How to Prepare for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatment
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment may seem scary, but with the right information, you can feel more comfortable going in for treatment. Here is some basic information about hyperbaric oxygen treatments, and things to know before you go in for treatment.
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment? It’s a medical treatment that enhances the body’ natural healing process by inhalation of 100% oxygen in a total body chamber, where atmospheric pressure is increased and controlled. This enables all the body’s fluids to any damaged tissues that require extra oxygen to heal.
What are the benefits? Hyperbaric oxygen therapy benefits the healing process. The body requires oxygen to heal, and in many conditions, oxygen is unable to reach the damaged area. Hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy provides extra oxygen to heal these areas, with minimal side effects.
How should I prepare for hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment? A lot of consideration needs to be given to your dressing and grooming the day of a treatment. Only clean cotton clothing is allowed in the hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber. No cosmetics, perfumes, hair products, deodorants, wigs, or jewelry are allowed. This is because They don’t want to introduce any possible sparks or flammable materials into an oxygenated environment, for risk of fire or explosion.
Are there any side effects? The most common side effect is barotrauma to the ears and sinuses caused by the change in pressure. To reduce this risk, patients are taught techniques to alleviate pressure in their ears during treatment, and in particular cases, tubes are inserted into the ears. Occasionally some patients experience temporary vision changes during the treatment period. Get more here.