. Think of it as supercharging your body's natural healing processes.

Why is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Performed?

HBOT is used to treat a variety of conditions where tissues are oxygen-deprived. It's all about getting more oxygen where it's needed most. Here's a breakdown of common applications:

• Non-Healing Wounds: HBOT can be highly effective for chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, bedsores, and radiation-induced wounds that haven't responded to conventional treatments. The increased oxygen promotes new blood vessel formation and tissue repair.

• Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A significant concern in India, diabetic foot ulcers often suffer from poor circulation and oxygen supply. HBOT can significantly improve healing rates and reduce the risk of amputation.

• Severe Infections: HBOT can help fight severe infections like necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating bacteria) and osteomyelitis (bone infection) by enhancing the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria and promoting tissue repair.

• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: HBOT is a crucial treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning. It rapidly removes carbon monoxide from the blood and restores normal oxygen levels.

• Decompression Sickness (The Bends): Divers who ascend too quickly can develop decompression sickness. HBOT helps to dissolve nitrogen bubbles in the blood and tissues, relieving the symptoms.

• Gas Embolism: Air bubbles in the bloodstream can cause serious complications. HBOT helps to reduce the size of the bubbles and restore blood flow.

• Radiation Injuries: HBOT can help heal tissues damaged by radiation therapy, such as radiation proctitis (inflammation of the rectum) and radiation cystitis (inflammation of the bladder).

• Other Potential Applications: Emerging research in India and globally suggests potential benefits in areas like:

  • Sports Recovery: HBOT may help athletes recover faster from injuries by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
  • Anti-Aging: Some proponents believe that HBOT can help slow down the aging process by increasing oxygen levels and reducing oxidative stress.
  • Neurological Illnesses: There is growing interest in using HBOT for neurological conditions like stroke, cerebral palsy, and traumatic brain injury, although more research is needed.
  • Severe COVID-19: Studies have shown HBOT enhances tissue oxygenation, reduces inflammation, and modulates oxidative stress, improving clinical outcomes.

HBOT works by:

• Increasing Oxygen Delivery: Raising the amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood plasma, leading to significantly higher oxygen levels in tissues.
• Promoting New Blood Vessel Formation (Angiogenesis): Stimulating the growth of new blood vessels, which improves circulation and nutrient delivery to damaged tissues.
• Reducing Inflammation: Decreasing inflammation, which can hinder healing.
• Fighting Infection: Enhancing the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria and fight infection.
• Mobilizing Stem Cells: Supporting the release of stem cells, which can help repair damaged tissues.
• Neutralizing Toxins: Eliminating harmful toxins from the body, improving overall health.
• Strengthening the Immune System: Boosting the body's natural defenses.

Preparation for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Before undergoing HBOT, it's important to be well-prepared. Here's what you can expect:

• Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: This is the most crucial step. Your doctor will evaluate your condition, review your medical history, and determine if HBOT is appropriate for you. They will also discuss the potential risks and benefits.

• Physical Examination: A physical exam may be performed to assess your overall health and identify any potential contraindications.

• Medication Review: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Some medications may interfere with HBOT.

• Ear Examination: Your ears will be examined to ensure you can equalize pressure during the treatment.

• Clothing: You'll typically be asked to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing made of cotton. Avoid synthetic fabrics, as they can create static electricity.

• Personal Items: You may be asked to remove jewelry, watches, and other personal items before entering the chamber.

• Hearing Protection: You may be provided with earplugs or other hearing protection to help equalize pressure in your ears during the treatment.

• No Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited before and during HBOT. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and reduces oxygen delivery to tissues.

• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol should be avoided for at least 24 hours before HBOT.

• Diet: Maintain a normal diet and stay hydrated.

• Specific Instructions: Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions based on your individual needs. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully.

• Claustrophobia Assessment: If you have a history of claustrophobia, discuss it with your doctor. They may prescribe medication to help you relax during the treatment.

The Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Procedure

The HBOT procedure is generally straightforward and well-tolerated. Here's what you can expect:

1. Entering the Chamber: You will enter a special chamber, which can be either a monoplace chamber (for one person) or a multiplace chamber (for multiple people).

   • Monoplace Chamber: This is a clear, acrylic chamber where you lie down comfortably.
   • Multiplace Chamber: This is a larger, room-like chamber where you can sit or lie down.

2. Pressurization: Once you are inside the chamber, it will be gradually pressurized to 1.5 to 3 times normal air pressure. This may feel similar to the pressure you experience when flying in an airplane.

3. Oxygen Delivery: While the chamber is pressurized, you will breathe 100% oxygen through a mask, hood, or endotracheal tube (in some cases).

4. Oxygen Absorption: The increased pressure allows your lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen than at normal pressure, leading to a 10 to 15-fold increase in oxygen levels in your tissues. In one hour of HBOT, the body absorbs around 2.4 pounds of oxygen into the tissue.

5. Equalizing Pressure: During the pressurization phase, you may need to equalize the pressure in your ears by swallowing, yawning, or performing the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose and gently blowing).

6. Treatment Duration: Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes. Treatment time can vary from 45 to 300 minutes depending upon the condition. Acute conditions may need 1-2 sessions, while chronic conditions may require 30 or more. Some patients may have up to 3 sessions a day, depending on their condition.

7. Monitoring: Throughout the treatment, you will be closely monitored by trained medical personnel.

8. Relaxation: You can relax, read, watch TV, or listen to music during the treatment.

9. Decompression: After the treatment, the chamber will be slowly depressurized.

10. After the Session: You may feel slightly tired or lightheaded after the session. This is usually temporary.

Understanding Results

The results of HBOT vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient. Here's a general overview of what you can expect:

• Improved Wound Healing: HBOT can significantly improve the healing of chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, bedsores, and radiation-induced wounds. You may notice a reduction in wound size, improved tissue granulation, and decreased pain.

• Reduced Infection: HBOT can help fight severe infections by enhancing the ability of white blood cells to kill bacteria. You may experience a decrease in fever, pain, and inflammation.

• Faster Recovery from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: HBOT can rapidly remove carbon monoxide from the blood and restore normal oxygen levels, leading to a faster recovery from carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Relief from Decompression Sickness: HBOT can help to dissolve nitrogen bubbles in the blood and tissues, relieving the symptoms of decompression sickness.

• Improved Neurological Function: In some cases, HBOT may improve neurological function in conditions like stroke and cerebral palsy. However, more research is needed in this area.

• Increased Energy and Endurance: Athletes may experience increased energy and endurance after HBOT.

• Reduced Inflammation: HBOT can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can improve overall health and well-being.

• New Blood Vessel Formation: HBOT promotes new blood vessel formation, which is essential for repairing damaged tissues and boosting circulation.

• Neutralized and Eliminated Toxins: HBOT neutralizes and eliminates harmful toxins from the body, improving overall health.

• Strengthened Immune System: HBOT strengthens the immune system, making the body more resistant to infection.

It's important to note that HBOT is not a magic bullet. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments, such as antibiotics, surgery, and wound care.

Possible Risks:

While HBOT is generally safe, there are some potential risks:

• Ear Problems: Pressure changes in the chamber can cause ear pain, discomfort, and, in rare cases, eardrum rupture.
• Sinus Congestion: Sinus congestion and headaches are also possible.
• Temporary Vision Problems: Temporary vision problems, such as nearsightedness, can occur.
• Central Nervous System Disorders: Seizures are a rare but serious complication.
• Lung Collapse: Lung collapse is a very rare complication.
• Oxygen Toxicity: Oxygen toxicity is rare with proper administration.
• Claustrophobia: Some people may experience claustrophobia in the chamber.
• Pregnancy: HBOT is not recommended for pregnant women.
• Untreated Pneumothorax: Individuals with untreated pneumothorax should not undergo HBOT.
• Active Cancer: HBOT may not be suitable for those actively fighting cancer.

Costs in India

The cost of HBOT in India is generally lower compared to many other countries. However, the price can still vary depending on several factors:

• Location: The cost of HBOT may be higher in major metropolitan areas compared to smaller cities or rural areas.
• Clinic: The cost of HBOT may vary depending on the clinic or hospital offering the treatment.
• Equipment Used: Clinics using more advanced equipment may charge higher prices.
• Number of Sessions: The total cost of HBOT will depend on the number of sessions required.
• Condition Being Treated: The cost may vary depending on the complexity of the condition being treated.

As a general estimate, the cost per session can range from $100 to $200 USD (approximately ₹8,315.35 to ₹16,630.70 as of October 20, 2025). A full course of treatment can therefore range from ₹249,460.50 to ₹498,921.00 or more, depending on the number of sessions required.

It's important to note that HBOT may not be covered by all insurance plans in India. Check with your insurance provider to determine if HBOT is covered under your policy.

A cost-utility analysis in India found that standard wound care plus HBOT for diabetic foot ulcers was not cost-effective. This highlights the importance of carefully considering the cost-effectiveness of HBOT in the Indian context.

How Ayu Helps

Ayu empowers you to manage your medical records securely and efficiently. Consult with your doctor, upload your HBOT reports, and track your progress all in one convenient app.

FAQ

Q1: Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy painful?

No, HBOT is generally not painful. You may experience some discomfort in your ears during the pressurization phase, similar to the feeling you get when flying in an airplane. However, this can usually be relieved by swallowing, yawning, or performing the Valsalva maneuver.

Q2: How many HBOT sessions will I need?

The number of HBOT sessions you will need depends on your condition and how you respond to treatment. Some conditions may require only a few sessions, while others may require 30 or more.

Q3: Are there any side effects of HBOT?

HBOT is generally safe, but some potential side effects include ear problems, sinus congestion, temporary vision problems, and, in rare cases, seizures or lung collapse.

Q4: Who should NOT undergo HBOT?

HBOT is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with untreated pneumothorax, or those actively fighting cancer.

Q5: Is HBOT covered by insurance in India?

HBOT may not be covered by all insurance plans in India. Check with your insurance provider to determine if HBOT is covered under your policy.

Q6: How do I find a qualified HBOT provider in India?

Ask your doctor for a referral to a qualified HBOT provider. You can also search online for HBOT centers in your area. Make sure the provider is certified and has experience treating your specific condition.

Q7: Can HBOT cure my condition?

HBOT can be a very effective treatment for certain conditions, but it is not a cure-all. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments to improve outcomes.

Q8: What should I do if I experience side effects during or after HBOT?

Tell the medical personnel immediately if you experience any side effects during the treatment. If you experience side effects after the treatment, contact your doctor.