Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a non-evasive treatment administered through a pressurized room or tube, that aims to promote the body’s natural healing processes. The amount of oxygen is increased quickly so that patients take in more oxygen, which is then transported through red blood cells disolving into their body fluids and bones. The increased intake of oxygen reaches new areas that have limited circulations and damage tissues which strengthen white blood cells, that protect the body from infection and unwanted bacteria. The added oxygen also promotes the generation of stem cells, which accelerates the natural heal process.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy requires patients to spend a significant amount of time inside the therapy chamber for the best results. Below, we list some things that patients can do, to make the experience more relaxing for them.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can be administered in a single chamber where one person is treated at a time or a combined chamber where several patients can be treated at the same time. A session usually takes up to two hours but can be longer depending on the condition being treated. During this time patients can:
– Read a book or magazine (combined chamber only) – Bring cards (combined chamber only) – Watch a movie on the equipment provided by the facility – Listen to music – Take a nap
While this is not an exhaustive list, it can help you come up with things that you may like to do during treatment. However, it is also important to know the things that you can’t bring into a chamber, so that you can make appropriate decisions, on what you pack for your session. Things you cannot bring: – Flammable materials ( matches, lighters, cigarettes) – Electronics such as cellphones, watches, and hearing aids – Oil-based or petroleum products such as lipstick, nail polish, and lotions – Synthetic materials such as nylon or rayon – Hot pads – Food
Some things to Keep in Mind Because treatment can take several hours, and food is not allowed inside any of the chambers, it is always recommended that you eat a filling healthy meal beforehand.
In addition, due to the high atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels in the chambers, you’re given special cotton clothing specifically made to wear inside them, so it is recommended that you have on clothes that you can easily change in and out of. You should also leave any valuables a home, or in your car so that you don’t have to worry about hem during treatment. If you wear contacts, you should bring glasses or your lens case with you so that you can remove them before entering the chamber.
If you or someone you know is interested in Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, contact us at Ontario HBOT Burn Healing for more information.