It is interesting to know that the oxygen you breathe for survival can also be effective in medical treatment. Well, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) entails breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber to promote healing and address various health concerns.
However, despite the proven benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy San Fernando Valley, there are still numerous misconceptions about the procedure. This article will provide insight into some common myths associated with this procedure and separate fact from fiction.
1. HBOT Has Negative Side Effects
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy does not have numerous negative side effects, and the associated risks are minor. This procedure’s most prevalent side effect is pressure in one’s ears. This pressure is akin to what you may experience when diving into a pool’s bottom.
Patients might also experience some fatigue and lightheadedness after the procedure. However, these effects are generally mild if your provider closely monitors the treatment duration, air pressure, and oxygen. Consult your specialist about any potential risks before your procedure.
2. HBOT Is Only for Scuba Drivers
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was initially utilized for treating decompression sickness. Decompression sickness occurs when scuba drivers come up from a dive overly fast. This condition happens once gases, like nitrogen, start bubbling in the blood.
For this reason, there is a common misconception that HBOT is only effective for scuba drivers. However, while people with decompression sickness can find relief in HBOT, it is not the only treatable condition. HBOT also effectively treats gas gangrene, burns, infections, and more.
3. HBOT Is Painful
This therapy should not be painful. Occasionally, the surge in pressure may result in some discomfort. However, the treatment will hardly cause pain if administered under a safe pressure level, which your specialist should follow and closely monitor.
If you experience discomfort during your HBOT procedure, inform your physician. Your specialist will ensure that you are comfortable and safe throughout the treatment by tweaking the compression rate or halting the treatment completely, if necessary.
4. HBOT Does Not Need A Prescription
Numerous people assume that because HBOT utilizes oxygen, which is naturally available in the air, it does not require a prescription. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognizes purified oxygen as a drug.
If you are considering an HBOT session, you should have your doctor write you a prescription. Your doctor will assess your unique concerns, risks, and other factors to determine if you are an eligible candidate.
5. HBOT Is Only Effective for Acute Conditions
Various acute conditions, like carbon monoxide poisoning, are treatable with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. However, these acute concerns are not the only ones that could benefit from this treatment.
Numerous chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, and chronic anemia can also benefit from HBOT. The only variation in utilizing HBOT for acute and chronic conditions is that the former requires lesser treatments, whereas the latter might require multiple sessions.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has gained popularity in rent years as a treatment for numerous health concerns. Unfortunately, as with any new thing, individuals do not clearly understand the procedure, which results in numerous myths and misconceptions.
Hopefully, you now understand what is true and what is not about HBOT. Discuss your unique concerns with your doctor to determine if you qualify for this procedure.
