What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is an advanced form of treatment that uses pure oxygen delivered in a special pressurized chamber. Although the concept may seem simple, the therapy's mechanism of action is complex and fascinating, based on sound physiological principles and backed by extensive clinical research.

How does it work?

The therapy involves the patient breathing 100% oxygen in an airtight room in which the atmospheric pressure is increased above normal - usually between 1.4 and 2.4 atmospheres absolute (ATA). This increase in pressure allows oxygen to dissolve much more efficiently in the plasma (the liquid component of blood), rather than just being transported by hemoglobin as in normal conditions.

As a result, significantly more oxygen reaches all tissues of the body, including those affected by inflammation, ischemia (lack of oxygen) or trauma. This promotes cell regeneration, fights infection and reduces edema (swelling).

What happens during a meeting?

A standard therapy session takes about 90 minutes of actual exposure to oxygen, plus pressurization and depressurization time, for a total duration of about two hours. The patient lies comfortably on a bed in a hyperbaric chamber and the entire procedure is constantly monitored by specialized medical staff.

At the beginning of the session, you may feel a slight pressure in your ears, similar to the sensation during take-off. This is normal and temporary, and the staff provide instructions on how to balance the pressure.

What effects does it have at cellular level?

Hyperbaric oxygen stimulates a number of extremely beneficial biological mechanisms. Among the most important are:

• Stimulating the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), which helps oxygenate damaged areas.
• Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which play a major role in the recovery process.
• Stimulation of collagen synthesis and regeneration of soft tissue and bone.
• Increase the body's ability to fight bacterial infections.

Is it a safe therapy?

Yes, when administered correctly, the therapy is safe and well tolerated. Specialized centers follow strict international protocols and the indications and duration of treatment are determined on an individual basis, according to the patient's needs and medical recommendations.

Conclusion

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is much more than "breathing oxygen". It is a complex therapeutic method with proven effects on healing and regeneration. Used correctly, within well-established protocols, it can make the difference in the therapeutic journey of many patients.

For those who want to find out more, we invite you to follow the work of the Association for Baromedical Research and Development and contact us for additional resources.

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"Hyperbaric therapy is not just a breath of fresh air. It's a promise of healing where conventional medicine stops."